a blizzard of choices whentrying to select the right snowthrower. Do you need a single-stage or dual-stage? How about a manual start model, an electric start, auger-propelled or wheel-propelled? The good news is that doing your homework before you buy can melt away many of your concerns. Jennifer Thompson, snowthrower category manager for Murray, Inc.—a leading manufac- turer of outdoor power equipment—suggests asking the follow- ing questions when choosing a snowthrower: How large an area do you have to clear? The clearing path is the width of the path the snowthrower will clear in one Experts say as horsepower increases, so does a snow- thrower’s ability to quickly complete a snow removaljob. small area with a light amount of snow the single-stage snow- pass. The wider the clearing thrower would be best. But if you job can be completed. The engine with heavy, packed, high snow, width, the faster the snow removal size also makes a difference. As horsepower increases, so does the ability to quickly complete the snow removaljob. In addition, the wheel-pro- pelled drive systems on dual-stage models makeit easier to drive the snowthrower when large areas need to be cleared. How much snow do you get? Dual-stage snowthrowers, which feature powerful engines and maximum clearing widths, are recommended for heavy snowfall areas that typically get up to 22” of snow. Dual-stage models are ideal for moderate snowfall conditions as well. Up to 16” of snow is considered moderate. Single-stage snowthrowers are designed for light-use applications with up to 10” of snow. What options best fit your needs? If you are looking to clear a are looking to clear a large area the dual-stage snowthrower would be a betterfit. Murray, Inc., for example offers snowthrowers ranging from basic 12” electric snow shovels for light snow, all the way up to 33”, 12 horsepower, dual-stage designs, complete with a halogen headlight, sawtooth augers, dual single-hand control, remote chute reflection, and drift cutters. The company also offer two special features on their models. The Power2Steer feature allows the driver to turn easily without stopping or worrying about trigger controls. The other feature, Hydroautomatic drive, allows the driver to shift into different speeds—even reverse—without stopping or disengaging the clutch. To learn more, call 1-800-528- 5087 or visit the Web site at Wwww.murray.com.
