The Craftsman 88790 (which is available at Sears as model number 07188790000) is not the best snow blower, but it may be the best in its price range when it's on sale; normally offered at $1049, we found this big, burly machine for as little as $879.

We really like 88790's reliable 9-hp Tecumseh engine. Using the standard electric start, this engine fires up quickly, even in very cold weather. The 28-inch clearing path is a welcome feature as well. In this price range, we don't often find a machine that can clear such a wide swath of driveway in one pass.

What slows this model down a bit is its 21-inch intake height. Very heavy, deep, snow may enter the intake too quickly and overpower it. If this happens, you may need to slow down a bit or go over a deep, snow filled area more than once.

The Craftsman 88790 is equipped with a 12-inch serrated auger and a 12-inch impeller. They're not the largest components you'll find on a machine in this range, but they are sufficient for handling some fairly substantial snowfalls.

The chute control is located conveniently at your fingertips. With a 190-degree rotation, this chute can easily direct snow where you want it to go. The only complaint that we have is that occasionally, the chute might slip due to the vibration of the machine. This slippage can impact the direction in which the snow is being thrown.

Rugged tires serve this model well. At 16 inches, they are a bit larger than we those that see on many machines in this range. Occasionally, as we moved along, we noted some slippage in the wheels; this is a minor annoyance that serves to protect the engine. This slippage is most likely to occur when changing terrain, as from pavement to grass or gravel.

A headlight mounted between the handles is a convenient feature. It was especially welcome when we left the lighted driveway and headed down a long sidewalk with no street lighting.

As snow blowers go, this model is a good, value-priced choice for those who have to deal with frequent and heavy snowfall. For those in areas of light snowfall, the Craftsman 88790 may be overkill, but it's unlikely that it features anything that will get in the way to slow you down.


Pros: Clears a wide path, big, reliable engine, headlight
Cons: Chute may vibrate out of adjustment, wheels may slip in varying terrain

Warranty
2 years, limited