Snapper's 9528E is a beefed-up version of its entry-level, large-frame snow blower, the 8526E. This 9.5-hp model is ready for an arctic blast, offering the upgraded, cold-weather resistant Briggs & Stratton Intek OHV engine. This engine holds a full gallon of gasoline and will save you time that you might otherwise spend running for refills.

The 9528E clears a wide swath of snow with its wider-than-average clearing path of 28 inches; this guarantees far quicker clearance of a large driveway than the typical 22- to 26-inch clearing path. This model also makes good sense for clearing a small parking area for an office or business.

Six forward speeds and two reverse speeds give this machine the needed versatility to plow through just about anything. You won't find another machine in this range with more speeds, nor should you have need for them. The 9528E maneuvers around corners and back and forth to chop through deep drifts and the ends of plowed-in drives with ease.

The remaining features on this unit are identical to the smaller, 8.5-hp Snapper model. These include a 14-inch auger, a 4-blade steel impeller, electric start and 15.5-inch snow hog tires. Optional accessories include tire chains for extra traction, a headlight and a protective snow cab.

The Snapper 9528E makes a good choice for a snowy climate, a larger-than-average driveway or a situation where speed and reliability are of the utmost importance. Heavy and durable, this model weights in at 255 pounds. It costs about $250 more than the next smaller model, but the Snapper 9528E is desirable for its upgraded engine, heavy weight and large clearing path.


Pros: Twenty-eight-inch clearing path, cold-resistant Brigg & Stratton Intek engine
Cons: Large model to store, will set you back over $1000

Warranty
2 years