Snowblower sizing question?

[duke52]

I have a 2013 L3800 4WD hydro and am looking to buy a new 3point blower. I am 70 years old and realized last winter that I can no longer handle the 30 inch Ariens that I purchased a couple of years ago. I throws me around like a rag doll. My drive is 200 feet long by 15' wide concrete. I live in the upper peninsula of Michigan which is known for extreme winters. I have been looking at several different brands of blowers, however, I can't make up my mind to go with a 5' or 6' unit. I have narrowed my choice down to a WoodMax, which appears to be a decent blower for the price. If I place my order within the next week, the orange ones should be available by the end of September.

There are very few days that go by that I miss reading the great info that I have at my finger tips when I come to this great forum. I am looking forward to any information that you guys may be able to send my way.

Many thanks

 

[North Idaho Wolfman]

I personally would go with the 72"
and get either the hydraulic rotation, (if you have aux outlets on the back) or the electric option if you don't.
Mount some rear facing LED's
And if you don't have a cab, get a really good hood and goggles or some have even used a snowmobile helmet to keep blowing snow from freezing you out.

 

[RCW]

I'm with Wolfman at 6'. 15 feet is a wide drive, and your machine will handle a 6-footer.

Allows for 3 passes with overlap - center first, then both sides - done!

I also second the need for warm protection! Been there, done that!! BRRRR!!

 

[ShaunRH]

Does anyone without a Cab around here use heated suits? I'd let the alternator keep me warm!

I have a standard motorcycle helmet with a snowmobile visor screen. It's fogless and keeps my head toasty on really cold mornings (along with a handy scarf!).

 

[Grouse Feathers]

With only 200 ft of driveway I'm not sure if 5' or 6' makes a big difference. I would also consider storage and maneuverability, especially if you will be using it anywhere around the house and garage. You have been using a snowblower so you know what its like to be caught in the plume of snow. Its even worse when your in the tractor seat, the tractor plume will be bigger and you can't leave. You just have to sit and wait for the hydraulic or electric chute to slowly turn. As Wolfman said a cab is best and next is what ever you can come up with for protection.

 

[Humblebub]

I used my Gerbings heated liner last winter. Worked great. Have a cab now so will not need to use the coming winter.

 

[duke52]

Thanks guys for the quick replies. Just needed a little encouragement to get the ball rolling. Will be ordering the 6 footer on Friday.

 

[half_full]

Duke, please post your thoughts on working with Woodmaxx. I came to this forum to find opinions on this very company and product.
I called them yesterday and I received the same news on availability dates that you did.

 

[Diydave]

I use heated ATV gloves, keeps the fingers warm enough to grab the southern comfort bottle I use to keep my footies warm...