Q: How easy to assemble once received? by Jimmmy from New York on November 18, 2011
A: This is going to be extremely easy. The handle bars are going to come folded over the unit. You would want to fold them up and tighten the wing nuts. The other part would be attaching the chute, which you would just tighten down with a wrench. by Kriss, Product Expert
Q: CAN THE TORO 621 QZE MODEL38459 FIT IN THE BACK OF A SUV LIKE THE HONDA PILOT OR JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE? by Anonymous from New York on August 15, 2011
A: If you fold down the upper handle, any of the Toro single stage snow blowers will fit in the back of an SUV. The upper handle is easily folder down by simply loosening a knob on either side of the handle. by Kriss, Product Expert
Overall Rating
4.4
(Based on 51 Reviews)
Sort By
April 22, 2013
Richard
Toro Power Clear 418zr
This machine is fantastic. Light weight, easy to start, really throws the snow. The Toro Power Clear 418ZR takes less time to clear our 3 car drive way, corner lot sidewalks plus those of a neighbor. One storm left 8 inches of snow, the Toro Power Clear cleared it with ease. So glad my wife insisted this is what she wanted for her birthday. She has not used it but enjoys watching me.
March 18, 2013
Andy Castle Rock, CO
Smallest Made That Is Still Gas!
Just what the Doctor ordered. No wrestling this thing around and can handle 6 inches of snow easily. If there's more snow, take smaller bites. I'm usually done while everyone else is still getting theirs out. Pick it up with one hand.
March 09, 2013
Michael
Amazing Snow Blower
We bought this unit from Snow Blowers Direct for more than one hundred dollars less than our local big box store. It was shipped that day and arrived very quickly. We carry other snow blowers on our snow plow trucks. Once the salt/sand spreaders are installed on the trucks it takes two men to lift those snow blowers (more than one hundred pounds), over the side of our trucks. This made getting the blower in and out of the truck difficult, if the driver brought his girlfriend instead of another guy, to do the sidewalks and small driveways. This blower only weighs fifty pounds, The driver has no problem lifting this blower over the side of the truck by himself. Yesterday my son and his girlfriend used this blower to remove six inches of wet snow from seven walkways and four small driveways. My son kept calling me, telling me how amazingly fast this blower is and how little fuel it uses. If your looking for a light weight snow blower (fifty pounds) to put in the back of your snowplow truck or let your wife or kids do the driveway with it, this featherweight blower is amazing.
We bought this unit from Snow Blowers Direct for more than one hundred dollars less than our local big box store. It was shipped that day and arrived very quickly. We carry other snow blowers on our snow plow trucks. Once the salt/sand spreaders are installed on the trucks it takes two men to lift those snow blowers (more than one hundred pounds), over the side of our trucks. This made getting the blower in and out of the truck difficult, if the driver brought his girlfriend instead of another guy, to do the sidewalks and small driveways. This blower only weighs fifty pounds, The driver has no... more
March 06, 2013
Janet
Works Great. Just Little.
I picked this model because I needed to transport in an suv and I need to be able to lift it in myself. I can do both easily. It does a great job on lite snow, and we had 12 inches here yesterday, and it handled it well. I like not having to mix gas and oil. It is easy to fill with gas, and it's easy to see how much is left. I like the ease of controlling where the snow goes. It starts easily. For the money, I think it's a good deal. If you need to move a lot of snow fast, it's a little small, but for me, it does the job well and easily at a fraction of the price of larger snowblowers.
February 10, 2013
James East Northport, NY
Got It In 2 Days- Tested On 3 Feet Of Snow
Well she did it... it took a few hours, but it was 3 feet of snow. Push in, then ram, push and ram; above, then below.
It even cleared the end of the driveway which had almost 4 feet. I barely used the shovel.
She starts right up and goes to work.
February 09, 2013
Chris W. Hazel Park, MI
Good Little Unit
The order was placed around midnight on Feb 7th. It arrived at my home in S.E. Michigan at 3pm on the 8th. I did not pay for priority shipping. It took about 15 minutes to put the handle and deflector on and fill the oil (included). I had 4" of wet snow waiting in the driveway.
It seems sturdy and well made. It moved the snow well. Depending on how the deflector is angled, I got good distance. I did bog the motor in the street with real deep, wet snow. If you let the blower do the work, its fine. It's not under-powered , but a little bigger motor would be nice.
You need to learn how to use this unit. The wheels need to be off the ground. The unit pulls itself forward on the scraper bar. If you push it, it will leave snow. It's super easy to pull start. The engine spins easily.
Overall it's a decent unit. Its does a respectable job and is surprisingly quiet. The order process was super quick.- I rather enjoyed getting a new snow blower during a snow storm!
I have a typical single family home, with a single car driveway, about 70' long; and a standard width sidewalk, approximately 45' long. It took about 35 minutes to do it all.
The order was placed around midnight on Feb 7th. It arrived at my home in S.E. Michigan at 3pm on the 8th. I did not pay for priority shipping. It took about 15 minutes to put the handle and deflector on and fill the oil (included). I had 4" of wet snow waiting in the driveway.
It seems sturdy and well made. It moved the snow well. Depending on how the deflector is angled, I got good distance. I did bog the motor in the street with real deep, wet snow. If you let the blower do the work, its fine. It's not under-powered , but a little bigger motor would be nice.
I bought this blower for my snow plow business. Being that it weighs on 58 lbs this is the perfect snow blower to haul around in the back of my work trucks. The snow blower arrived at my doorstep only two days after I ordered it.
There was barley any assembly required. Pretty much all I had to do was fill the blower with oil and gas, screw in a few bolts, and I was good to go. The fact that free shipping, and no sales tax is included (if you don't live in the state of Illinois)
When you figure in the money saved from sales tax, gasoline expense saved from driving to and from a store, this blower turns out to be a great bargain. The only down side is, I haven't had a real chance to use the blower since we haven't had a major snow fall yet this year.
I bought this blower for my snow plow business. Being that it weighs on 58 lbs this is the perfect snow blower to haul around in the back of my work trucks. The snow blower arrived at my doorstep only two days after I ordered it.
There was barley any assembly required. Pretty much all I had to do was fill the blower with oil and gas, screw in a few bolts, and I was good to go. The fact that free shipping, and no sales tax is included (if you don't live in the state of Illinois)
When you figure in the money saved from sales tax, gasoline expense saved from driving to and from a st... more
January 21, 2012
Tony
Will Not Start
Similar story to others, had carb rebuit last year and, this winter season, it will not start (just like before carb rebuild). Toro quality is very questionable now. I would not buy again.
October 21, 2011
Carl Chesterland, OH
From Northeast Ohio Snow Belt
I received my Toro Power clear 418 ZR in 4 days (thank you Snow blowers direct). Fed-X waited while I inspected it for any damage and everything was fine. Assembly was easy. I contacted Toro to double check on what brand of synthetic oil would be OK and they were very helpful. I topped it off, and gas it up, primed, and 4 pulls later it started. My good rating on this blower is for everything up to this point. We'll see when it snows and I will update this review.
March 06, 2011
Ed Zielinski Fort Wayne, IN
Great Machine And Terrific Service.
My snowblower didn't start at first, but I figured out what was wrong, I had too much fuel stabilizer in the gas. I dumped out the old gas, it then stared on the first pull, and I used it a lot on some heavy snowfalls. Purchased on this web site and received the next day, Great machine and fantastic service.
February 10, 2011
Joe Gittemeier Prairie Village, KS
I Love My New Toro
I received my Toro just in time to use it on a 5"-8" snow we received last week. It worked great and I appreciated the quick delivery and the fair price I received. I have definitely recommended your company to several of my friends.
January 28, 2011
Sandie Raslowsky North Brunswick, NJ
Best Christmas Present
My husband kept putting off buying a snow blower although he needed one as he has had two back operations, so this Christmas I bought him one. He was very happy.
This is the worst January in history for New Jersey. With the amount of snow, needless to say he has used it a lot and loves it more every time he uses it. It does the job perfectly each and every time.
Thank you Snow Blowers Direct for making the purchase easy. it arrived exactly when you said, it also was the best price around. We love it!!!
January 20, 2011
Ted Cincinnati, OH
After One Year It Doesn't Start
My wife gave me this last year (2009) as a Christmas present and it was one heck of a back saver last year. Now this year the first time I tried to use it, it's a different story, it won't start. I have tried everything that I can think of - cleaning the spark plug, fresh gas, checked oil. What am I forgetting? I have tried both puling the handle and electric start but it doesn't fire up. And yes I have primed it and open the choke, still nothing.. Any suggestions?
January 10, 2011
Leslie West Harrison, IN
Great Christmas Gift For Hubby
Boy was he surprised at Christmas. Delivery was exactly on time as promised. He has only used it once so far, but we are getting another 2-4 inches of snow this evening through tomorrow.
January 09, 2011
Mike Arvada, CO
Won't Start
Used it twice last season, first snow this season it would not start. Had the carb rebuilt because of the recall had our first big snow and even after a rebuilt carb will not start.
January 08, 2011
Steve Columbus, OH
Nice Little Blower
I recieved my snow blower about 2 days earlier than expected. It was in good condition except for a small dent on the left side which is the drive belt cover. Assembly was very easy took about 15 to 20 minutes. Filled with gas and added included oil. The first start up took about 50 pulls and much priming. The next startup took about 15 pulls so I decided to check the spark plug and I found the gap was way off .035 not .030 so set gap and reinstalled. Since then it has started on 1st or 2nd. pull. Went out today it is 17 deg. outside and it started on first pull. We have about 2.5 inches of snow on the ground so I thought I would finally try it out. It performed very well. The snow was a mixture of light, wet and compressed snow from tire tracks and the blower had no problem going through it. It self propels itself pretty well. Downhill very well, uphill had to push slightly to keep going but not much force needed. It threw the snow a good 15 feet, well out of the way. Looking forward to seeing how well it does in a little more snow. But from what I have seen I am sure it will do well. Very happy with this snowblower fits my needs very well. Would recommend to anyone who doesn't have a huge area to do. I have a 40 foot duel car driveway and sidewalks and it easily exceeds my needs. Very happy with purchase and buying from snowblowersdirect the price can't be beat. Add the free shipping and no tax = very happy customer.
I recieved my snow blower about 2 days earlier than expected. It was in good condition except for a small dent on the left side which is the drive belt cover. Assembly was very easy took about 15 to 20 minutes. Filled with gas and added included oil. The first start up took about 50 pulls and much priming. The next startup took about 15 pulls so I decided to check the spark plug and I found the gap was way off .035 not .030 so set gap and reinstalled. Since then it has started on 1st or 2nd. pull. Went out today it is 17 deg. outside and it started on first pull. We have about 2.5 inches of sn... more
January 05, 2011
Sandra Raslowsky North Brunswick, NJ
Toro Snow Blower
I purchased the snow blower for my husband for Christmas, it arrived exactly when you said it would.
My husband is 65 and has had two back operations, He absolutely loves it, we had a very bad snow blizzard and it worked like a charm! We are very happy with our purchase.
January 04, 2011
Larry OBrien Ravenna, OH
Great Machine
Easy to put together. Just took minutes and was ready to go. Handled 8 inches of snow no problem. Nice small compact design is a breeze to store.
January 04, 2011
James Meagher Yorktown, VA
Clear Power 180 18" Performance
My wife bought this snowblower for me a week before the worst snow storm in Southeastern VA in 30 years. Snow Blowers Direct drop-shipped (free shipping) to me in 4 days (a week before Xmas). Took 30 minutes to put together and it was a breeze. I know some of the reviews complained about the oil fill was hard to get to. Well it is unless you tip your snowblower up about 30 degrees so you can add the oil like filling a glass of water!! Tip the blower up and filling the oil is a breeze
My driveway is double wide concrete and approx 80 feet from street to privacy gates. From the gates to the detached garage another 35. I knocked this out in about 2 hours edge to edge front to back. My neighbors were still shoveling 3 hours later. I could have probably got the job completed a bit sooner but you guys know you got to play with a new toy so I had to play in the snow for a while before I started the actual work. :)
The snowblower started perfectly and I ran it for approx 10 minutes before taking into the snow. The snow was 8 to 10 inches deep when I started and the first pass was a bit slow because I was taking a full 18" bite. After the first pass I was taking 3 quarter bites and the blower moved along about as fast as I could walk behind. The blower cleaned right down to the concrete. As far as how far the snowblower will throw the snow depends on a few factors, wet or dry snow, angle of chute, direction of chute, amount of snow entering the blades. For the most part it kicked it out about 15 to 20 feet with dry snow.
After the work out I used the blower two more times to finish the remainder of the snow which fell later. It worked great. Owning a bunch of small engine equipment I prefer to use Ethanol free gas and always drain the tank and run the gas out of carburator when done. I changed the oil after the recommended 2 hours and this was a breeze. Overall I would have to give this little clear 180 snow blower a A+ for performance and ease of operation. Being a typical guy who likes power I would prefer the 121 cc motor over the 87cc four stroke but to be completely honest this little 87cc four stroke worked flawlessly.
My wife bought this snowblower for me a week before the worst snow storm in Southeastern VA in 30 years. Snow Blowers Direct drop-shipped (free shipping) to me in 4 days (a week before Xmas). Took 30 minutes to put together and it was a breeze. I know some of the reviews complained about the oil fill was hard to get to. Well it is unless you tip your snowblower up about 30 degrees so you can add the oil like filling a glass of water!! Tip the blower up and filling the oil is a breeze
My driveway is double wide concrete and approx 80 feet from street to privacy gates. From the gates to the ... more
December 31, 2010
Gary Eagan, MN
Bring On The Snow!
Very timely order and delivery, although missed the BIG storm by two days! New machine replaced a 25 year old model Toro. Would definitely go through Snow Blowers Direct again- (If they are around in 25 years!)
Thanks.
December 28, 2010
Jim Murray Millbury, MA
Don't Bother
Within the last two weeks, I purchased a Toro Power Clear 180 with electric start. I was looking for something a little lighter than my Toro 828LXE since I had surgery on my shoulder a couple of years ago and was having a little difficulty with the big one.
I was told by the Toro dealer that it would do a great job and pull itself along. Well, my son and I both tried it on 12-27 on moderate height fluffy snow and it is absolutely useless. I plan to return it to the dealer ASAP.
My Toro 828LXE has had numerous problems and also does not perform as described. It always wants to go to the left it won’t clear the snow down to the pavement going uphill, and in snow banks at the end of my driveway it just crawls up the snow bank.
The auger control is interlocked with the forward/reverse motion, and is supposed to stay down once depressed if you depress it after you engage the forward or reverse motion. It does stay down, but not in the fully engaged position.
When I first bought it, the forward/reverse speed controls were not properly adjusted, the unit would go backwards in Forward 1, and the gearbox leaked. I had to have it repaired once to fix one half of the auger.
This is just unacceptable for a machine that cost $1350. four to five years ago. This will be the last time that I will ever buy a Toro product. I am going to buy a Honda or John Deere next time.
Within the last two weeks, I purchased a Toro Power Clear 180 with electric start. I was looking for something a little lighter than my Toro 828LXE since I had surgery on my shoulder a couple of years ago and was having a little difficulty with the big one.
I was told by the Toro dealer that it would do a great job and pull itself along. Well, my son and I both tried it on 12-27 on moderate height fluffy snow and it is absolutely useless. I plan to return it to the dealer ASAP.
My Toro 828LXE has had numerous problems and also does not perform as described. It always wants to go ... more
December 27, 2010
Ben Bransom Lexington, KY
Great Toro Single Stage
The unit was delivered in two days, assembly was easy and the Toro started on the first pull.
I have had several opportunities to use the snow blower and it has done a great job. The most snow was four inches and the Toro did an outstanding job.
I would recommend this snow blower and Snow Blower Direct to all my friends. Thanks for the good service.
December 26, 2010
Kevin Wilmette, IL
Your Snow Blower Is Your Friend.
I just came in the house after clearing a fresh 6 inches of lake-effect snow.
I changed the oil on my new Toro 180 and am giving it a rest. I'll probably go back out in an hour or so when this latest squall ends and before the Bears game starts and clean it up again.
I'm really enjoying my new man-toy. I'm even doing the neighbors house since they're elderly and now it's easy and fun.
Oh, and my back thanks you too. My wife has been on my case for years to buy a snow blower but I always resisted. But after both of us hurt our backs last year I decided to make the big purchase.
Am I ever glad I did! My snow blower is now my friend. I take care of it and it will take care of me. So now I can spend more time getting ready for some Sunday football. The end.
I just came in the house after clearing a fresh 6 inches of lake-effect snow.
I changed the oil on my new Toro 180 and am giving it a rest. I'll probably go back out in an hour or so when this latest squall ends and before the Bears game starts and clean it up again.
I'm really enjoying my new man-toy. I'm even doing the neighbors house since they're elderly and now it's easy and fun.
Oh, and my back thanks you too. My wife has been on my case for years to buy a snow blower but I always resisted. But after both of us hurt our backs last year I decided to make the big purchase.
Recently used mine at multiple sites, started easy and cleaned satisfactory. Very happy with results.
April 07, 2010
LAURA West Jefferson, OH
I Really Like It
I Only Used It 1 Time This Past Winter and I Really Like It.
I Had 18 Inches of Snow to Blow. as Long as I Did Not Go Too Fast It Did Fantastic.
I Only Stalled It One Time Trying to Keep Going Through Too Deep of Snow
March 06, 2010
Len Staten Island, NY
Used It Right Away.
February 2010, NYC: The first 18" of snow was too much for my Toro electric snow thrower so I decided to get a more powerful one.
I found Snow Blower Direct on the WEB after a little research and liked the price and the promise of fast, free delivery.
All three things came true in a few days. The unit was easy to assemble, oil was included. I put it together and it began to snow another 18". Happy ending.
The new snow blower is easy to start and use, and made a much easier job of the 18".
March 05, 2010
Mike Arvada, CO
Need More Snow
I got the snow blower delivered in the middle of a typical Colorado snowstorm- 4 to 5 inches and it worked great.
The only thing I do not like is the way you have to add oil. It is in a spot that makes it difficult to check and add. It also does not throw 20+ yards as advertised but plenty far enough for me.
I haven't tried the electric start yet as it starts easily now, but in the future I would expect to try it.
March 04, 2010
Les Running Springs, CA
Arrived And Works Well
My snow blower was delivered within a few days of my order. I immediately assembled it and prepared for an upcoming snow storm.
I selected this size for several reasons--mostly because my property is a multi-level orientation with several tiers of decks--all of which need to be cleared.
The 18" width allowed me to start at the top and work my way downward until I reached the driveway. The narrow width and the moderate weight allowed me, once powered off, to lift the blower up stairs and to effectively navigate the various decks and narrow walkways on my property.
This size blower worked well on 6"-8" of fresh powdered snow. There were some deeper and larger snow banks which had to be broken up with a shovel.
The horsepower is sufficient with moderate snow however deeper snow banks or hard packed snow/ice will bog down the motor --at which point I simply back off and allow the RPMs to wind up before resuming my clearing.
Since this is Southern California, snow isn't really a big problem except once every few years. If it were a yearly snow storm, I think I would have purchased a beefier model with more horsepower.
Instructions are well written and easily followed. Assembly and operation are easy.
My snow blower was delivered within a few days of my order. I immediately assembled it and prepared for an upcoming snow storm.
I selected this size for several reasons--mostly because my property is a multi-level orientation with several tiers of decks--all of which need to be cleared.
The 18" width allowed me to start at the top and work my way downward until I reached the driveway. The narrow width and the moderate weight allowed me, once powered off, to lift the blower up stairs and to effectively navigate the various decks and narrow walkways on my property.
The Toro 180 works very well on new snow, but doesn't do that well on slush.
Overall, I'm very satisfied.
February 28, 2010
Robin B. Upper Marlboro, MD
From Ups To Snow In 15 Minutes!
We ordered this snow blower during the huge snow storm to hit the DC area the end of January.
We ordered on a Saturday, the delivery shipped on Monday, and arrived in DC on Wednesday, scheduled for delivery by UPS for Thursday. Delivery to our home was delayed because it snowed again on Wednesday night and UPS rescheduled the delivery for Friday. It didn't arrive until Monday, President's Day.
When UPS arrived my husband immediately took it out of the box, assembled the handle with 2 screws and a few bolts, added the oil (included in the box), filled with gas, inserted key, pulled handle and ZZZOOOMMMM!!!
Within 20 minutes from opening the box, our large driveway with 20 inches of snow was clear. The neighbors came outside and gawked in amazement! Wishing they had one. We referred them to this site.
It is the perfect size to do a long driveway, sidewalks and deck. Very light and easy to handle. Does not take a lot of storage space in the garage.
If we only use it once a year it was well worth the cost. We are going to purchase one as a gift for other family members.
We ordered this snow blower during the huge snow storm to hit the DC area the end of January.
We ordered on a Saturday, the delivery shipped on Monday, and arrived in DC on Wednesday, scheduled for delivery by UPS for Thursday. Delivery to our home was delayed because it snowed again on Wednesday night and UPS rescheduled the delivery for Friday. It didn't arrive until Monday, President's Day.
When UPS arrived my husband immediately took it out of the box, assembled the handle with 2 screws and a few bolts, added the oil (included in the box), filled with gas, inserted key, pulled h... more
February 16, 2010
Tevis Owings Mills, MD
Surving Snowmageddon 2010
The snow was so bad during this historic snow storm that the day UPS was scheduled to deliver my Toro, UPS had to reschedule the delivery from Friday due to adverse weather conditions to the following Monday. I waited all day for my Toro only to learn through the UPS tracking system that night they needed to reschedule delivery. That was disappointing.
It's important to read the manual to assemble it properly. It even came with the proper oil. After assembly, pouring in the oil and gas, it started right up according to the manual. I had snow that was 6 feet high due to to Bobcat's pushing snow from the street onto my property. The snow had been there a couple a days before the Toro arrived. So some of the snow was icing up underneath.
I shoveled the snow in my driveway first to knock down the height of the snow. The snow in my driveway was over 5 feet and I needed to widen the path of the driveway. I cranked up the Toro and it went right through the snow with no problem.
Next, I wanted to dig out my sidewalk in front of the house. That's where the Bobcat had dumped most of the snow from the street. So again, I used a shovel to loosen the snow and knock it down for the Toro. It went right through the snow with no problem after loosening the snow.
It's great on gas also. I was amazed at the power it has. It never came close to cutting off in snow that was 28 inches deep. This is my first snow thrower. I read the reviews on this website before purchasing this machine. I have to admit, I wanted to purchase a machine that was a little bigger, but they were all sold out, everywhere!
The reviews I read said this was a great machine and I do agree. Easy to assemble, operate and takes up little space for storage. I'm glad I bought it and I highly recommend this machine. Snowblowers Direct did a great job also. I would buy from them again.
If you don't want to spend a lot of money but want a good machine that still gets the job done, buy this model.
The snow is so high, my neighbor's Corvette Stingray is completely covered in snow. All that can be seen is his car antenna.
I'm 50 years old and this amount of snowfall told me it's time to get a machine.
The snow was so bad during this historic snow storm that the day UPS was scheduled to deliver my Toro, UPS had to reschedule the delivery from Friday due to adverse weather conditions to the following Monday. I waited all day for my Toro only to learn through the UPS tracking system that night they needed to reschedule delivery. That was disappointing.
It's important to read the manual to assemble it properly. It even came with the proper oil. After assembly, pouring in the oil and gas, it started right up according to the manual. I had snow that was 6 feet high due to to Bobcat's pushi... more
February 12, 2010
Mark Burtonsville, MD
Snowmageddon
This is an update to my last review. Unlike then, I had only used this snowblower on light snow. But we just had the storm of the century in our area, about 30 inches in the first blast followed by about 14 in the second 4 days later.
While this little snow blower could not directly get rid of almost 2.5 feet of heavy snow in one pass, it made it a lot easier than shoveling. I just cut down one row with a shovel then removed it in a few passes with the blower.
I spent about 2.5 hours clearing my driveway. My neighbors without snowblowers spent an entire day. The Toro handled the second round, with few exceptions, in a single pass.
I am very impressed by the power of this engine. It is not going to go through everything, but it will handle foot deep snow. It saved my not so young any more back during these storms.
I have a couple of additional comments:
1) As I said in my earlier review, my spark plug cap came off on one of the first couple of uses. Well, if I get snow on the engine, it seems to sputter a bit. Perhaps the spark plug cap is not sealing out moisture as well as it should. It was OK if I just avoided getting it too wet, which was only a problem when trying to undercut 2.5 foot deep snow bank, which is really not the way to go, anyway.
2) The problem with these snowblowers leaking gas can be attributed to the coating coming off the float bowl needle, preventing it from shutting off the gas when the carburetor bowl is full. When that happens, the engine will flood and gas will leak out on to the floor.
It is a known problem, a little research on the web will lead you to "TORO SERVICE BULLETIN SNOW PRODUCTS # 81". It is supposedly a free fix and if the service shop has a kit it only takes minutes to repair. I just wish Toro was a little more forthcoming about which serial numbers of the unit are likely to exhibit the problem.
Still, I have had no problems, have used it at least 10 times this season, sometimes for more than an hour at a time, and it starts first pull every time.
It's a great little machine, but I'm keeping my fingers crossed on the float needle problem.
This is an update to my last review. Unlike then, I had only used this snowblower on light snow. But we just had the storm of the century in our area, about 30 inches in the first blast followed by about 14 in the second 4 days later.
While this little snow blower could not directly get rid of almost 2.5 feet of heavy snow in one pass, it made it a lot easier than shoveling. I just cut down one row with a shovel then removed it in a few passes with the blower.
I spent about 2.5 hours clearing my driveway. My neighbors without snowblowers spent an entire day. The Toro handled the ... more
February 10, 2010
David Ann Arbor, MI
Won't Start
I used this snowblower for a total of 60 minutes over the last month. Now it won't start.
Well, it does start for about 5 seconds, then shuts off. Tried everything. Choke on/off. Not flooded, plug looks good. Gas is new and premium. Oil is fine. I hear that other people are having trouble with this machine after only a few uses. Buyer beware.
My local mower/machine shop where I bought it says bring it in - sometimes the carb is the problem. On a new machine!!? Stay away from this one. I too bought it because it was highly recommended, but now there are inches of snow in my driveway and I have to shovel to get my vehicle out so I can take this piece of junk back to the shop.
Do yourself a favor and read reviews from people who have used this thing for at least a couple of months. I would have written a glowing review a few weeks ago - glad I waited.
SBD RESPONDS: We have contacted Toro about the spate of problems with this unit, and asked for advice on how to get the unit working as quickly as possible. We'll post any info we get right away.
I used this snowblower for a total of 60 minutes over the last month. Now it won't start.
Well, it does start for about 5 seconds, then shuts off. Tried everything. Choke on/off. Not flooded, plug looks good. Gas is new and premium. Oil is fine. I hear that other people are having trouble with this machine after only a few uses. Buyer beware.
My local mower/machine shop where I bought it says bring it in - sometimes the carb is the problem. On a new machine!!? Stay away from this one. I too bought it because it was highly recommended, but now there are inches of snow in my driveway and... more
February 10, 2010
Jerry W Comack, NY
Toro Snow Blower
Very happy with this snow blower everything described in the copy was l00% correct. Customer service is the best.
The transaction was without any problems and customer service knew how to handle a problem I had.
Everything about Snow Blowers Direct is perfect and I definitely will do business with them for any item I need.
It is so nice to deal with a company and people who know about the business.
February 10, 2010
John Voorhees, NJ
Wow !
I ordered the Toro 180 Sunday 2/7/10 & machine was delivered Wed 2/10/10 in the middle of a snowstorm.
I assembled the handle, fueled & oiled, then went to work on 6 inches of very wet snow. It was a little sluggish because of the weight of the wet snow, but it still threw it far enough to clear my 28 foot wide driveway. I did my neighbor's driveway as well.
The Toro 180 is perfect for my needs & SnowBlowers Direct got it to me in NJ in 3 days to the hour.
February 09, 2010
Willard Peoria, IL
Wouldn't Start
The 2nd time to use NEW blower, it ran for 30 seconds and would not run again.
I took in and 1 hour later, had a new carburetor. The end of the needle had corroded.
February 01, 2010
Russ Chesapeake Beach, MD
Works Great!
This is the first snow blower I've ever owned, so really didn't know what to expect. I went through the tutorials on this website and taking that and the reviews into consideration purchased this model.
I've only owned it a little over a month, but have already used it twice. The first time was on a 3" snow and the second on an 8" snow.
This model has met or exceeded all of my expectations. As a matter of fact, it seemed to perform better on the higher amounts.
I have a two car driveway about 60 feet long and it cleared the driveway and the snow plow deposits easily. It took what could normally be a two hour job to less than 30 minutes.
Some of the cons listed in the other reviews are true, but in my mind are only minimal inconveniences. I have yet to encounter anything to make me regret this purchase.
This is the first snow blower I've ever owned, so really didn't know what to expect. I went through the tutorials on this website and taking that and the reviews into consideration purchased this model.
I've only owned it a little over a month, but have already used it twice. The first time was on a 3" snow and the second on an 8" snow.
This model has met or exceeded all of my expectations. As a matter of fact, it seemed to perform better on the higher amounts.
I have a two car driveway about 60 feet long and it cleared the driveway and the snow plow deposits easily. ... more
January 31, 2010
Mark Burtonsville, MD
Good Compact Snow Blower
This snow blower is lightweight and easy to operate. We just had a 6 inch snowfall that was fairly powdery. This snow blower went through it like it didn't exist.
This was my second use of the blower, the first was more experimental than practical since it was just 2 inches of snow. This time, when I got to the roughly 12 inch pile at the street left by the snow plow it started chugging but had plenty of power if I held it back a bit to control the feed rate.
It took me 10 minutes to clear off a driveway that would have taken me an hour or more with a shovel.
I had only one minor glitch. While operating the blower, the spark plug cap came off, obviously killing the motor. It went back on easily and felt secure, and the motor started right back up, but when the weather warms I am going to inspect it to see if there is some kind of issue.
One other minor complaint, not enough to dock this a rating point, is that I wish you could change the direction of the chute from the handle bar. It is a bit obnoxious having to reach down to turn it. It does turn easily however.
I highly recommend this snow blower to people with concrete or asphalt driveways who live like I do in an area where snowfall is limited to a few events a year.
This snow blower is lightweight and easy to operate. We just had a 6 inch snowfall that was fairly powdery. This snow blower went through it like it didn't exist.
This was my second use of the blower, the first was more experimental than practical since it was just 2 inches of snow. This time, when I got to the roughly 12 inch pile at the street left by the snow plow it started chugging but had plenty of power if I held it back a bit to control the feed rate.
It took me 10 minutes to clear off a driveway that would have taken me an hour or more with a shovel.
I am a first time buyer of a snow blower, and after doing research online and reading reviews I chose a Toro Single Stage model #38272.
I placed my order online on a Monday and it arrived that Friday! I was very pleased with Snow Blowers Direct and just as thrilled with the Toro itself.
The snow blower is very lightweight and easy to move around. It's very well made and does an excellent job removing snow.
It throws the snow a good distance and does well in almost any kind of snowstorm, although it can be a bit challenging if it's a wet snow over 6 inches deep. It will snow blow it but it's a little more difficult to move the machine around and it has a harder time throwing it.
I have never had the machine jam with snow.... like my neighbor does. I usually finish clearing my driveway before my neighbor does and it appears that I use less gas than he does... lol. I think he wants a snow blower like mine.
I would recommend this machine for anyone who is a first time buyer, who has a medium size yard to clear and who wants something lightweight.
I would definitely buy this model again and I would most certainly buy it from Snow Blowers Direct. Thank You!
I am a first time buyer of a snow blower, and after doing research online and reading reviews I chose a Toro Single Stage model #38272.
I placed my order online on a Monday and it arrived that Friday! I was very pleased with Snow Blowers Direct and just as thrilled with the Toro itself.
The snow blower is very lightweight and easy to move around. It's very well made and does an excellent job removing snow.
It throws the snow a good distance and does well in almost any kind of snowstorm, although it can be a bit challenging if it's a wet snow over 6 inches deep. It will snow bl... more
January 28, 2010
Monica Schultz Pgh, PA
Toro Back Saver
We were impressed with your prompt delivery after we placed our order.
The Toro starts easily and moves snow better than we expected.
January 28, 2010
Doug W. Overland Park, KS
Toro Power Clear
When the machine arrived, I did the small amount of assembly that was required, filling it first with oil and then with gasoline. Unfortunately, immediately upon filling with gas, the gas began leaking from the primer. It turns out that it is fairly common for the carburetor needle valve to stick in the open position with a new machine that is shipped "dry". I took the machine to a Toro authorized dealer and for $14, they fixed it. It NOW runs great and did a much better job with about a foot of snow than I thought it would.
January 27, 2010
Charles Ewing, NJ
Delivery Was Great, Assembly Was Easy
I haven't gotten to use the snowblower yet, we don't get tons of snow here.
I can say that delivery was great, assembly was easy, and my wife can start it (she never has success with pull cords).
January 26, 2010
William Omaha, NE
Excellent Snow Blower, Very Fast Delivery
I appreciate the very fast delivery more than anything else.
The snow blower works great and I bought it a very fair price. Snow Blowers Direct.com came in very handy when I couldn't find anything locally.
Thanks so much.
January 26, 2010
Philip Sullivan Walpole, MA
"el Toro" The Great
I purchased this snowblower for my wife because she had seen one of the older models being used by one of our daughters.
She liked it because it was small, light and easy to maneuver. When it came, I assembled it and had it all set to go in anticipation of the next snow storm.
In the meantime, I used it to clear off our patio which had not been cleared from a previous snow storm of 18 inches. I didn't have to wait to long as we got a new storm on the Martin Luther King holiday, January 18, 2010.
We got a total of about 10 inches, it came in increments of two or three inches, we would clear the driveway and the sidewalks, and then we would get more snow.
At any rate the Toro handled it just perfectly. The snow was wet and heavy and I had thought that it would be hard to clear with the new Toro because my large Ariens two-stage snow blower wouldn't have handled it without clogging up.
When the storm was all over and the town snowplow came and plowed the street, it left a deep heavy hedgerow of snow and water. I hesitated to use the new Toro on it because of the weight of the snow. But, in the end I used it and it handled it with ease.
I prefer it over my much more powerful and expensive Ariens. I highly recommend it and so does my wife. She loves it.
I tried to purchase one of these Toro snowblowers locally and was unable to locate one. They were all sold out. I contacted you and had it shipped almost immediately.
Thanks for the prompt and courteous service.
I purchased this snowblower for my wife because she had seen one of the older models being used by one of our daughters.
She liked it because it was small, light and easy to maneuver. When it came, I assembled it and had it all set to go in anticipation of the next snow storm.
In the meantime, I used it to clear off our patio which had not been cleared from a previous snow storm of 18 inches. I didn't have to wait to long as we got a new storm on the Martin Luther King holiday, January 18, 2010.
We got a total of about 10 inches, it came in increments of two or three inches, we wou... more
January 26, 2010
James Hunter Natick, MA
Works Great
I bought this snow blower for my aunt and uncle, since it is light weight it is easy for them to handle.
This type of machine works better than a large snow blower in heavy slush.
Every one I know can't believe how good these machines work.
January 25, 2010
Bruce Woods Valparaiso, NE
Back Saver
We have got more snow this year in Nebraska than we have in years. Me with my bad back, this unit is lightweight and moves around great.
I used it where my tractor can't get on our acres.
It works great, it was in perfect condition when I got it, and it started right up.
January 25, 2010
RAY BLANCARTE St Joseph, MO
Nothing But Toro!!
I bought this Toro snow thrower because I used to have a Toro unit that lasted for 28 years. I was really satisfied with the service I had from that old snow thrower.
I also have 2 Toro lawn mowers and I'm really please with them, also. I hope the lawn mowers last as long as my 1st snow thrower!
Of course, if they all last 28 years, they won't be selling too many products...
I'm really pleased with Toro products.
January 09, 2010
Wm Griffith, IN
Fun Machine
I purchased the small 18" Toro as a gift for my son. I have an ATV with a blade & a large 2-stage Toro. Most snows here don't warrant the use of the larger machines.
Before I gave it away we had about 8" of snow on the drive when I came home from work. I wanted to see if it was going to work out. My son has several rental homes & needed something portable.
I started the blower (1st pull!). I still had a coat & tie on and only wanted to make one pass down the drive to make sure it did the job .
I was so impressed that I finished my drive & sidewalk. I went inside changed clothes & went back out & did the neighbor's drive & walk. It was easy on the back.
I give it 5 stars.
I purchased the small 18" Toro as a gift for my son. I have an ATV with a blade & a large 2-stage Toro. Most snows here don't warrant the use of the larger machines.
Before I gave it away we had about 8" of snow on the drive when I came home from work. I wanted to see if it was going to work out. My son has several rental homes & needed something portable.
I started the blower (1st pull!). I still had a coat & tie on and only wanted to make one pass down the drive to make sure it did the job .
I was so impressed that I finished my drive & sidewalk. I went i... more
January 05, 2010
William Lees Summit, MO
Excellent Snow Blower!!!
I've had the Toro 1800 Powercurve (Electric) for about 5 years. It has done everything I've asked it to do up to 12" of snow.
It's a great little machine, but I got tired of messing with that dang extension cord!!!
I bought the PC180 and I have been pleasantly surprised! It's a great machine, with plenty of power. I removed 10" of snow like it was nothing!
Highly recommended....
December 26, 2009
Ryan Weatherby Lake, MO
Power Clear 180
I have an old Toro S-200 2-stroke. After many attempts to start it I broke down and bought this snow blower today.
I had around 6-8" of snow to clear from the drive and sidewalks. It took no time to do everything.
Assembly was easy and the electric start worked well for the first starting of the engine.
It won't go through 2 feet of snow in a single pass, but it did very well.
December 08, 2009
Joe Mapleton, UT
Power Clear 180
Having used the Power Lite model I was worried that the 4 stroke engine on this blower would be weak in comparison, but I was pleasantly surprised by this snow blower.
This blower has worked well for me in up to 10 inches of snow. More than that tends to bog the machine down a bit, but with repeated attempts it will plow through large snow drifts and heavier snow.
Overall, I feel the performance of this machine exceeds the Power Lite models of equivalent cc.
I have a large 3 car driveway and can start in the middle and throw light Utah snow well over 30 feet. The unit has a smooth and quiet engine operation, and the pull start is a breeze- 2 pulls max.
For the price I am very pleased with this machine. I hope it lasts a long time.
Having used the Power Lite model I was worried that the 4 stroke engine on this blower would be weak in comparison, but I was pleasantly surprised by this snow blower.
This blower has worked well for me in up to 10 inches of snow. More than that tends to bog the machine down a bit, but with repeated attempts it will plow through large snow drifts and heavier snow.
Overall, I feel the performance of this machine exceeds the Power Lite models of equivalent cc.
I have a large 3 car driveway and can start in the middle and throw light Utah snow well over 30 feet. The unit has a s... more