Craftsman 88173 information from Consumer Reports

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Craftsman 88173

Approximate retail price:

$679.99

Summary: This compact-two stage gas-powered Craftsman is 24 inches wide with electric start.

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Type: Compact two-stage gas snow blowers

About - Craftsman 88173
The Craftsman 88173 is part of the snow blower test program at Consumer Reports. In our lab tests, snow blower models like the 88173 are rated on multiple criteria, such as those listed below. Width (in.): The clearing width, or swath, in inches. Removal speed: Removal speed is how quickly models could remove snow without laboring; single-stage machines were pushed as quickly as possible before the machine labored. Plow pile removal: How fast the snow thrower can remove a simulated pile of snow left by a municipal plow at the end of a driveway.

About - Craftsman 88173

The Craftsman 88173 is part of the snow blower test program at Consumer Reports. In our lab tests, snow blower models like the 88173 are rated on multiple criteria, such as those listed below.

Width (in.):: The clearing width, or swath, in inches.
Removal speed:: Removal speed is how quickly models could remove snow without laboring; single-stage machines were pushed as quickly as possible before the machine labored.
Plow pile removal:: How fast the snow thrower can remove a simulated pile of snow left by a municipal plow at the end of a driveway.

Similar Models
The following models have the same ratings as Craftsman 88173. Features and specs may vary
Craftsman 98536
	Approximate retail price: $650 The Ratings applied to untested model Craftsman 98536 come from our tests of model Craftsman 88173, which in our judgment is enough alike in its performance, features, and specs that our test results apply to both.
MTD Gold 31AM63KE
	Approximate retail price: $700 The Ratings applied to untested model MTD Gold 31AM63KE come from our tests of model Craftsman 88173, which in our judgment is enough alike in its performance, features, and specs that our test results apply to both.
Cub Cadet 524SWE 31AM53TR
	Approximate retail price: $850 The Ratings applied to untested model Cub Cadet 524SWE 31AM53TR come from our tests of model Craftsman 88173, which in our judgment is enough alike in its performance, features, and specs that our test results apply to both. extended chute, single lever joy stick, turning clutches, headlight

About This Brand
Another market leader in snow-blower sales, Craftsman markets single- and two-stage gas models with snow clearing widths of 20 to 28 inches and available electric start. In addition, the Craftsman Professional line features models with snow clearing widths up to 45 inches. Craftsman is made for and sold by Sears and models can be purchased online and in Sears and Kmart retail stores.

About This Brand

Another market leader in snow-blower sales, Craftsman markets single- and two-stage gas models with snow clearing widths of 20 to 28 inches and available electric start. In addition, the Craftsman Professional line features models with snow clearing widths up to 45 inches. Craftsman is made for and sold by Sears and models can be purchased online and in Sears and Kmart retail stores.

Features & Specs - Craftsman 88173
Engine size Engine Size is the engine displacement measured in cubic centimeters for gasoline powered engines. Most manufacturers not longer give a horsepower rating. Engine displacement is now the only universal way to compare relative engine size. Electric motors are stated in amps. Engine size	208cc
Electric start Most models offer a plug-in startng device that saves you the hassle of pull-starting the engine, but you need to be near an outlet. Electric start	Yes
Multiple speeds For two-stage models, most come with multiple forward speeds and two reverse speeds. The ability to vary ground speed according to snow conditions gets the job done faster. Some of the least expensive two-stage models have only one forward speed. Multiple speeds	Yes
Single hand controls Most two-stage models have individual lever controls on each side of the handlebar, one engaging the wheel traction and the other for engaging the auger/impeller. This feature allows both control levers to be held down with one hand, leaving the other hand free to adjust the chute controls. Single hand controls	No
Freewheel steering For two-stage models, this feature, which usually consists of triggers under each handlebar, disengages either or both the left and right drive wheels for easy, sharp turning. Freewheel steering	No
Single lever chute adjustment Only on two-stage models, a single lever or "joystick" on the control panel allows for quick changes to the horizontal discharge direction (the alternative is a hand crank) and to the vertical discharge height (the alternative is leaving the operator position and manual adjustment) all with a single lever. Single lever chute adjustment	No
Headlight This eases snow throwing at night or in low-light situations. Headlight	No
Heated handgrips Heated handgrips are a nicety, though they don't replace a good pair of gloves. Heated handgrips	No
Warranty (yrs.) Manufacturer's stated warranty in years of coverage. In most cases it applies only to consumer use and not commercial use. Warranty (yrs.)	2
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