Craftsman 88396 information from Consumer Reports

Craftsman 88396

Approximate retail price:

$1,199.99

Summary: This two-stage gas-powered Craftsman is 30 inches wide with electric start. It also has a headlight and single-lever chute control.

6 people have reviewed this model.

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Type: Two-stage gas snow blowers

About - Craftsman 88396
The Craftsman 88396 is part of the snow blower test program at Consumer Reports. In our lab tests, snow blower models like the 88396 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 88396

The Craftsman 88396 is part of the snow blower test program at Consumer Reports. In our lab tests, snow blower models like the 88396 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 88396. Features and specs may vary
Craftsman 98539
	Approximate retail price: $1000 The Ratings applied to untested model Craftsman 98539 come from our tests of model Craftsman 88396, which in our judgment is enough alike in its performance, features, and specs that our test results apply to both.
Troy-Bilt Storm 3090XP 31AH55R
	Approximate retail price: $1200 The Ratings applied to untested model Troy-Bilt Storm 3090XP 31AH55R come from our tests of model Craftsman 88396, which in our judgment is enough alike in its performance, features, and specs that our test results apply to both.

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 88396
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	357cc
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	Yes
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	Yes
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	Yes
Headlight This eases snow throwing at night or in low-light situations. Headlight	Yes
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
More features and specs

User Reviews - Craftsman 88396

Consumer Reports User Reviews

Already own it? Write a review

By Mark

from Longmeadow, MASS

4.0

Good buy in my opinion

2/26/2013

Pros

Clears to the Pavement

Maneuverable

Throws Far

Cons

Loud

Best Uses

Driveway

Comment:

This is my first snow blower so I dont have a lot of experience nor can I do a comparison. We had a big noreastern come thru with 28 inches of snow. This storm was just my third time using the blower. It handled the large volume of snow pretty easily so I know it will likely always meet our needs. Even the front of the driveway was not too difficult to blow.

How long have you owned it:

One-to-three months

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend.

By Biker59

from Newfields,N.H.

4.0

Great Machine

2/10/2013

Pros

Clears to the Pavement

Maneuverable

Throws Far

Cons

Best Uses

Driveway

Comment:

Just bought this machine after my 20 year old Toro finally died after the 2+ feet of snow dumped on us by the last noreaster. I was able to clear my 125' two car wide driveway with a 30' turnaround in a little over an hour. The Craftsman cut through drifts well over 3 feet with ease. End of the driveway was a piece of cake, and I live on a state road(big piles!) The toggle control for the chute direction and angle responds instantly. The throwing distance is outstanding. Handling is very good.I couldn't be happier with this machine.

How long have you owned it:

A month or less

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend.

By YardMan

from East Brunswick, NJ

1.0

Stay away!

2/10/2013

Pros

Easy To Control

Powerful engine

Cons

Chute Control Sticks

Loud

Skid Shows Catch Pavement

Tires Pop Off Rims

Best Uses

Looks Good In The Store

Comment:

Sears snowblowers have a congenital problem with tires losing air pressure, popping off the rims and being near impossible to get remounted. Sears Service is absolutely the worst - either We don't stock parts for that model - for a BRAND NEW PRODUCT!! - or the same problem occurs with the new parts. Forced to believe that this is just a poorly engineereed product. My neighbor's unrated (by CR) Honda races through the same size lot (driveway and walkways) as mine in half the time. Just some of the problems in the first year: Tires popped off rims twice. Chute control frezes and jams easily. Poor traction on packed snow. Drive system often disengages; have to release drive control and then re-apply. No effective compression release - difficult to restart hot engine.

How long have you owned it:

More than six months

Bottom Line

No, I would not recommend this to a friend.

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