| About - Craftsman 88396 |
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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.
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| Similar Models | ||
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| The following models have the same ratings as Craftsman 88396. Features and specs may vary |
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| Craftsman 98539 | ||
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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.
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| Troy-Bilt Storm 3090XP 31AH55R | ||
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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.
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| About This Brand |
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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 | |
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357cc |
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Yes |
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Yes |
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Yes |
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Yes |
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Yes |
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Yes |
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No |
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2 |
| More features and specs | |
Consumer Reports User Reviews
Already own it? Write a review
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.
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.
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. <br /><br />Just some of the problems in the first year:<br /><br />Tires popped off rims twice.<br />Chute control frezes and jams easily.<br />Poor traction on packed snow.<br />Drive system often disengages; have to release drive control and then re-apply.<br />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.
Other User Reviews
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