17 people have reviewed this model.
| About - Craftsman 88970 |
|---|
|
The Craftsman 88970 is part of the snow blower test program at Consumer Reports. In our lab tests, snow blower models like the 88970 are rated on multiple criteria, such as those listed below.
|
| Similar Models | ||
|---|---|---|
| The following models have the same ratings as Craftsman 88970. Features and specs may vary |
||
| MTD 31AM63FF | ||
|
Approximate retail price:
$700
The Ratings applied to untested model MTD 31AM63FF come from our tests of model Craftsman 88970, which in our judgment is enough alike in its performance, features, and specs that our test results apply to both. same features
|
|
| Troy-Bilt Storm 2620 31BM63P | ||
|
Approximate retail price:
$760
The Ratings applied to untested model Troy-Bilt Storm 2620 31BM63P come from our tests of model Craftsman 88970, 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,
|
|
| Yard Machines 31AM63FF | ||
|
Approximate retail price:
$770
The Ratings applied to untested model Yard Machines 31AM63FF come from our tests of model Craftsman 88970, which in our judgment is enough alike in its performance, features, and specs that our test results apply to both. same features
|
|
| Craftsman 88691 | ||
|
Approximate retail price:
$800
The Ratings applied to untested model Craftsman 88691 come from our tests of model Craftsman 88970, 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
|
|
| Yard Man 31AM63LF | ||
|
Approximate retail price:
$800
The Ratings applied to untested model Yard Man 31AM63LF come from our tests of model Craftsman 88970, 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, headlight
|
|
 See More Similar Models |
||
| 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 88970 | |
|---|---|
Engine size |
208cc |
|
Electric start |
Yes |
|
Multiple speeds |
Yes |
|
Single hand controls |
Yes |
|
Freewheel steering |
No |
|
Single lever chute adjustment |
Yes |
|
Headlight |
No |
|
Heated handgrips |
No |
|
Warranty (yrs.) |
2 |
| More features and specs | |
Consumer Reports User Reviews
Already own it? Write a review
decent value, but could use improvement
12/3/2011
Pros
Clears to the Pavement
Lower emissions
Starts easily
Cons
Joystick control hangs
Needed repair out of box
Best Uses
Driveway
Yard
Comment:
I was impressed on how easily the engine starts. The OHV design helps cut down on emissions and fuel consumption. The lower CC's than my previous craftsman means this one lacks torque in heavy snow. I'm disappointed that the engine is sourced from China. the drive mechanism needed repair out of the box. I have 250'+ of sidewalk,and also clear neighbors' driveways so the unit gets alot of use. Overall, it's a decent value, but not a great machine.
How long have you owned it:
More than six months
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend this to a friend.
Good at clearing but gears wear quickly
11/11/2011
Pros
Clears to the Pavement
Maneuverable
Throws Far
Cons
Best Uses
Driveway
Comment:
I purchased the blower and was happy with its performance for the first season. The auger drive gear wore out on the first storm of the second season and cost about half of the purchase price to have Sears repair it, they replaced the entire auger assembly. My neighbor had the same thing happen. He bought the drive gear from [@] and I fixed the auger for about $60. The blower is made by MTD and has a reputation among repairmen in my area as being poorly designed and prone to premature wear.
How long have you owned it:
More than six months
Bottom Line
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
(1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)
Ran great for 30 minutes!
11/2/2011
Pros
Cons
Disposable - use once
Won't start
Best Uses
Lawn ornament
Comment:
Set this up during the pre-Halloween snow storm last weekend. Easy to set up. Started it up and seemed to run fine. Stalled after 30 minutes. Did a decent job until then. Will start when cold and run roughly for a few minutes and then won't restart. Looks like the carb/fuel system, which I see on the boards is a real joke. Bought this because it was recommended by Consumer Reports as a best buy. Not so much...
How long have you owned it:
A month or less
Bottom Line
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
Other User Reviews
There are 0 reviews from the web
