The Toro Power Clear 180 38282 is part of the snow blower
test program at Consumer Reports. In our lab tests, snow blower
models like the Power Clear 180 38282 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 This Brand
One of the market leaders in snow-blower sales, Toro sells a variety of electric models in addition to single- and two-stage gas models at outdoor power equipment dealers and Home Depot. It markets the electric models under the Power Curve and Power Shovel line names and the gas models under the Power Shift and Power Max line names. Electric modelshave snow clearing widths of 12 to 18 inches. Gas models have snow clearing widths of 16 to 28 inches and available electric start.
Features & Specs - Toro Power Clear 180 38282
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
87cc
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
No
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.
I use it to clear sidewalks and very large driveway. It throws snow further than I expected given it's size. It clears nearly as well as my old 21 Toro single stage but much easier to manuever. One pull start every time so far. Save the money and akip electric start.
How long have you owned it:
One-to-three months
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend this to a friend.
By
jim
from
chicago
(2 of 2 customers found this review helpful)
5.0
great machine
2/8/2011
Pros
Clears to the Pavement
Lightweight
Maneuverable
Throws Far
Cons
Best Uses
Driveway
Yard
Comment:
bought just prior to the 20 inch snow we had in chicago, worked great. Because its smaller you have to take more time to clear snow but it works great
How long have you owned it:
A month or less
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend this to a friend.
By
johnstonrk
from
Westwood, KS
(4 of 4 customers found this review helpful)
5.0
Great Machine Even for a Woman!
1/28/2011
Pros
Clears to the Pavement
Easy Start Up
Lightweight
Maneuverable
Throws Far
Cons
Best Uses
Driveway
Comment:
After shoveling by hand my 80'driveway, I decided to purchase a snow-blower. My husband has used the Toro mowers for some years with great success so I bought this Toro Snow-Blower. I am glad I did. What normally took me 4 hours to shovel by hand, I can do in 1 hour. I am glad for the size because if it were any bigger I couldn't have handled the machine. It is great and I recommend it to anyone needing a good snow-blower.