Who Makes Spirit Snowblowers? The Surprising Truth Revealed
You’ve seen them lining the aisles, especially at retailers like Menards. The name “Spirit” is emblazoned on the side, the price is often competitive, and it looks ready to tackle a driveway full of snow. Yet, a nagging question remains for savvy buyers: who actually makes Spirit snowblowers?
This lack of a clear, well-known brand name can cause hesitation. Is this a quality machine? Can you find parts for it? Is it just a rebranded version of another, more familiar snowblower? These are the critical questions that can mean the difference between a reliable winter workhorse and a frustrating hunk of metal in your garage.
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The Real Manufacturer Behind the Spirit Brand
Let’s clear the air immediately. The “Spirit” brand of snowblowers is primarily manufactured by Murray, which itself operates under the massive umbrella of Briggs & Stratton. For years, Murray has been a major player in the world of Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) for outdoor power equipment.
Think of them as a ghostbuilder for many of the store-brand machines you see. They produce equipment that is then branded and sold by specific retailers. This is an extremely common practice in the industry, allowing stores to offer exclusive product lines without owning and operating their own factories.
What This OEM Relationship Means for You
Knowing that Murray is the manufacturer is more than just a piece of trivia; it’s the key to unlocking the true nature of your Spirit snowblower. Murray has a long history of producing reliable, if sometimes basic, equipment for the average homeowner. They have also manufactured machines or components for brands like Craftsman in the past.
This connection is fantastic news for owners. It means that many parts are interchangeable with other Murray-made machines. Instead of searching for a rare “Spirit” branded part, you can often find the equivalent Murray or even a compatible Briggs & Stratton part, dramatically expanding your options for repairs and maintenance.
Are Spirit Snowblowers Any Good? A Brutal, Honest Look
Now for the million-dollar question: does the Murray manufacturing pedigree mean Spirit snowblowers are a good investment? The answer is nuanced. They are generally built to hit a specific, budget-friendly price point for retailers.
This means they offer solid core performance for most residential needs but may lack the heavy-duty components and premium features of top-tier brands like Ariens or Honda. For a typical suburban driveway that sees moderate snowfall, a Spirit snowblower is often more than capable of getting the job done effectively.
Build Quality and Common Components
Spirit snowblowers are typically two-stage machines, which are excellent for handling deeper, heavier snow. The engines are often reliable Tecumseh or Briggs & Stratton models, both of which are industry workhorses with readily available service information.
The weak points, if any, tend to be in the secondary components. You might find more plastic parts in the chute control or dashboard area compared to premium models. While perfectly functional, these areas may require more careful handling to ensure longevity. If you ever encounter an issue where the machine falters under load, it’s worth investigating common culprits; for instance, if your snowblower dies when the auger is engaged, it’s often a belt or clutch issue that is straightforward to fix.
Spirit Snowblower Models: A Head-to-Head Comparison
Spirit snowblowers have been offered in various sizes and engine configurations over the years. Understanding the key differences can help you identify a used model or compare it to other machines on the market. Here is a breakdown of typical specifications you might find.
| Feature | Typical Small Frame Model | Typical Mid-Frame Model | Typical Large Frame Model |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clearing Width | 24 inches | 27 inches | 29 inches |
| Engine Size | 5 – 8 HP | 8 – 10 HP | 10 – 11 HP |
| Stage Type | Two-Stage | Two-Stage | Two-Stage |
| Key Features | Pull Start, Manual Chute | Electric Start, Remote Chute Control | Electric Start, Headlight, Powered Steering |
| Best For | Smaller driveways, lighter snows | Average suburban driveways | Longer driveways, heavier snow regions |
The Ultimate Guide to Finding Spirit Snowblower Parts & Service
This is where many owners of store-brand equipment get frustrated. Finding a parts diagram specifically for a “Spirit” model can be challenging. However, because you now know they are made by Murray, you have a powerful advantage.
The model number is your holy grail. Look for a sticker on the frame of the snowblower, often near the wheels or on the back of the auger housing. This number is the key. Instead of searching for “Spirit,” use that model number in a search for “Murray snowblower parts.” You will often find complete diagrams and part lists that match your machine perfectly.
Cross-Referencing for Success
Many online parts retailers have cross-reference tools. You can enter a part number you find on a Murray diagram (e.g., for a drive belt or shear pin) and see compatible parts from other brands. This is especially useful for common wear items.
For older machines, like a vintage Murray 824ES, forums and user groups can be invaluable resources for finding compatible parts from a wide range of manufacturers. The core mechanical components of these snowblowers were used across many different branded product lines.
Who Should Buy a Spirit Snowblower (and Who Should Avoid It)
A Spirit snowblower represents a smart purchase for a specific type of user. It offers a fantastic balance of performance and value, making it an excellent choice for those who don’t need a commercial-grade machine.
However, it may not be the ideal choice for everyone. If you have a very large, steep, or gravel driveway, or if you live in an area that consistently receives feet of heavy, wet snow, investing in a higher-tier brand with more robust features might be a better long-term solution.
The Ideal Buyer Profile
You are the perfect candidate for a Spirit snowblower if you are a homeowner with a small to medium-sized paved driveway. You need a reliable machine to clear snow effectively without breaking the bank. You are also comfortable with performing basic maintenance, like changing the oil and spark plug, to keep it running smoothly.
Eventually, every machine reaches the end of its life. When that time comes, knowing where to sell your snowblower can help you recoup some of your investment to put toward a new one. The simple, reliable mechanics of a Spirit machine often make it an attractive option on the used market.
Final Verdict: The Bottom Line on Spirit Snowblowers
The mystery of the Spirit snowblower is solved. These machines are not from some unknown, fly-by-night company but are products of Murray, a longtime staple in the American outdoor power equipment industry. They are built to provide homeowners with a dependable and affordable tool for winter’s worst.
By understanding their manufacturing origins, you gain the confidence to purchase, the knowledge to find parts, and the ability to properly maintain your machine for years of service. A Spirit snowblower is a testament to the fact that you don’t always need the most expensive brand name to get a quality, hardworking piece of equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who makes Spirit snowblowers?
Spirit snowblowers are manufactured by Murray. Murray is a well-known brand of outdoor power equipment. Over the years, the Spirit brand has been associated with Murray products.
Is Murray still in business?
Yes, Murray is still in business and is a part of the Briggs & Stratton Corporation. Briggs & Stratton is a major American manufacturer of small engines and outdoor power equipment. This association means that many Murray and Spirit products utilize Briggs & Stratton engines.
Where can I find parts for a Spirit snowblower?
Since Spirit snowblowers are made by Murray, many parts are interchangeable with Murray-branded snowblowers. You can often find compatible parts by searching for the model number of your Spirit snowblower under the Murray brand. Several online retailers and local small engine repair shops carry parts for Murray equipment.
What kind of engine does a Spirit snowblower have?
Many Spirit snowblowers are equipped with engines manufactured by Tecumseh or Briggs & Stratton. To identify the specific engine in your model, you will need to locate the identification plate on the engine itself, which will have the manufacturer’s name and model number.
