Are MTD Snow Blowers Good? The Brutally Honest Truth
You’re staring out the window as the snow piles up, and the thought of shoveling sends a chill down your spine. The big question hits: are MTD snow blowers any good? It’s a critical decision that stands between you and hours of back-breaking labor.
Many homeowners face this exact dilemma. They see MTD-branded machines at affordable prices but hear mixed reviews, leaving them confused and hesitant. The core problem is uncertainty about whether these budget-friendly machines can handle a tough winter without breaking down.
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Decoding the MTD Puzzle: More Than Just a Brand
Before judging an MTD snow blower, it’s crucial to understand who they are. MTD, which stands for Modern Tool and Die Company, is a massive American manufacturer of outdoor power equipment. They are the hidden force behind many popular brands you see in stores.
Brands like Troy-Bilt, Cub Cadet, Yard Machines, Remington, and even many Craftsman models are all manufactured by MTD. This means that when you’re looking at one of these, you’re essentially looking at a machine with an MTD-designed chassis and often a PowerMore engine, which is MTD’s in-house brand. Knowing this helps clarify why experiences can vary widely; MTD produces a vast range of machines from entry-level to more robust models across their different brand names.
The Good: Why People Buy MTD Snow Blowers
The primary appeal of MTD snow blowers is their affordability and accessibility. For homeowners who only need to clear a standard suburban driveway a handful of times each winter, a high-end, expensive machine can feel like overkill. MTD offers a practical solution that gets the job done without a massive financial investment.
Another significant advantage is the availability of parts. Since MTD manufactures so many units under various names, replacement parts like belts, shear pins, and spark plugs are widely available and generally inexpensive. This makes routine maintenance and minor repairs much more manageable for the average owner.
The Bad: Common Pain Points and User Complaints
Despite their popularity, MTD-made machines are not without their faults. A common complaint across forums and user reviews is the use of plastic components in key areas, such as the chute. While this keeps costs down, plastic can become brittle and crack in frigid temperatures, leading to frustrating failures mid-storm.
Some users also report issues with carburetors, especially if fuel is left sitting in the machine during the offseason. The PowerMore engines, while generally reliable, can be sensitive to fuel quality. Using fuel stabilizer and alcohol-free gasoline is a frequently recommended tip to prevent these problems.
Making the Smart Choice: How to Select the Right MTD Snow Blower
The key to satisfaction with an MTD product is choosing the right machine for your specific needs. Not all MTD snow blowers are created equal. Understanding the differences between their models is essential to avoid disappointment.
The biggest decision you’ll face is the “stage” of the snow blower. This determines how the machine collects and throws snow and is directly related to the type and amount of snowfall you typically receive. Investing in the right type is critical for performance.
Single-Stage vs. Two-Stage vs. Three-Stage Models
MTD offers models in all three categories, each designed for different conditions. Single-stage blowers are lightweight and best for clearing light, fluffy snow (up to 6 inches) from paved surfaces. They use a rubber-tipped auger that pulls the machine forward while scooping and throwing the snow in one motion.
Two-stage blowers are the most common choice for homeowners. They use a metal auger to break up snow and ice, which is then fed into a high-speed impeller that discharges it from the chute. This design allows them to handle deeper, heavier snow and work on gravel driveways since the auger doesn’t touch the ground. When comparing models, you’ll often see discussions around the capabilities of different brands; for instance, a deep dive into Toro vs Craftsman snow blowers can highlight features that might be important to you.
| Model Type | Best For | Clearing Width | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single-Stage | Light snow (under 8″), paved surfaces | 18-22 inches | Lightweight, easy to maneuver, clears to the pavement |
| Two-Stage | Moderate to heavy snow (8-18″), all surfaces | 24-30 inches | Self-propelled, handles packed snow and ice, won’t throw gravel |
| Three-Stage | Very heavy, wet snow (18″+), large areas | 26-34 inches | Maximum power, moves heavy slush quickly, clears end-of-driveway piles |
Key Features to Look For (and Avoid)
When inspecting an MTD snow blower, pay close attention to the details. A steel chute will almost always outlast a plastic one. Check the construction of the auger housing; thicker steel is a good indicator of durability. For engine reliability, models equipped with a Briggs & Stratton engine may offer a slight edge over the standard PowerMore, though both require proper fuel management.
An electric start is a near-essential feature that saves you from wrestling with a pull cord in freezing weather. Also, look for models with multiple forward and reverse speeds, as this provides much better control when navigating different snow depths and terrain. Considering where you will keep your machine, such as whether you might store it in a non-traditional space like a reinforced gym in an attic, can also influence whether a more compact model is right for you.
The Secret to Longevity: Proactive Maintenance
The overwhelming consensus among long-time MTD owners is that preventative maintenance is the key to a long and happy relationship with your machine. These are not commercial-grade units that can withstand neglect. A small amount of care will prevent the vast majority of common problems.
Simple tasks, performed consistently, will keep your snow blower ready for action when the first flakes fall. Neglecting this is the single biggest reason some users have a poor experience. Even seemingly unrelated home maintenance, like perfecting a brick to drywall transition, shows an attention to detail that pays off, and the same principle applies here.
Pre-Season Preparation Checklist
Before winter arrives, perform a simple tune-up. Change the oil to ensure the engine is properly lubricated. Inspect the spark plug for corrosion and replace it if it looks worn. This is a cheap and easy way to ensure reliable starting.
Next, check the belts for any cracks or signs of wear and tear. A broken belt will render the machine useless, so replacing a worn one ahead of time is smart. Finally, add fresh, stabilized fuel to the tank to ensure the carburetor stays clean.
Post-Use Care: A Simple Habit for a Healthy Machine
After each use, take two minutes to clean snow and ice off the auger and out of the chute. This prevents parts from freezing up and reduces stress on the machine during the next startup. If you encounter a problem, like a machine that won’t move properly, it could be a sign of a larger issue. For instance, a common problem where a Cub Cadet snow blower won’t go in reverse often points to a worn friction wheel, a part that can be inspected during routine checks.
At the end of the season, either drain the fuel completely or run the machine dry. This is the most critical step to prevent carburetor gumming, which is the leading cause of starting problems the following winter. Taking these small steps transforms an MTD from a “budget” machine into a reliable workhorse.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are MTD snow blowers reliable?
MTD snow blowers can be reliable if properly maintained. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes, spark plug checks, and belt inspections, is crucial for their longevity. For homeowners with average driveway sizes, a well-cared-for MTD snow blower can provide years of service.
What are the most common problems with MTD snow blowers?
Some common issues reported with MTD snow blowers include starting problems, clogged chutes, and rough running engines. Many of these problems can be prevented with routine maintenance, such as using fresh fuel and checking the spark plug. The availability of parts is generally good, and they are considered relatively easy to work on.
Are MTD snow blowers good for heavy, wet snow?
The performance of an MTD snow blower in heavy, wet snow depends on the model. Two-stage models are better equipped to handle deep and heavy snow compared to single-stage models. For areas with frequent heavy snowfall, a more powerful two-stage MTD snow blower would be a more suitable choice.
How do MTD snow blowers compare to more expensive brands?
MTD snow blowers are generally considered a budget-friendly option and may not be as robustly built as more expensive brands like Ariens or Toro. However, they offer good value for the price, especially for homeowners who use them a few times a year. While they may use more plastic components, with proper care they can be a significant improvement over shoveling.
What brands are made by MTD?
MTD is a large manufacturer that produces snow blowers under several brand names. Besides their own MTD brand, they also manufacture Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, Yard Machines, and Remington, among others. This means that while the branding may be different, the underlying mechanics and parts may be very similar across these brands.
The Final Verdict: Is an MTD Snow Blower a Good Investment?
After weighing the pros and cons, the answer is a qualified yes. MTD snow blowers offer excellent value for the money, particularly for homeowners with average-sized driveways and typical snowfall. They are cost-effective machines that, when properly maintained, can provide many years of reliable service.
The catch is that you cannot treat them like a premium, heavy-duty machine. You must be diligent with maintenance. If you are a “set it and forget it” type of person, you may become frustrated. But if you’re willing to perform basic pre-season checks and practice good fuel management, an MTD snow blower is a smart, budget-conscious choice that will save your back winter after winter.
