Craftsman 9 HP 28 Inch Snowblower Review: The Brutal Truth
Winter arrives with a relentless promise of snow, turning driveways into impassable white barriers. For many homeowners, the annual battle against accumulating snow is a significant source of stress and physical strain, leading them to seek a powerful and reliable mechanical ally.
The Craftsman 9 hp 28-inch snowblower often appears as a popular choice on the used market and in many garages, lauded for its seemingly powerful engine and wide clearing path. The core problem many buyers face is uncertainty: can this older, often discontinued model truly handle the brutal demands of a harsh winter, or is it an outdated machine prone to frustrating breakdowns?
This comprehensive review digs deep into the performance, common issues, and long-term reliability of this workhorse. We will dissect its features and provide actionable solutions to its most frequent problems, helping you decide if it’s the right machine to conquer your winter woes.
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Decoding the Powerhouse: What Does “9 HP” Actually Mean?
One of the most prominent features of this snowblower is its “9 horsepower” engine. However, in the world of outdoor power equipment, engine ratings have evolved. Understanding this distinction is critical to setting realistic performance expectations.
Historically, horsepower (HP) was the primary marketing metric for small engines. Over time, these ratings became less standardized, leading to potential confusion. The industry has largely shifted to using engine displacement, measured in cubic centimeters (cc), as a more consistent indicator of an engine’s potential power.
From Horsepower to CC: A More Accurate Measure
A typical 9 HP engine from the era these snowblowers were produced, often made by manufacturers like Tecumseh or Briggs & Stratton, generally falls in the range of 277cc to 305cc. This displacement is substantial and signifies a motor capable of generating significant torque.
This torque is the crucial force for snow removal. It’s what allows the auger to chew through dense, compacted snow at the end of a driveway without bogging down. While the “9 HP” label is a good general guide, focusing on the engine’s displacement provides a clearer picture of its raw capability.
Real-World Power Application
The engine in this Craftsman model is designed to power a robust two-stage system. The first stage, the serrated steel auger, breaks up and gathers the snow. The second stage, a high-speed impeller, then ejects the snow forcefully through the discharge chute.
This two-stage design, powered by a high-torque engine, makes the machine particularly effective for regions that experience heavy, wet snowfall. It’s engineered to move a high volume of snow quickly, a task where smaller, single-stage blowers would fail.
Core Features and Specifications at a Glance
Beyond the engine, the Craftsman 9 hp 28-inch snowblower is defined by a set of key specifications that dictate its performance and usability. These features work in concert to create a machine built for serious snow clearing tasks.
Understanding these components is essential for evaluating whether the snowblower’s design meets the specific demands of your property. The table below provides a clear breakdown of its most important attributes.
| Feature | Specification Details |
|---|---|
| Clearing Width | 28 inches (71 cm) |
| Intake Height | Approximately 21 inches (53 cm) |
| Engine Displacement | ~277cc – 305cc (Typically a Tecumseh Snow King or Briggs & Stratton) |
| System Type | Two-Stage (Auger and Impeller) |
| Drive System | Self-Propelled, Friction Disc Drive |
| Speeds | Multiple Forward (Usually 6) and Reverse (Usually 2) |
| Starting System | Manual Recoil and 120V Electric Start Port |
| Chute Control | Crank or Lever for Rotational Control, Deflector with Manual Adjustment |
| Tires | Large, Deep-Tread Pneumatic Tires (e.g., 15″ x 5″) |
The 28-Inch Clearing Width: A Double-Edged Sword
A 28-inch clearing width is a significant advantage for homeowners with long or wide driveways. It dramatically reduces the number of passes required to clear the area, saving considerable time and effort during a snowstorm.
However, this width can also be a drawback. In tight spaces, around parked cars, or on narrow walkways, maneuvering the large machine can be cumbersome. The wide intake also demands significant engine power to be effective, especially in deep or heavy snow, placing a heavy load on the engine and drive components.
Two-Stage Dominance: Conquering Deep Snow
The two-stage system is the heart of this snowblower’s effectiveness. Unlike single-stage models that simply paddle snow forward, this design is methodical and powerful. The slow-turning steel auger effectively breaks up everything from light powder to packed ice.
The snow is then fed into the high-speed impeller, which acts like a powerful fan, forcefully ejecting the snow up and out of the chute. This system allows the machine to throw snow much farther—often up to 40 feet or more—and handle deeper accumulations without clogging as easily as lesser designs.
Real-World Performance: Beyond the Spec Sheet
Specifications on paper can only tell you so much. The true test of any snowblower is its performance under the duress of a real snowstorm. Based on extensive user feedback and performance analysis, the Craftsman 9 hp 28-inch model has distinct strengths and weaknesses.
Its effectiveness varies significantly depending on the type and density of the snow it is tasked with clearing. Homeowners should consider their typical winter conditions when evaluating if this machine is the right fit.
Effortless in Light, Powdery Snow
In dry, powdery snow up to a foot deep, this snowblower is in its element. The powerful engine and wide intake allow it to clear large areas with impressive speed. The self-propelled drive system makes pushing the machine nearly effortless in these conditions.
The chute control allows for precise placement of the discharged snow, easily lofting the light powder far away from the cleared path. For users who primarily deal with this type of snowfall, the machine can feel like an unstoppable force.
The Ultimate Test: Heavy, Wet Snow
Performance in heavy, wet snow—often described as “heart attack snow”—is the ultimate measure of a machine’s capability. This is where the Craftsman’s high-torque engine is critical. It generally has enough power to process this dense snow, but the operator must adjust their technique.
Pushing the machine too fast will overwhelm the auger and impeller, leading to a clogged discharge chute. The key is to use a slower forward speed and, if necessary, clear less than the full 28-inch width on each pass. This allows the machine to process the snow effectively without overloading.
Tackling the End-of-Driveway Plow Pile
The wall of dense, icy snow left by city plows is a formidable obstacle. The Craftsman’s serrated steel augers are designed to break up this compacted material. With a steady, patient approach, the machine can chew its way through these piles.
This is where the machine’s weight and large tires provide a significant advantage, offering the traction needed to push into the dense bank. Attempting to rush this process will only lead to shearing a pin or damaging the machine; slow and steady is the only way.
Common Problems and Actionable Solutions
While powerful, the Craftsman 9 hp 28-inch snowblower is not without its known issues. Many of these machines are older, and years of use can lead to predictable failures. Fortunately, most of these problems are well-documented and can be resolved with basic mechanical knowledge and troubleshooting.
Addressing these potential pain points proactively can mean the difference between a reliable machine that starts every time and a frustrating piece of equipment that fails when you need it most.
Frustration Point: “My Snowblower Won’t Start!”
Failure to start is the most common complaint. More often than not, the issue is related to the fuel system. Modern gasoline, especially that containing ethanol, can go stale in as little as 30 days and leave behind gummy deposits that clog the carburetor’s tiny jets.
The Solution: Always use fresh, stabilized fuel. At the end of the season, either run the machine completely out of gas or drain the tank and carburetor bowl. If the carburetor is already clogged, it will need to be professionally cleaned or replaced.
Persistent Issue: Slipping or Broken Belts
The auger and drive systems are powered by rubber belts that can wear out, stretch, or break over time. A common symptom is the auger failing to turn under load or the wheels failing to propel the machine forward effectively.
The Solution: Belts are a regular wear item and should be inspected annually. Ensure the correct belt size is used and that the tension is set according to the owner’s manual. A misaligned pulley or a failing tensioner spring can also cause premature belt wear.
The Dreaded Clogged Chute
A clogged chute is often a result of operator error rather than a machine flaw. This happens most frequently in wet, heavy snow when the operator is moving too fast for the machine to process the volume of snow being taken in.
The Solution: First, never use your hands to clear a clogged chute. Always stop the engine and use a dedicated clean-out tool. To prevent clogs, treat the inside of the chute and auger housing with a non-stick spray, like a silicone or graphite lubricant, before use. Most importantly, slow down your forward pace in heavy snow.
Maintenance Secrets for Long-Term Reliability
Proper maintenance is the key to ensuring this snowblower provides a decade or more of reliable service. Going beyond the basic pre-season checklist can dramatically reduce the likelihood of in-storm breakdowns and costly repairs.
These simple, yet often overlooked, maintenance steps focus on the machine’s most critical and vulnerable components.
The Overlooked Shear Pins: Your Gearbox’s Best Friend
Shear pins (or shear bolts) are small, soft metal bolts designed to break if the auger hits a solid object like a rock, a thick branch, or a frozen newspaper. This sacrificial failure protects the expensive and complex auger gearbox from catastrophic damage.
Crucial Advice: Never replace a broken shear pin with a standard steel bolt. Doing so defeats the purpose and transfers the destructive force directly to the gearbox. Always have several factory-specified shear pins on hand and check them for wear before each use.
Fuel System Care: Winning the War Against Ethanol
The single most important maintenance task is proper fuel management. Ethanol in fuel attracts water, which can corrode the carburetor and fuel lines. This is the root cause of the majority of starting problems.
Expert Tip: Use a high-quality fuel stabilizer in every can of gas you purchase. At the end of the season, the best practice is to run the machine completely dry. This ensures no fuel is left in the system to degrade and cause blockages during the off-season.
Setting Skid Shoes and the Scraper Bar
The skid shoes on the side of the auger housing and the scraper bar at the back are adjustable wear items that set the clearing height. Improper adjustment can lead to poor performance or damage to the machine or your driveway.
Proper Setup: For smooth, paved surfaces, the scraper bar should be about 1/8 inch off the ground. For gravel or uneven surfaces, raise it higher to avoid picking up and throwing stones. The skid shoes should be adjusted to maintain this height, ensuring the auger housing doesn’t scrape the ground.
The Final Verdict: Is This Craftsman Snowblower Right for You?
The Craftsman 9 hp 28-inch two-stage snowblower is a capable and powerful machine, but it isn’t the perfect solution for everyone. Its value and suitability depend heavily on the user’s needs, property size, and willingness to perform routine maintenance.
It occupies a unique space in the market, offering commercial-grade power at a homeowner-friendly price point, especially when purchased used. However, this value comes with important considerations.
Who is the Ideal User?
This snowblower is best suited for individuals with medium to large-sized paved driveways in regions that receive significant annual snowfall (more than 30 inches). The ideal owner is someone who is comfortable with basic engine maintenance, such as changing oil, spark plugs, and belts.
It is not recommended for small properties, very tight spaces, or for users who want a maintenance-free machine. For those trying to weigh their options against other brands, understanding the key differences is crucial. A deeper analysis can be found when considering an Ariens or Craftsman snowblower, as each brand has its own design philosophy.
Final Recommendation
If you find a well-maintained model or are willing to invest a little time and effort into refurbishing one, the Craftsman 9 hp 28-inch snowblower offers incredible value. Its powerful engine and robust construction can handle some of the worst winter conditions imaginable.
However, potential buyers must be aware of its common failure points, particularly related to the fuel system and belts. With proactive maintenance and proper operating techniques, this snowblower can be a reliable and powerful tool for keeping your driveway clear for many years to come.
