Honda HS828 Snowblower: The Unstoppable Winter Beast You Need
When heavy snow blankets your driveway, the last thing you need is a machine that quits. The search for a reliable, powerful snowblower is a common winter challenge. Many machines buckle under the pressure of wet, heavy snow or steep inclines, leaving you with hours of back-breaking work.
This is where the legendary Honda HS828 snowblower enters the conversation. Built between 1991 and 1998, this machine has earned a reputation for durability and performance that rivals even modern equipment. Its continued popularity is a testament to its exceptional engineering and build quality.
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Why the HS828 Remains a Winter Legend
The Honda HS828 isn’t just another snowblower; it’s a piece of winter warfare history. Its design philosophy centers on reliability and raw power, addressing the core problems homeowners face during the harshest storms. Unlike many of its contemporaries, the HS828 was built with commercial-grade components, ensuring it could handle demanding jobs without faltering.
At its core, the appeal lies in its simplicity and strength. There are no overly complicated electronics to fail in freezing temperatures. Instead, you get a machine focused on one thing: moving massive amounts of snow efficiently and reliably.
The Unbeatable Combination: Engine and Transmission
The heart of the HS828 is the robust Honda GX240 engine, an 8-horsepower commercial-grade powerhouse. This engine is renowned for its easy starting, even in bitter cold, and its long-term reliability. Its overhead valve (OHV) design provides better fuel efficiency and lower emissions compared to older engine technologies.
Paired with the engine is a hydrostatic transmission. This is a game-changer. Unlike friction-disc systems that offer set speeds, the hydrostatic drive provides infinitely variable speed control in both forward and reverse. This allows you to perfectly match your ground speed to the snow conditions on the fly, without ever stopping.
Mastering the Terrain: The Unbeatable Track Drive System
Perhaps the most iconic feature of the HS828 is its track drive system. While wheeled models were available, the track-driven versions provide unparalleled traction. They grip icy surfaces, climb steep driveways, and power through deep snow drifts where wheeled blowers would slip and struggle.
The tracks distribute the machine’s weight over a larger area, providing superior stability and control. Furthermore, Honda incorporated an auger height adjustment feature. This allows the operator to raise the auger for clearing gravel driveways or lower it to scrape cleanly on paved surfaces, offering versatility that many other blowers lack.
HS828 Key Specifications at a Glance
Understanding the numbers behind the HS828 highlights why it’s such a capable machine. The combination of a wide clearing path and a powerful engine allows it to move a staggering amount of snow quickly.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | Honda GX240 4-Stroke OHV |
| Horsepower | 8 HP @ 3,600 RPM |
| Clearing Width | 28 inches |
| Clearing Height | 20.1 inches |
| Drive System | Hydrostatic Track Drive |
| Starting System | Recoil (Electric Start Optional) |
| Snow Throwing Distance | Up to 49.2 feet |
| Clearing Capacity | Approximately 50 tons per hour |
| Dry Weight | Approx. 240 lbs |
Operational Excellence: Getting the Most From Your HS828
To operate the HS828 at its peak, technique matters. Always start the engine with the throttle in the CHOKE position when cold, then move it to FAST for operation. The hydrostatic drive is controlled by a single lever, making it intuitive to find the perfect speed for the task at hand.
For heavy, wet snow, use a slower forward speed to allow the auger and impeller to process the snow without clogging. In lighter, powdery snow, you can increase the speed for faster clearing. The key is to let the machine do the work; the track drive will pull the unit forward with minimal effort from you.
Beyond the Basics: Advanced Clearing Techniques
One of the lesser-known advantages of the HS828’s hydrostatic transmission is the ability to “feather” the speed with incredible precision. This is invaluable when navigating tight spaces or getting close to garage doors. You can slow to a crawl without losing power to the auger, a feat that is difficult with gear-driven machines.
When tackling large drifts, don’t try to take a full 28-inch path on the first pass. Instead, shave off smaller portions of the drift. This prevents the engine from bogging down and ensures the snow is thrown a maximum distance, preventing you from having to move the same snow twice.
Long-Term Ownership: Maintenance and Upkeep Secrets
The longevity of a Honda HS828 is legendary, but it’s not accidental. Proper maintenance is the secret to keeping this machine running for decades. Regular upkeep ensures reliability and prevents small issues from becoming major, expensive repairs.
Even a well-built machine requires care, especially when it might be stored in a garage or shed. Proper storage is key, and this is true whether you live in a modern house or are buying a house built in the 1800s with its unique storage challenges. Protect your investment with consistent maintenance.
Essential Maintenance Schedule
Before Each Use: A quick pre-operation check is vital. Inspect the engine oil level and the fuel level. Make sure shear pins are intact and that the auger and chute controls move freely.
Annual Service: At the end of each season, perform a more thorough service. Change the engine oil to remove contaminants. Inspect the spark plug and replace it if the electrode is worn or fouled.
Track and Drivetrain Care: Check the track tension and adjust if necessary to prevent premature wear. Lubricate all moving parts, including cables and linkages. Keeping things moving smoothly is as important for your snowblower as it is for keeping drains clear, where a product like Instant Power vs Drano can make all the difference in flow.
The Secret to Auger and Bucket Longevity
The auger housing, or bucket, takes the most abuse. After each use, clean out any remaining snow and ice to prevent rust. At the end of the season, consider applying a coat of wax or a silicone spray to the inside of the bucket and chute. This makes the surface slicker, helping to prevent clogs and reducing friction.
Pay close attention to the scraper bar and skid shoes. These parts are designed to wear out to protect the more expensive auger housing. For an in-depth look at this machine, see our guide to the Honda snowblower 828. Adjust them properly so the scraper blade just clears the surface, and replace them when they become worn.
Is the Honda HS828 Right For You?
Despite being an older model, the Honda HS828 remains a top-tier machine for those with serious snow removal needs. It is ideal for homeowners with long or steep driveways, those who live in areas with heavy, wet snow, or anyone who values reliability and durability over modern bells and whistles.
If you are looking for a lightweight, easy-to-maneuver machine for a small, flat driveway, the HS828 might be overkill. But for those who face challenging winter conditions, this snowblower is not just a tool; it’s a solution. Its proven track record and robust construction make it a wise investment that can provide decades of dependable service.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key specifications of the Honda HS828 snowblower?
The Honda HS828 snowblower features an 8-horsepower GX240 engine and has a clearing width of 28 inches and a clearing height of 20.1 inches. It is available in both wheel and track drive models, with options for a recoil or electric starter. The HS828 can throw snow up to 49.2 feet and has a snow clearing rate of 50 tons per hour.
What type of oil should I use in my Honda HS828 snowblower?
It is recommended to use a high-detergent, premium quality motor oil that is certified to meet or exceed U.S. automobile manufacturers’ requirements for API Service Classification SG, SF/CC, or CD. SAE 5W-30 is recommended for general, all-temperature use. The engine oil capacity is approximately 1.16 US quarts.
How do I replace a shear pin on the HS828?
To replace a shear pin, first, shut off the engine and disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent accidental starting. Locate the broken shear pin on the auger and remove it. Align the hole on the auger with the hole on the auger shaft, insert the new shear pin, and secure it with a new lock nut.
What is the difference between the HS828 and the HS928 models?
The primary difference between the Honda HS828 and HS928 snowblowers is the engine horsepower. The HS828 is equipped with an 8-horsepower engine (GX240), while the HS928 has a 9-horsepower engine (GX270). Although the engines differ, many parts are interchangeable between these two models.
How can I adjust the clearing height of the auger housing?
The clearing height on track-drive models of the HS828 can be adjusted using a foot pedal. By pressing the pedal, you can raise or lower the auger housing to the desired position to accommodate different surface types and snow depths. After making adjustments, ensure the skid plates on both sides are adjusted equally and the bolts are tightened securely.
Where can I find the serial number on my Honda HS828?
The frame serial number for the Honda HS828 snowblower is located on the back of the machine, near the lower handlebar. This number is important for identifying the specific version of your model when ordering parts. You can also refer to your owner’s manual for more detailed information.
