Honda HS928 Review, Years Made, Pros & Cons: Your Ultimate Guide Before Buying Used
You’ve found a used Honda HS928 snow blower for sale. The price seems right, and you know Honda’s reputation for ironclad reliability. But a critical question looms: what year is it? This isn’t just trivia; knowing the specific production years is one of the most important factors in your purchasing decision, directly impacting the machine’s features, value, and future parts availability.
The problem is that finding a clear, concise list of Honda HS928 production years can be frustratingly difficult. Sellers often don’t know the exact year, and without this key piece of information, you’re essentially buying blind, unable to determine if you’re getting a great deal on a recent model or overpaying for a machine that’s seen two decades of harsh winters.
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Why Knowing Your HS928’s Year is Non-Negotiable
Understanding the manufacturing date of a potential HS928 is crucial for several reasons. Honda incrementally improved these machines over their long production run. An older model might lack the refinements and updated features of a newer one, and parts could become more scarce over time. This knowledge gap can lead to buyer’s remorse, unexpected repair costs, and the hassle of owning an outdated piece of equipment.
From engine specifications to subtle design changes, the production year tells a story about the snow blower’s capabilities and potential quirks. It empowers you to assess its fair market value accurately and ensures you can source the correct maintenance parts for years to come. Without it, you risk costly guesswork and potential compatibility issues down the road.
Decoding the Honda HS928: A Complete Production Year Guide
The Honda HS928 series had a remarkably long and successful production run, stretching from approximately 1998 to 2015. After 2015, it was succeeded by the updated HSS928 series, which introduced new features like joystick chute control and steering assist. This long lifespan means there’s a wide variety of used models on the market, each with its own history.
To make an informed decision, it’s essential to identify the specific model variant you’re looking at. Honda produced several versions of the HS928, primarily distinguished by their drive system (wheels vs. tracks) and starting mechanism (recoil vs. electric). These differences are encoded in the model name, providing the first clue to its features and intended use.
How to Find the Serial Number on Your HS928
Before you can pinpoint the year, you must locate the frame serial number. This is the unique identifier for your specific machine. On the Honda HS928, the frame serial number is typically found on a metal plate or sticker located on the rear of the machine, often low on the frame near the wheels or tracks. It is crucial to have this number when ordering parts or making technical inquiries.
The owner’s manual explicitly points out the location of both the engine and frame serial numbers, emphasizing their importance for service and warranty claims. Always record these numbers as soon as you acquire a machine. This simple step can save you significant trouble later on.
Understanding the Serial Number Format
Honda power equipment does not use a simple model year system like automobiles. Instead, they use prefixes and K-numbers within the serial and model numbers to denote production runs and significant changes. For example, a serial number for a US-spec HS928 might start with a prefix like “SZAS” or “SAVJ”. These prefixes are key identifiers for parts lookup and determining the machine’s origin and version.
While you can’t decode the exact date from the number alone, these prefixes tell a service technician or a knowledgeable owner which specific parts diagrams and service bulletins apply to that machine. This system allows for continuous improvement during the manufacturing process without changing the main model number every year.
Key Changes and Upgrades by Model Year
Over its nearly two-decade run, the HS928 saw several important updates. The core of the machine remained its powerful and reliable Honda GX series engine, with the GX270 being a mainstay. However, refinements were made to enhance user experience and performance.
In 2011, for instance, Honda introduced models with a newly designed high-torque GX270 engine, taller handlebars for better ergonomics, and a standard factory-installed work light. These models also featured improved cold-weather performance to prevent carburetor icing. Being able to identify these later-production models can mean getting a machine with valuable factory upgrades.
| Model Variant | Drive System | Starting System | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| HS928WA | Wheel Drive | Recoil (Manual) | Hydrostatic drive, 28-inch clearing width. |
| HS928WAS | Wheel Drive | 120V Electric Start | Adds convenience of electric starting. |
| HS928TA | Track Drive | Recoil (Manual) | Superior traction, pedal-adjustable auger height. |
| HS928TAS | Track Drive | 120V Electric Start | Top-of-the-line model combining track drive with electric start. |
Common Problems in Older HS928 Models (And How to Fix Them)
Even a machine as durable as the HS928 can experience age-related issues. The most common problem, often stemming from improper off-season storage, is a clogged carburetor. Old fuel can turn to varnish, blocking tiny passages and preventing the engine from starting or running smoothly. The solution is to drain old fuel, clean the carburetor jets, or install a carburetor kit.
Another area to inspect on older models is the drive system. For wheeled models, check the tires for cracks and proper inflation. For track models, inspect the rubber tracks for cracking or excessive wear. It’s also wise to check the hydrostatic transmission fluid level and condition, as this is vital for the self-propelled function. Sometimes a complex mechanical issue, like a transmission that won’t engage, requires methodical troubleshooting similar to figuring out why a pocket door is stuck in the wall; you have to trace the problem from the controls down to the mechanical parts.
Is a Used Honda HS928 Still a Good Investment?
Absolutely. A well-maintained Honda HS928 is a fantastic investment and a “pitbull” of a machine that can provide decades of reliable service. Its largely mechanical design, compared to the more electronic-heavy newer models, makes it easier for a home mechanic to work on. Many owners prefer the simplicity and proven longevity of the Japanese-made HS models.
When inspecting a used HS928, go beyond the basics. Check the auger housing and scraper bar for excessive wear, which can indicate that the skid shoes were improperly adjusted and the machine was ground down on pavement. Feel for play in the auger bearings by wiggling the augers. Also, shine a light inside the fuel tank to check for rust, a sign of moisture and potential fuel system contamination. The weight of these machines is substantial, so be prepared for the physical effort required to move it around, a challenge not unlike trying to figure out how to lift a dryer by yourself—proper technique and leverage are key.
The Successor: What Replaced the Honda HS928?
In 2015, Honda transitioned from the HS928 to the HSS928. The new “HSS” series brought significant upgrades aimed at user convenience. The most notable changes were the introduction of fingertip steering controls, which make maneuvering the heavy machine much easier, and an electric joystick for chute rotation and deflection.
While these features are desirable, they also add complexity and more electronic components that could potentially fail. The HSS models also feature a sealed hydrostatic transmission, unlike the serviceable unit in the HS series. This trade-off between modern features and mechanical simplicity is a key reason why many still seek out the older, robust HS928 models.
Conclusion: Your HS928 Year Matters
The Honda HS928 is more than just a snow blower; it’s a long-term investment in reliability. Understanding the specific years it was made, from its introduction around 1998 to its final models in 2015, is the foundation of a smart purchase. By locating the serial number, identifying the specific model variant, and performing a thorough inspection for age-related issues, you can confidently buy a used HS928.
This knowledge protects you from overpaying and equips you to properly maintain your machine. Armed with this information, you can find a dependable, powerful snow blower that will serve you faithfully through even the most brutal winters for many years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What years was the Honda HS928 snowblower made?
The Honda HS928 snowblower was produced from 1998 to 2015. In 2011, Honda introduced new versions of the HS928, including the HS928WA, HS928WAS, HS928TA, and HS928TAS, which replaced the previous HS928 models. The HS928 series was succeeded by the HSS928 models starting in 2015.
How can I find the exact year of my Honda HS928?
Honda power equipment does not use specific model years for its products in the same way the auto industry does. Instead, they use a K-number (like K0, K1) to denote significant production changes. For detailed information about a specific machine’s manufacturing date, it is best to contact a Honda dealer with the unit’s serial number.
What model replaced the Honda HS928?
The Honda HS928 series was succeeded by the HSS928 series of snowblowers. In the United States, the rollout of the newer HSS models began in 2015.
Were there different variations of the HS928?
Yes, Honda offered several versions of the HS928, especially with the 2011 update. These models were available in both wheel-driven (WA and WAS) and track-driven (TA and TAS) configurations to handle different terrains. There was also a choice between manual and electric starting.
What engine was used in the Honda HS928?
The updated Honda HS928 models introduced in 2011 were equipped with a high-torque Honda GX270 overhead valve (OHV) engine. This commercial-grade engine was a key feature of the HS928 series, known for its reliability and power in demanding snow-clearing conditions.
