Is the Toro Power Max HD 28 worth it over a shear-pin blower?

If you break shear pins often or face wet, heavy snow, the stronger gearbox is the main reason to choose it. For light snow and small driveways, a smaller two-stage or single-stage model does the job with less weight.

How does it compare with Toro's smaller Power Max models?

The HD 28 adds the commercial-grade gearbox, a wider 28-inch auger housing and the 252cc engine. Smaller Power Max models use shear pins and narrower widths, so they cost less and are easier to handle but stall more in dense snow.

Does it handle wet, heavy snow?

Yes. The anti-clog intake and gearbox-driven auger are built for slush and plow-pile snow, and owners report few clogs. Very deep, icy banks may still need a slower pass.

What kind of fuel and maintenance does it need?

It runs on regular gasoline with a 4-cycle engine, so no oil mixing. Expect annual oil changes, spark plug checks and fuel stabilizer or draining for off-season storage.

What is included with the snow blower?

It ships as a complete unit with the engine, auger housing, chute and tires; some assembly of the chute and controls is typically required. Check the box for the owner's manual and any included tools.

Can I use it on gravel or uneven ground?

The 16-inch never-flat tires and self-propelled drive handle gravel and slopes, but set the skid shoes high so the auger does not pick up stones. It is best on paved driveways.

Where can I buy the Toro Power Max HD 28 Inch Self Propelled Gas Snow Blower?

2 stores we checked sell it, including Ace Hardware, Lowe's.

Toro Power Max HD 28 Inch Self Propelled Gas Snow Blower

Q: Where is the Toro Power Max HD 28 Inch Self Propelled Gas Snow Blower cheapest?

At Ace Hardware, for $1,749.00, as of our latest check.

Best price now

$1,749.00at Ace HardwareChecked Nov 8

Compared across 2 stores. Prices are checked against each store and labelled with when. Store links may earn us a commission. Price via Klarna.

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What reviewers say

Owners of the Power Max HD line generally praise the strong engine and the gearbox that ends shear-pin breakage, and they like the one-hand chute control. Complaints center on weight, noise and the learning curve of steering a large two-stage in tight areas.

What people mention

Gearbox durabilityPraisedOwners say the steel gearbox survives hits that would snap shear pins on other machines.
Snow throwingPraisedReviewers report it clears wet, heavy snow and plow piles without clogging the intake.
WeightCriticisedOwners find it heavy to push and turn, especially in tight driveways.
NoiseCriticisedThe gas engine is loud compared with battery-powered two-stage blowers.
Chute controlPraisedThe one-hand Quick Stick lets owners aim the chute while still steering.

About the Toro Power Max HD 28 Inch Self Propelled Gas Snow Blower

The Toro Power Max HD 28 Inch Self Propelled Gas Snow Blower is a red, gas-powered snow blower with a 28-inch size. It runs on a Toro 252cc 4-cycle OHV engine and is self-propelled.

It has a commercial-grade steel gearbox that Toro says is built twice as strong as shear pin designs. The anti-clog intake handles wet, heavy snow. It throws snow up to 49 feet in a single pass.

An all-metal Quick Stick lets the user aim the discharge chute with one hand. The 16-inch Never-Flat tires are part of the build.

Type

Self-propelled gas snow blower

Size

28 inches

Engine

Toro 252cc 4-cycle OHV

Throwing distance

Up to 49 ft in a single pass

Gearbox

Commercial-grade steel

Tires