Anybody snowblow with an 520xi?

[bigfkd22 11]

I am think of picking up a 520xi with a 2 stage blower. Obviously it dosent have power steering which is a bummer. Does anybody use this set up? How hard is it to turn? I use my c160 to blow now and it's fairly hard to steer with the weight of the blower on the front. Any thoughts thanks!

D

[Forest Road 594]

The Xi series did use a gear reduction form of steering. They also turn much tighter than the old faithful tractors. I have power steering on my Xi and its wonderful. If the price is right is say go for it. Rib tires from Millers will make it easier to steer.

I have a two stage blower on my 314h. I had to replace all the bushings when I bought it. It's the same blower on the Xi obviously just set up to mount differently.

[bigfkd22 11]

Thanks for the reply. I didn't know the 520xi had any sort of gear reduction steering. I'm just worried as it is already nose heavy plus a 2 stage might not be much easier than my current setup.

[RMCIII 838]

I have the 518 with the single stage. No issues.

[Challenger 27]

My low hour 520xi does not steer as easily as the 520H machines I've owned over the years.  

 

I wish it did.

[RedMaine 1]

I have a 520xi with the 2 stage blower.. It is a very capable machine.  I have no issues with the steering being heavy.  I have a stone dust driveway that is about 300 feet long with several parking pads, curves and vertical changes.  I do get some issues with throwing the stone dust, and I have tried to go a bit too fast at some times, and that has resulted in broken belts.  You can hear the strain on the unit, and just by listening, you can adjust your speed.  It is an amazing tool!  I have wrecked the main impeller, and that was a huge pain to repair, but not impossible for the homeowner.  I am a huge fan and would highly recommend the two stage.  I am in Maine, and get 2 foot dumps, so gauge accordingly!   Mark