The Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO draws praise for its powerful 306 cc engine and how much snow it throws, heavy wet snow included. Reviewers found the Auto-Turn steering system intuitive and easy to use once you spend a little time adjusting to it. Traction is good, the build is meant to last, and at around $1,699 it is a solid value. Setup is the sore spot: some users reported insufficient lubrication and misaligned components that required dealer attention. It fits buyers who want high capacity and durability, not those after premium features or a less expensive machine.
Full review
Performance in Real-World Conditions
The Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO demonstrates impressive real-world performance, particularly in its throwing capabilities. MovingSnow.com's reviewer noted that the 306cc engine delivers more power than the standard 254cc model, with the SHO impeller system enabling it to throw 15-20 inches of heavy wet snow effectively. The machine achieves a maximum throwing distance of 55 feet, which is among the highest in its class according to Mowtown Equipment's specifications. The Auto-Turn steering system provides intuitive directional control, though users report needing time to adjust to its operation, similar to a push mower with caster wheels. Testers found that the machine handles various snow conditions well, from light powder to packed snow plow drifts, with good traction on paved surfaces.
Professional testing revealed the Deluxe 28 SHO can move up to 72 tons of snow per hour, as noted by Mowtown Equipment, making it one of the most capable two-stage blowers in its price range. The 14-inch serrated steel auger effectively chews through snow, while the disc-o-matic drive system provides six forward speeds for optimal performance across different conditions. However, Reddit user iceman8 reported encountering issues with insufficient lubrication during initial setup, requiring manual oiling of the chain and gears. This indicates that while the machine performs well when properly maintained, factory assembly quality may vary, as noted by the same user who found misaligned auger housing and difficulty reinstalling the bottom inspection cover.
Handle may be too tall for shorter users
The Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO showcases robust construction with a cast iron gear case designed for extreme conditions, according to Mowtown Equipment's specifications. The machine features a re-balanced axle system relocated on the frame to improve Auto-Turn steering performance, which is a significant design improvement over previous models. The 16-inch directional snow tread tires provide necessary grip on hard-packed snow, and the 28-inch clearing width ensures efficient coverage. The in-dash remote chute control allows 200-degree rotation and discharge angle adjustment from the operator's position, with interlocking controls enabling one-handed chute adjustment while moving. The molded friction disk system reduces overall parts count and simplifies servicing, though this design may present challenges for maintenance as noted by the Snowblower Forum user who experienced difficulty with the bottom inspection cover installation.
Design elements include a 21-inch housing height that devours snow effectively before throwing it, and a 14-inch steel 3-blade SHO impeller that spins faster than standard models due to modified belts and pulleys. The 306cc Ariens AX302 engine is built to perform in cold temperatures up to two hours, with a 120V electric start and recoil backup system. The machine weighs 267.5 pounds and measures 58.6 inches in length, 29.9 inches in width, and 45.3 inches in height. However, some reviewers have noted that the handle height may be too high for users under 5'7", though this is offset by better leverage for pushing down and turning the machine. The 16-inch snow tread tires provide good traction but may struggle with very rough surfaces like cracked concrete or gravel driveways where the machine might catch on obstructions.
Auto-Turn steering feels like a caster-wheeled push mower
Users consistently praise the Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO for its throwing distance and overall value proposition. MovingSnow.com's reviewer highlighted that the SHO impeller system makes this snow blower throw farther than most other walk-behind models, with the 306cc engine providing more power than expected. The Auto-Turn steering system received particular acclaim for its ease of use, with the reviewer comparing it to a push mower with caster wheels, noting that it's easy to turn but requires some adjustment to maintain straight lines. The machine's ability to handle various snow conditions, from light powder to packed snow plow drifts, was also noted as a significant advantage. Many reviewers appreciated the simple and robust chute rotation control system, which stays in place and is easy to operate.
The price point was cited as the best feature by MovingSnow.com's reviewer, who called it one of the best values on the market for about $1200 when they tested it in 2016. Mowtown Equipment's promotional materials emphasize the machine's durability and performance, noting that it's built to last and offers high-capacity snow removal without premium features that might wear out quickly. The 3-year residential warranty and 90-day commercial warranty provide additional peace of mind for consumers. Users also appreciated the electric start system with recoil backup, which starts easily according to the same reviewer who tested it. The machine's ability to clear 72 tons of snow per hour, as specified by Mowtown Equipment, makes it a strong contender for heavy-duty residential use.
Auto-Turn can veer on packed snow
Despite its strengths, the Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO has several notable drawbacks that reviewers have identified. One significant issue involves the Auto-Turn steering system, which some users find problematic. Snowblower Forum member JiminRI reported that the auto-turn feature can be problematic on uneven surfaces or frozen areas, requiring adjustment or the use of poly skids to resolve tracking issues. The system may not work properly on previously cleared areas where snow has been packed by vehicles, causing the machine to veer off course even when properly set up. Additionally, the machine's first gear is reportedly faster than expected, which can be disorienting for users accustomed to other models, as noted by the MovingSnow.com reviewer.
Maintenance and setup challenges were also reported by users. Reddit user iceman8 found insufficient lubrication during initial setup, requiring manual oiling of the chain and gears, and noted that the bottom inspection cover was difficult to reinstall due to misaligned bolts and clip retainers. The machine's weight of 267.5 pounds may be challenging for smaller users, and the handle height could be uncomfortable for those under 5'7". The chute rotation control requires reaching over the dash to turn the crank, which may be uncomfortable for shorter users. Some reviewers have noted that the gas cap design is problematic, as mentioned by GoBlowSnow in the Snowblower Forum, where users found it difficult to operate in cold conditions.
Rated to move 72 tons of snow an hour
The Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO is best suited for homeowners with medium to large driveways who need a reliable, high-capacity snow blower for heavy snow conditions. The machine's 28-inch clearing width and 72-ton per hour capacity make it ideal for properties that receive significant snowfall, particularly those with paved surfaces where traction is not an issue. MovingSnow.com's reviewer recommended it for users who want a heavy-duty, high-capacity snow blower built to last, especially those who value simplicity over premium features. The machine is particularly well-suited for users who clear their own driveways and have the physical ability to handle its weight of 267.5 pounds.
However, the machine may not be ideal for users with very rough or uneven surfaces like cracked concrete or gravel driveways, where the machine might catch on obstructions. The Auto-Turn steering system can be problematic on previously cleared areas with packed snow, requiring either adjustment or the use of poly skids. Users under 5'7" may find the handle height uncomfortable, though this is offset by better leverage for pushing down and turning. The machine's first gear speed may be disorienting for those accustomed to slower models, and the chute rotation control requires reaching over the dash, which could be uncomfortable for shorter users. The machine is also not recommended for users who need to frequently adjust the chute while operating in cold conditions due to the design of the gas cap.
306cc engine beats the standard 254cc
When compared to similar models like the Troy-Bilt Vortex mentioned by MovingSnow.com, the Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO offers more power and throwing distance. The 306cc engine provides more power than the 254cc engine in the standard model, and the SHO impeller system delivers superior performance. However, the Troy-Bilt Vortex may offer better gear ratios for users who need more precise control in tight spaces. The Ariens model's Auto-Turn system is considered superior to traditional trigger steering systems, though it requires adjustment for optimal performance on uneven surfaces. Mowtown Equipment's specifications indicate that the Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO can move 72 tons of snow per hour, which is competitive with other high-end models in its category.
Compared to competitors like Cub Cadet, the Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO offers comparable performance with a more robust construction and better throwing capabilities. While Cub Cadet models may offer IntelliPower technology that automatically adjusts to snow conditions, the Ariens model provides unmatched durability for heavy-duty use and demanding conditions. The Ariens model's 3-year residential warranty and 90-day commercial warranty are competitive with other premium brands, though some users have reported issues with factory assembly quality. The Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO's price point of approximately $1,699 makes it a strong value proposition compared to similar high-capacity models from competitors, though some users have noted that dealers may charge over MSRP, as reported by iceman8 who paid $1749 for a model that should have cost around $1349.
Some dealers charge well over the $1,699 list price
The Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO offers exceptional value for its price point, as noted by MovingSnow.com's reviewer who called it one of the best values on the market for about $1200 back in 2016. Mowtown Equipment's promotional materials emphasize that the machine provides high-capacity snow removal without premium features that might wear out quickly, making it a cost-effective choice for homeowners who need reliable performance. The machine's ability to move 72 tons of snow per hour, combined with its durable construction and 3-year residential warranty, makes it a strong contender in its price range. The absence of electric chute motors and joysticks, which are prone to wear, adds to the machine's long-term value proposition.
However, some reviewers have noted that dealers may charge over MSRP, as reported by iceman8 who paid $1749 for a model that should have cost around $1349. The machine's price point of approximately $1,699 reflects its high-end features including the 306cc engine, 14-inch serrated steel auger, and SHO impeller system. The 3-year residential warranty and 90-day commercial warranty provide good protection for consumers, though some users have reported issues with factory assembly quality that may require additional maintenance. Despite these concerns, the overall value proposition remains strong for homeowners who need a reliable, high-capacity snow blower for heavy snow conditions.
Factory assembly quality can vary
Based on professional reviews and user experiences, the Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO demonstrates solid long-term durability, particularly in its construction and materials. The cast iron gear case is designed for extreme conditions, and the 306cc Ariens AX302 engine is built to perform in cold temperatures up to two hours. MovingSnow.com's reviewer noted that the machine is built to last and is a good high-capacity snow blower. The re-balanced axle system and improved Auto-Turn steering feature contribute to overall performance and longevity. Mowtown Equipment's specifications highlight that the machine comes with a 3-year residential warranty and 90-day commercial warranty, which provides good protection for consumers.
However, some users have reported concerns about factory assembly quality, as noted by iceman8 who found insufficient lubrication during initial setup and difficulty reinstalling the bottom inspection cover. The machine's design features like the molded friction disk system may simplify servicing but could present challenges for maintenance. The 16-inch directional snow tread tires provide good traction but may require replacement over time. The 14-inch steel 3-blade SHO impeller system, while providing superior performance, may require periodic maintenance to ensure optimal operation. Overall, while the machine shows good durability in testing, some users have noted that factory assembly quality may vary, requiring additional attention during initial setup.
Strengths
- +306 cc engine with plenty of power for the size
- +Excellent snow throwing distance and performance with heavy wet snow
- +Auto-Turn steering is easy to use and makes turning simple
- +Good traction on various surfaces including snow plow drifts
Watch-outs
- −First gear is faster than expected, requiring adjustment time
- −Chute rotation control requires reaching over the dash to operate
How it compares
The Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO delivers the most powerful engine in the group with 306 cc, outperforming the Toro Power Max 824 and EGO models. However, it lacks the lightweight, user-friendly features of the single-stage Toro models and is not as versatile in terms of chute control compared to the Ariens Deluxe 24, which offers better maneuverability.
Rating sources
Our 4.0 score is the average of these published ratings. Ratings marked * were derived from the reviewer’s written analysis or video transcript — the publisher didn’t print an explicit numeric score, so we inferred one from their own words. Click through to verify. More about methodology.
