Honda HS520A information from Consumer Reports

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Honda HS520A

Approximate retail price:

$640.00

We expect this model to perform similarly to the tested Honda HS520AS although it may differ in price and features.

9 people have reviewed this model.

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Type: Single-stage gas models

About - Honda HS520A
The Honda HS520A is a snow blower available from Honda. The HS520A typically costs $640.00. Consumer Reports recommends that you match the features on a model to the needs you have. Here's our take on some of the specifications and features that are commonly available on snow blower models like the HS520A. Engine size: Engine Size is the engine displacement measured in cubic centimeters for gasoline powered engines. Most manufacturers not longer give a horsepower rating. Engine displacement is now the only universal way to compare relative engine size. Electric motors are stated in amps. Electric start: Most models offer a plug-in startng device that saves you the hassle of pull-starting the engine, but you need to be near an outlet. Warranty (yrs.): Manufacturer's stated warranty in years of coverage. In most cases it applies only to consumer use and not commercial use.

About - Honda HS520A

The Honda HS520A is a snow blower available from Honda. The HS520A typically costs $640.00.

Consumer Reports recommends that you match the features on a model to the needs you have. Here's our take on some of the specifications and features that are commonly available on snow blower models like the HS520A.

Engine size:: Engine Size is the engine displacement measured in cubic centimeters for gasoline powered engines. Most manufacturers not longer give a horsepower rating. Engine displacement is now the only universal way to compare relative engine size. Electric motors are stated in amps.
Electric start:: Most models offer a plug-in startng device that saves you the hassle of pull-starting the engine, but you need to be near an outlet.
Warranty (yrs.):: Manufacturer's stated warranty in years of coverage. In most cases it applies only to consumer use and not commercial use.

Tested Model
The Ratings of Honda HS520AS were applied to untested model Honda HS520A, which in our judgment is enough alike in its performance, features, and specs that our test results apply to both.
Honda HS520AS
	Approximate retail price: $750

Features & Specs - Honda HS520A
Engine size Engine Size is the engine displacement measured in cubic centimeters for gasoline powered engines. Most manufacturers not longer give a horsepower rating. Engine displacement is now the only universal way to compare relative engine size. Electric motors are stated in amps. Engine size	161cc
Electric start Most models offer a plug-in startng device that saves you the hassle of pull-starting the engine, but you need to be near an outlet. Electric start	Yes
Multiple speeds For two-stage models, most come with multiple forward speeds and two reverse speeds. The ability to vary ground speed according to snow conditions gets the job done faster. Some of the least expensive two-stage models have only one forward speed. Multiple speeds	No
Single hand controls Most two-stage models have individual lever controls on each side of the handlebar, one engaging the wheel traction and the other for engaging the auger/impeller. This feature allows both control levers to be held down with one hand, leaving the other hand free to adjust the chute controls. Single hand controls	NA
Freewheel steering For two-stage models, this feature, which usually consists of triggers under each handlebar, disengages either or both the left and right drive wheels for easy, sharp turning. Freewheel steering	No
Single lever chute adjustment Only on two-stage models, a single lever or "joystick" on the control panel allows for quick changes to the horizontal discharge direction (the alternative is a hand crank) and to the vertical discharge height (the alternative is leaving the operator position and manual adjustment) all with a single lever. Single lever chute adjustment	No
Headlight This eases snow throwing at night or in low-light situations. Headlight	No
Heated handgrips Heated handgrips are a nicety, though they don't replace a good pair of gloves. Heated handgrips	No
Warranty (yrs.) Manufacturer's stated warranty in years of coverage. In most cases it applies only to consumer use and not commercial use. Warranty (yrs.)	2
More features and specs

User Reviews - Honda HS520A

Consumer Reports User Reviews

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Anonymous

from

Iowa

4.0

Excellent function and power

1/18/2012

Pros

Clears quickly

Clears to the Pavement

Easy to Start

Handles the plow pile

Handles wet snow

Lightweight

Maneuverable

Relatively quiet

Throws Far

Works in minimal snow

Cons

Concrete surfaces only

No throttle

Best Uses

Driveway

Comment:

Not sure why this unit is rated so low. It is a snow moving beast! 8-12 drifts disappear as fast as you can push and manoever the unit. And it cleans right to the concrete surface which is a real plus. It even throws wet snow at least 20ft, which was a surprise to me. Th harder you push it the farther it throws!<br /><br />My only complaint is the lack of a throttle for warm up / cool down, as well as to limit the throwing distance. I highly recommend the unit to anyone with an average sized concrete or asphalt drive

Anonymous

from

Wisconsin

5.0

Awesome Blower

3/26/2011

Pros

Clears to the Pavement

Lightweight

Maneuverable

Throws Far

Cons

Best Uses

Driveway

Comment:

Starts first pull every time. Fast and efficient. Much better than my two stage toro that cost twice as much. Easy simple controls, my wife can actually use it. You don't need the electric start. Save the $100 for the electric start and go out to dinner.

Anonymous

from

Mahopac, NY

(2 of 2 customers found this review helpful)

5.0

Talk about durability and consistency

3/7/2011

Pros

Clears to the Pavement

Easy to service at home

Lasts for years

Starts on the first pull

Cons

Best Uses

Driveway

Comment:

This is the 30th year (that's right 30) for my Honda snowblower and it still starts on the first pull every time. (Actually after summer storage it starts on the second pull.) I've had the rubber on the auger changed 2 or 3 times. I change the plug every 2-3 years and the oil after each winter before I store it. I also use Honda mowers and am on my 3rd in 30 years. The first 2 each lasted about 13 years, but needed some service so I traded them in for parts and got a discount at a local power tools store. You can't beat Honda engines, cables and safety. My driveway is a 60x10 uphill and a 30x25 level area at the bottom.

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