The best way to break down the numerous product features of the new Honda HS928 and HS1332 snowblower models is to describe them via four major categories: ease of work, operability, toughness, and noise reduction/fuel economy. The following diagram outlines these key features as they relate to the individual categories - both for track and wheel type models. In the following pages, each feature is individually detailed with graphics to depict corresponding benefits.
Ease of work
Egg-shaped disk. When it comes to replacing the shear bolt on a snowblower, the design of the machine dictates the ease with which the part can be changed. On most snowblowers, two shear bolts typically connect the auger to the auger shaft. These bolts feature specially designed grooves, allowing them to break if there is too much torque - preventing damage to the gear case and auger shaft. If two-stage snowblowers are not built with shear bolts, a snow-covered newspaper or a curb could cause hundreds of dollars in damage. By extension, it is not uncommon to have to replace the shear bolts during operation.
On the all-new Honda HS1332 snowblowers, for example, the design allows for a simple and easy shear bolt replacement. These models are equipped with an egg-shaped disk that allows for almost effortless removal, alignment, and replacement of the shear bolt(s) when required. The following diagram depicts the design and replacement approach.
Impeller. The new Honda HS928 and HS1332 snowblowers incorporate an improved design which serves to maximize snow-throwing distance and improve durability (over models they replace). In the new models, the shape of the impeller is modified to allow for these enhancements (see below illustration).
Impeller speed. In addition to snow-throwing distance being increased, operational noise also is reduced on the new HS928 and HS1332 snowblower models.
These improvements are due, largely in part, to adjustments in ratio of both the engine-side pulley and impeller-side pulley. Through the adjustment, maximum engine speed is reduced (causing a reduction in operational noise); maximum blower speed also is increased (resulting in an increase in snow-throwing distance).
2-ply rated tires. The new wheel-equipped Honda HS928 and HS1332 snowblower models have 2-ply rated (2 PR) tires with increased rigidity. This increased rigidity improves the overall stability of the body of the snowblowers.
Electric two-stage shooter. An electric two-stage shooter (controlled by an easy-to-use operating lever) on the new Honda HS928 and HS1332 models allows for better control of the direction snow is thrown. With the two-stage shooter, the direction of snow can be adjusted more widely. The below diagram illustrates this improvement over existing models.
Toughness
Shear bolt guard. The HS928 and HS1332 models are equipped with exceptionally durable shear bolts (see above discussion). In addition, when the auger gets caught in debris, a sensor detects the problem and the snowblower engine automatically stops. In conjunction with the operation of the shear bolt guard, the snowblower’s limit switch (inside the auger transmission) detects when the auger is locked.
Icing guard. The Honda HS928 and HS1332 snowblowers are designed with an icing guard that prevents the carburetor from freezing in cold temperatures. This is accomplished via an air guide that directs heat from the engine to warm the carburetor.
Long-life skid. The new Honda HS928 and HS1332 snowblowers include long-life skids - devices that help avoid damage and keep the snowblower in smooth control over cracks and other uneven surfaces - as part of the improved design. On the new Honda snowblower models, the skid has been redesigned - incorporating a modified material and shape to improve durability and wear. For example, the skid can be switched upside down when certain areas get worn and the position of the skid can be changed depending on the snow quality (heavy snow vs. light snow).
Noise Reduction/Fuel Economy
Honda GX270 and GX390 commercial grade engines provide premium power for the Honda HS928 and HS1332 snowblowers, respectively - resulting in low noise, vibration, fuel consumption and emissions.
More specifically, the low noise of the new HS928 and HS1332 snowblowers is attributed, in part, to the redesign of the inner construction of the muffler on the GX engines. And, low vibration for the snowblowers is a result of the superior ignition timing for the GX270 and GX390 engines.