Quote:
Originally Posted by Shaun @ Tru6
Great stuff Robert, thank you for posting! Since I will be buying used, is there a better year range than others? I am sure a wheel model would be fine for me, no hill, but the tracks are so cool they are sort of a must have. Are Thai engines as good as Japanese engines?
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So Honda snowblowers, mowers, etc. don't have model years like cars. Instead, they have a code called a K-number. The K-number changes only when the product does, so a model may remain at the K0 or K1 version for years. I believe all the new Honda 2-stage models are at the initial K0 version right now. A dealer would be able to tell you for sure.
The older, Japan-built models are "HS928T" or "HS724W"
• HS = first gen, made in Japan
• 9 = horsepower
• 28 = clearing width
• T (or W) = track or wheel
• S = 120V electric start
The made in USA models are "
HSS_____"
• HSS = 2nd gen, made in USA
• S = 12V on-board battery for electric start
Tip: Find the
frame serial number (format is SA__-1234567) on a used unit, and call Honda Customer Service to find out if there is any warranty remaining. The 3-year warranty stays with the blower, even when sold used. Honda Customer Service:
https://powerequipment.honda.com/support/contact-us
The Honda plant in Thailand adheres to the same QC and best practices as other Honda locations, including Japan. I believe all Honda engines > 200cc < 700cc are built at the Thai plant. (Smaller engines--mostly for lawn mowers are cast, machined, and assembled at the Swepsonville, NC plant.)