Toro 18 Inch Snow Blower Review

Hey there! Let’s talk about a winter warrior, the Toro Power Clear 518 ZE with an 18-inch clearing width. I’ve been using this beast for five years, and it’s time to share the scoop on how it handles the snowy season.

The Toro 518 ZE isn’t just any snow blower. It’s got an electric starter, but you can also fire it up with a pull start if that’s more your style. Designed for residential use, it perfectly balances power and usability.

$599.00 Price on Home Depot

Specifications of Toro 18 Inch Snow Blower

• Size: 45″ long, 36.5″ tall, 18.7″ wide
• Clearing: 18″ width, 12″ height, good for 9″ snow depth
• Auger: 7″ rubber
• Chute: Plastic, turns 210°
• Engine: 99 cc, 4.4 ft-lb torque, 0.35-gallon tank
• Performance: Throws snow 25 feet, clears 1100 lbs/min
• Features: Self-propelled, electric start, variable speeds
• Weight: 59 lbs
• Tires: 6″ high, 1.5″ wide
• Fuel: Gas, 12 oz oil capacity, use 5W-30 oil
• Other: Needs assembly, 2-year warranty, best for paved surfaces

Performance Review

The Toro Power Clear 518 ZE Snow Blower has truly been put through its paces in my hands. It’s faced everything from gentle, light dustings to the demanding challenges of hefty snowfalls and emerged as a champion every time. Boasting an 18-inch clearing width coupled with a 12-inch intake height, it fearlessly takes on daunting snowbanks, effortlessly clearing the space around vehicles and beyond.

In practice, the snow blower’s capabilities shine, especially when dealing with the kind of heavy snow that typically spells trouble. Whether it’s clearing wide walkways or navigating tight spaces, the Toro handles it with ease, making an otherwise strenuous task feel surprisingly simple. It’s not just about moving snow; it’s about transforming a strenuous winter chore into an easy, almost enjoyable task.

Ease of Use

The simplicity of operating the Toro Power Clear 518 ZE Snow Blower is one of its standout features. Initiating its action is as straightforward as hitting a button, thanks to the electric start function. This feature becomes particularly invaluable on those chilly winter mornings when the thought of a manual start is less than appealing. However, should the need arise for a traditional start, the pull-start mechanism is dependable and smooth.

One of the most user-friendly aspects of this snow blower is its self-propelled drive. This design element significantly reduces the physical effort required to move the machine. Instead of wrestling with the blower, you guide it along its path, making the snow clearing task feel less strenuous and more manageable.

Durability and Maintenance

In terms of upkeep, I’ve had to get a little creative. The screws on the chute control loosened over time, so I used wire to keep everything together. Apart from that, it’s been smooth sailing without even needing an oil change.

Toro Power Clear 518 ZE Manual Here: https://manuals.toro.com/97461/

Features to Highlight

• Power Clear Technology: It slices through snow, reducing clogging and making each pass count.
• Adjustable Chute: With a 210-degree rotation, you can throw snow exactly where you need to.
• Compact and Storage-Friendly: Despite its power, it’s designed to fit snugly in your garage or shed.
• Quick Start: It lives up to the promise of starting within one or two pulls.

Toro 18 Inch Snow Blower Review Price Point

At $599, available at Home Depot, the Toro Power Clear 518 ZE Snow Blower indeed represents a significant investment. Yet, when you weigh the benefits – the hours saved shoveling snow, the ease of use with its electric start, and the physical strain it reduces – the value becomes clear. This machine isn’t just about clearing snow; it’s about enhancing your winter experience, making it less of a chore and more manageable. In terms of long-term use and durability, the Toro 518 ZE stands out as a worthwhile purchase, potentially saving you from future costs associated with manual snow removal or less durable machines.

How to start Toro Power Clear 518 ZE Snow Blower

To start the Toro Power Clear 518 ZE Snow Blower, follow these simple steps:

1st Step: Locate the plug-in point on the snow blower and connect your extension cord securely.

2nd Step: Flip the choke lever to the fully open position to ensure the engine receives the right mix of fuel and air for starting.

3rd Step: Make sure the safety key is inserted into its slot. This is an important safety feature that enables the snow blower to start.

4th Step: With the choke open and the key in place, press the start button to engage the electric starter and bring the engine to life.

Pros and Cons of Toro 18 Inch Snow Blower

Pros

• I’ve found the 18-inch clearing width and 12-inch intake height to be quite sufficient for regular snowfalls. It plows through about 9 inches of snow without a hitch, making it a reliable companion for my medium-sized driveway.
• The Power Clear Technology is a lifesaver. I’ve tackled multiple snow types, from fluffy to wet and heavy, and this machine just keeps going, minimizing any clogging issues that I’ve faced with other models.
• Starting it up is a breeze with the electric start—no more wrestling with a pull cord in the freezing cold. And the adjustable chute with its wide rotation angle makes directing snow away from walkways and driveways simple.
• Its compact design is perfect for my limited garage space. I appreciate how it doesn’t demand much room, leaving space for other essential tools and equipment.

Cons

• For those epic snowfalls, the Toro can be a bit underwhelming. It’s great for regular snow but can struggle with the back-breaking, knee-deep blizzards we occasionally get.
• I’ve had to jury-rig the chute control with wire after some screws came loose, which was unexpected. It wasn’t a deal-breaker but definitely something to watch out for.
• The lack of a self-propelled feature means I’m pushing it around, which is fine for smaller areas but can be a bit of a workout after a heavy snowfall or on larger properties.
• At $599, it’s a significant investment, especially if you need to buy the battery and charger separately. It’s worth considering how much you’re willing to spend versus the snow blower’s capabilities.

Comparative Analysis: Toro Power Clear 518 ZE vs. Honda HS720AA

Engine	99 cc Toro OHV 4-cycle	190 cc Honda OHC 4-cycle
Clearing Width	18 inches	20 inches
Intake Height	12 inches	12 inches
Starting Mechanism	Electric start and pull	Pull start
Throwing Distance	Up to 25 feet	Up to 33 feet
Drive System	Self-propelled	Manual push
Weight	59 lbs	89 lbs
Price	$599	$779.00

Summary: The Toro Power Clear 518 ZE offers a balance of functionality and ease of use with its self-propelled drive and electric start at a more budget-friendly price, making it suitable for lighter to moderate snowfalls. The Honda HS720AA, with a more powerful engine and wider clearing path, is built for heavier snow conditions, offering a longer throwing distance and larger clearing width but requires manual effort to push and comes at a higher cost. Your choice should depend on the typical snow conditions in your area, budget considerations, and preference for ease of operation.

Final Thoughts

For those with medium-sized driveways and looking for a machine that’s easy to handle and store, the Toro 518 ZE could be your winter lifesaver. Its performance, combined with the ease of use and minimal maintenance, makes it a solid choice for battling the snow. After five years, I’m still impressed by the Toro 518 ZE’s reliability and performance. Whether it’s fluffy flakes or a snowy onslaught, this snow blower stands up to the challenge, making it a trusty companion for anyone looking to ease the burden of winter chores.

FAQs

1. Can the Toro 518 ZE handle the end-of-driveway snow pile left by city plows?
   Yes, the Toro 518 ZE is designed to efficiently clear compacted snow, like the challenging piles left by city plows at the end of driveways. Its powerful engine and durable auger can cut through dense snow, making it easier to clear these stubborn areas.
2. How does the Power Curve Technology in the Toro 518 ZE enhance its snow-clearing capabilities?
   Power Curve Technology is designed to move more snow in less time and virtually eliminate clogging. The curved rotor and inverted funnel housing allow for better snow-gathering and expulsion, throwing snow farther and making clearing faster and more efficient.
3. What’s the significance of having an electric start in the Toro 518 ZE?
   The electric start feature is a convenience that allows you to start the snow blower quickly and easily with the push of a button, eliminating the need for manual pull-starts. This is especially useful in extremely cold conditions where pull-starting can be more challenging.
4. How does the Toro 518 ZE perform on different types of snow, such as light powder or wet slush?
   The Toro 518 ZE is versatile and effective on various types of snow. It can throw light powder effortlessly and tackle wet slush with its robust engine and auger design, although heavier, wet snow might require slower pacing to manage the load effectively.
5. Is the Toro 518 ZE easy to maneuver for users of all strengths and sizes?
   Yes, the Toro 518 ZE is designed with user-friendliness in mind. Its lightweight and self-propelled nature make it easier to maneuver, reducing the physical effort needed to clear snow, which makes it suitable for a wide range of users.
6. What makes the Toro 518 ZE a good choice for residential use compared to other models?
   The Toro 518 ZE combines power, ease of use, and efficiency in a compact design, making it ideal for residential use. It clears snow quickly, is easy to operate and store, and has proven durability, which sets it apart from other models in its class.

That’s the lowdown on the Toro Power Clear 518 ZE Snow Blower! Got any experiences or tips to share about this machine? Drop a comment below – we’d love to hear your thoughts! Your feedback helps everyone make better choices for their winter needs. Don’t forget to share this review with friends who might be on the lookout for a reliable snow blower. Stay warm and snow-ready, folks!

David Murray

Forestry Author

I'm David Murry, a forestry equipment specialist with a focus on chainsaw operation. With over 13 years of experience, I've honed my skills in operating and maintaining a wide range of machinery, from chainsaws to log splitters. My passion for the outdoors and commitment to sustainable forestry drive my work, which emphasizes safety, efficiency, and staying updated with industry advancements. Additionally, I'm dedicated to sharing my expertise and promoting environmental awareness within the forestry community.