Choosing the right snow blower can make a big difference in your winter. If you’re looking at the Toro 51619 vs 51621, you’re comparing two of the most popular single-stage models on the market. Both are excellent machines, but they have key differences that will determine which one is the best fit for your driveway and your needs. This guide will break down everything you need to know to make a smart choice.
These Toro Power Clear models share a lot of DNA. They’re both lightweight, easy to handle, and perfect for clearing light to moderate snowfall from paved or composite surfaces. They use Toro’s patented Auger-Assist system, which gives you extra power to move heavy, wet snow. But the devil is in the details, and those details matter when you’re facing a long driveway or heavy slush.
Toro 51619 vs 51621
At first glance, these two snow blowers look nearly identical. They have the same basic design, engine, and clearing width. The main difference comes down to how you start them and how you control the chute. Let’s look at the core specs they share before we highlight what sets them apart.
Shared Features:
* Clearing Width & Intake Height: Both models clear a 21-inch path and have a 12-inch intake height.
* Engine: They are powered by a reliable 212cc Toro 4-cycle engine, which means no oil-gas mixing.
* Auger System: Both feature the Auger-Assist drive system for improved traction.
* Weight & Mobility: They are similarly lightweight (around 85 lbs) and easy to maneuver and store.
* Single-Stage Design: They use a single auger to both gather and throw snow, making them ideal for up to about 8-12 inches of snow.
Key Differences: Starting and Directing
The primary distinctions between these models are significant for user convenience. The Toro 51619 is the more basic model, while the 51621 adds key upgrades for easier operation.
Toro 51619 (The Standard Model):
* Starter: Requires a traditional recoil pull-start.
* Chute Control: The discharge chute is rotated manually by turning a crank handle.
* Chute Deflector: The angle of the snow stream is adjusted with a separate manual lever.
Toro 51621 (The Upgraded Model):
* Starter: Features a convenient push-button Electric Start (requires a standard 120V outdoor extension cord).
Chute Control: Uses a single-handle, joystick-style control to both rotate the chute and adjust the deflector angle simultaneously. This is a major advantage.
Why the Electric Start Matters
If you’ve ever struggled with a pull-start on a cold morning, you’ll apreciate the electric start on the 51621. Plug it in, push the button, and the engine turns over instantly. It’s a game-changer for reliability and ease, especially if you have any concerns about pull-starting. The 51619 is perfectly reliable, but it requires that extra physical effort every time.
Why the Single-Handle Chute Control is a Big Deal
This is arguably the most impactful upgrade. With the 51621, you keep one hand on the steering controls and use the other to effortlessly direct the snow with the joystick. You can change both direction and throw distance without stopping or fumbling with two separate controls. On the 51619, you must stop, adjust the crank for direction, then adjust a seperate lever for angle, which takes more time and effort.
Performance and Handling Comparison
In terms of raw snow-clearing power, both machines perform identically. They will tackle the same depth and types of snow with equal effectiveness. The performance difference is all about how you interact with the machine during the job.
The 51621’s features lead to a smoother, faster clearing experience. You spend less time adjusting and restarting, and more time moving snow. For larger areas or multiple passes, this reduced friction adds up to significant time and effort savings. The electric start also ensures you won’t waste energy just getting the machine running on the coldest days.
Which One Should You Choose?
Your decision between the Toro 51619 and 51621 comes down to your budget, your physical preference, and the size of your typical clearing job.
Choose the Toro 51619 if:
* Your budget is the primary concern (it’s the more affordable option).
* You have a smaller driveway or walkway.
* You don’t mind using a pull-start and manual chute controls.
* You want the essential Toro Power Clear performance at the lowest cost.
Choose the Toro 51621 if:
* You value convenience and reduced physical effort.
* You have a longer driveway or larger areas to clear.
* You want to minimize time spent adjusting controls.
* You prefer the reliability of an electric start, especially in extreme cold.
* The added cost is worth the significant ergonomic upgrades for you.
Both models are built with Toro’s quality and are designed for residential use. You cannot go wrong with either in terms of durability. It’s really about choosing the level of convenience you desire.
Maintenance Tips for Your Toro Snow Blower
To keep either model running well for seasons to come, follow these simple maintenance steps.
1. After Each Use: Let the machine run for a few minutes after clearing snow to melt any ice or moisture from the engine and auger housing.
2. Fuel Care: Use fresh fuel with a stabilizer, or use the Toro approved fuel stabilizer. At the end of the season, either run the engine until the tank is empty or use a fuel stabilizer for long-term storage.
3. Auger Inspection: Regularly check the rubber paddles on the auger for wear and tear. Replace them if they become cracked or overly worn to maintain good traction and clearing performance.
4. Shear Pins: Always check that the shear pins are intact. These are designed to break if the auger hits a solid object, protecting the engine and drivetrain. Keep a few spare pins on hand.
5. General Storage: Store your snow blower in a clean, dry place. Cover it to protect it from dust.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are the Toro 51619 and 51621 self-propelled?
A: Yes, both models use Toro’s Auger-Assist drive system. This is not a traditional wheel-drive system; instead, the rotating auger helps pull the machine forward, providing excellent traction on paved surfaces.
Q: Can these handle heavy, wet snow?
A: They are surprisingly capable with wet snow thanks to the Auger-Assist system and engine power. However, for very deep, wet snow (over 8 inches), they will work harder and you may need to take smaller passes. A two-stage model might be better for consistently heavy, wet conditions.
Q: What is the actual price difference between the 51619 and 51621?
A: The price difference varies by retailer and season, but expect the Toro 51621 with electric start and single-handle control to cost more than the basic 51619 model. The premium is usually justified by the added features.
Q: Do I need to assemble the snow blower?
A: Both models require some minor assembly upon delivery, such as attaching the chute and handles. The process is straightforward and usually takes 30-60 minutes with common tools.
Q: Is the electric start on the 51621 battery-powered?
A: No, it is a plug-in electric start. You will need a standard outdoor extension cord to reach from your outlet to your machine for starting. Once started, you unplug the cord and the engine runs normally.
In conclusion, the Toro 51619 vs 51621 debate highlights a choice between value and premium convenience. The 51619 offers the core, powerful Toro performance at a great price. The 51621 invests in features that make every use easier and faster. Consider how much you value the electric start and one-hand chute control against the cost difference. For many, the upgrades in the 51621 are worth every penny for a more enjoyable snow clearing experience. Your back and your schedule will thank you on those early winter mornings.