If you’re looking for a powerful and reliable snow blower to handle tough winters, you’ve likely come across the Toro 20378. This Toro 20378 review aims to give you a clear, practical look at what this two-stage machine offers. We’ll break down its features, performance, and where it might fit into your seasonal routine.
As a seasoned gardener who also battles heavy snow, I know you need equipment that works as hard as you do. Let’s get straight into the details.
Toro 20378
The Toro 20378 Power Max HD 826 OAE is a two-stage gas snow blower designed for serious snow removal. It’s built for driveways that see significant accumulation, often over a foot deep. It’s not the biggest model out there, but it packs features that make it a strong contender for residential use.
Here are the key specifications at a glance:
- Engine: 252cc Toro Premium 4-cycle engine
- Clearing Width: 26 inches
- Intake Height: 21 inches
- Chute Control: 200-degree remote control with joystick
- Drive System: Power Steering with 6 forward speeds, 2 reverse
- Auger: Steel, serrated edge for breaking up ice
- Additional Features: Electric start, LED headlights, heated hand grips
First Impressions and Build Quality
Right out of the crate, the Toro 20378 feels sturdy. The assembly is straightforward, with most major parts attached. You’ll mainly need to install the chute and handles. The construction uses a mix of durable steel and high-impact plastic. It doesn’t feel cheap, which is crucial for something that will slam into frozen snow piles.
The controls are well-labeled and within easy reach. The padded handles are comfortable, and the addition of heated grips is a luxury you’ll appreciate on those bitter cold mornings. The LED headlights are bright and positioned well, making early morning or evening clears much safer.
Performance in Real Winter Conditions
This is where the Toro 20378 really shows its worth. I’ve used it in wet, heavy snow and lighter powdery stuff. Here’s how it handles:
- Deep Snow: The 21-inch intake height means it can tackle deep drifts without bogging down. The two-stage system (auger bites, impeller throws) works efficiently.
- Wet, Packed Snow: The serrated steel auger does a good job breaking up the icy layer at the end of your driveway. It’s not magic—you might need two passes for really dense stuff—but it’s effective.
- Throwing Distance: The adjustable chute controls where the snow goes, and the impeller throws it a good distance. You can easily clear a path without redepositing snow where you just cleared.
The Power Steering is a standout feature. It makes maneuvering this nearly 200-pound machine feel surprisingly easy. You can turn it with one hand, which reduces fatigue over a long clearing session.
Key Features Explained
Let’s talk about the features that set this model apart.
Remote Chute Control: The joystick on the control panel lets you rotate the chute 200 degrees and adjust the discharge angle without stopping or walking to the front. This saves a ton of time and keeps you in the driving position.
Power Steering: By simply squeezing the lever on either handle, you disengage the drive wheel on that side. This lets you pivot the machine smoothly. It’s intuitive and works very well.
Heated Hand Grips: These are powered by the engine, not batteries. They get warm quickly and make a huge difference in comfort. No more freezing your fingers off!
Electric Start: A reliable pull-start is there, but the electric start (with a cord) ensures a quick begin every time. Just plug it in, press the button, and you’re running.
Operation and Ease of Use
Starting is simple with the electric option. The controls follow a pretty standard layout:
- Engage the auger with the lever on the left handle.
- Select your speed with the shift lever (1-6 forward, R1/R2 reverse).
- Squeeze the drive control bar to move forward or back.
- Use the joystick to aim the chute as you go.
It takes a few minutes to get the hang of coordinating everything, but soon it becomes second nature. The machine is well-balanced, so it doesn’t feel like it’s pulling you around. The tires provide excellent traction on both pavement and gravel, though they can sometimes pick up and throw small stones if your gravel is loose.
Maintenance and Long-Term Reliability
Toro engines have a solid reputation. The 252cc engine should provide years of service with basic care. Maintenance is straightforward for anyone familiar with small engines:
- Change the oil after the first 5 hours of use, then annually.
- Check the spark plug each season.
- Use fuel stabilizer if storing with gas in the tank.
- Grease the auger shaft fittings periodically.
The shear pins are designed to break if the auger hits a solid obstacle, protecting the drivetrain. Replacing them is a simple task. Overall, the design seems built for longevity, and many users report these machines lasting a decade or more with proper upkeep.
Pros and Cons: A Balanced View
Based on hands-on experience, here’s the honest breakdown.
Pros:
- Power steering makes maneuvering effortless.
- Remote chute control is a major time-saver.
- Heated grips and LED lights are fantastic quality-of-life features.
- Strong engine performance in deep and wet snow.
- Relatively straightforward maintenance.
Cons:
- It’s a heavy machine, which can make storage and moving it up steps a two-person job.
- The price point is an investment, putting it in the mid-to-high range for residential blowers.
- Like all two-stage blowers, it’s quite wide, so storing it requires a decent amount of space in your garage or shed.
- The manual could be a bit more detailed for first-time owners.
Who Is The Toro 20378 Best For?
This snow blower isn’t for everyone. It’s overkill for light dustings or small, paved areas. It’s ideal for:
- Homeowners with large driveways (3+ car) or long sidewalks.
- Those who experience frequent heavy snowfalls or lake-effect snow.
- Anyone who values convenience features like power steering and heated grips to reduce cleanup time and discomfort.
- People who plan to keep their machine for many winters and want durable construction.
If you have a small, flat driveway or only get a few minor storms, a single-stage or less powerful two-stage model might be a better fit for your budget and needs.
Final Verdict
The Toro 20378 is a high-performance snow blower that justifies its cost with excellent engineering and user-focused features. The power steering and remote chute control alone transform the experience of clearing heavy snow from a chore into a much more manageable task. It’s built to last and handles the tough conditions it was designed for.
While the initial investment is significant and its size requires consideration, for the right user, it’s a tool that will provide reliable service for many winters to come. It’s a machine that respects your time and effort, which, in my book, is what good gardening and groundskeeping equipment is all about.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How does the Toro 20378 compare to other Toro models?
It sits near the top of Toro’s residential two-stage line. It has more features than the 1028 OE, like power steering and heated grips, but a slightly smaller engine than the largest 28-inch models.
Can the Toro 20378 handle gravel driveways?
Yes, but with caution. The skid shoes can be adjusted up to minimize gravel contact. However, the serrated auger can still pick up and throw small stones, so it’s best to leave a slight layer of snow or clear when accumulation is deeper.
Is the electric start battery-powered?
No. The electric start requires a standard 120-volt outdoor extension cord. You plug it in, start the engine, and then unplug it. The machine does not have a rechargeable battery for cordless starting.
What is the warranty on the Toro Power Max 20378?
Toro typically offers a 3-year limited warranty for residential use. Always confirm the current warranty details with your retailer or Toro at the time of purchase, as policies can be updated.
How much storage space does it need?
With its 26-inch width and overall size, you should plan for a footprint of about 32 inches wide by 48 inches deep. Remember to account for room to walk around it in your shed or garage.