Review: The Cub Cadet 2X 28HD Snow Blower

When people start shopping for snow blowers, the first number they usually look at is the clearing width. It makes sense - a wider pass means fewer trips up and down the driveway.

But in our experience, width isn't the only number that matters. The engine size is what determines how easily you’re going to clear that heavy, wet drift at the end of the driveway… or if you’ll slow to a crawl trying to carve your way through.

This is where the Cub Cadet 2X 28HD really stands out. It pairs a manageable 28-inch frame with a massive 420cc engine. That is the kind of displacement you usually only see on larger machines. It gives you a blower that is easy to store and maneuver, but has the torque to handle the worst conditions Atlantic Canada can throw at it.

Here is a look at why this "big engine, medium frame" setup is a favourite for homeowners dealing with the aftermath of an East Coast storm

The Engine is the Main Event

If you look at most 28-inch snow blowers on the market, you will typically find engines in the 250cc range. They do a fine job on fresh powder.

The 2X 28HD, however, runs a 420cc OHV engine.

When your auger hits the heavy, compacted wall of snow at the end of your driveway, a smaller engine can bog down or stall. The 420cc engine has the muscle to chew through that packed ice and slush without hesitation. It maintains high RPMs under load, which keeps the impeller spinning fast and the snow throwing far.

Quick Specs:

• Engine: 420cc Cub Cadet® OHV

• Start: Push-button electric start (110V)

• Clearing Width: 28”

• Intake Height: 23”

• Tires: 16” x 6.5” X-Trac™

Handling and Control

A common concern with larger engines is that the machine will be heavy or hard to turn. This model uses a trigger-control power steering system.

You have small triggers on the underside of the handle grips. When you pull the left trigger, the left wheel locks and the right wheel keeps driving, pivoting the machine to the left. It takes the physical effort out of turning the machine around at the end of a pass. You can maneuver this 200+ lb machine with one hand.

It also comes standard with heated hand grips. In our climate, this isn't really a luxury feature; it's a necessity for those mornings when the temperature drops below -20°C.

Durability Where it Counts

The most stressed part of any two-stage snow blower is the auger gearbox. It takes the impact when you accidentally clip a curb or hit a chunk of ice.

Cub Cadet uses a heavy-duty cast aluminum gearbox on the HD models. They back this specific component with a 5-year warranty, while the rest of the unit carries a 3-year residential warranty.

Who is this machine for?

This isn't the cheapest blower on the floor, so you want to make sure you actually need this much power. We typically recommend the 2X 28HD for:

• Plow-heavy driveways. If the city plow regularly fills your driveway entrance with heavy, wet snow, the 420cc engine is worth the investment.

• Gravel driveways. The 2-stage design and adjustable Cool Blue™ skid shoes allow you to clear snow without throwing rocks through your neighbour's window.

• Uneven terrain. The 16-inch X-Trac™ tires provide solid grip, but the power steering is the real helper here if you have a sloped or curved driveway.

Final Thoughts from the Shop

The Cub Cadet 2X 28HD is a great example of "buying the right tool for the job." You might not need the extra torque for a light dusting in January, but you will be glad you have it when a February Nor'easter hits.

If you want to see the difference in build quality for yourself, come see us at 75 DesBrisay Ave in Moncton. We can walk you through the controls and help you decide if the HD series is the right fit for your property.

Shop the Cub Cadet 2X 28HD online here.