Cub Cadet 3X (26″) 357cc Three-Stage Snow Blower

This 3X model adds a third stage to the clearing process ahead of a 357cc engine and 26-inch width, meant to push snow through the chute faster than a comparable two-stage machine.

What three-stage adds

A dedicated accelerator stage between the auger and impeller is the main thing separating three-stage models from a two-stage design, built for speed moving snow rather than just width or raw engine size. 16-inch X-Trac tires support traction under that extra throughput, with a steering trigger at each handle and a friction disc feeding a heavy-duty cast-aluminum gear box.

Comfort and light

Heated handgrips, an overhead crank chute control, and dual LED headlights round out the feature list, with electric start standard.

Clearing ice from the accelerator

The accelerator stage is one more set of moving parts than a two-stage machine has, so clearing ice buildup from around it at the end of a storm is worth adding to a normal end-of-use check, the same way you'd brush snow off the engine and handles before parking it.

How is three-stage different from two-stage? An added accelerator stage is built for speed moving snow at a comparable width and engine size.

What size tires does it run? 16-inch X-Trac tires, the same size used on the wider three-stage models in this range.

Tank, model, coverage? 1.25 gallons, model 31AH5DVA710, 3-year consumer warranty, new.

What colour is it? It comes in the factory yellow and black finish.