I have a 27" 8.5 hp auger type snowblower that I bought about 3 years ago and barely been used because of lack of snowfall here in Pa. The recent series of storms has required me to actually use this machine. The machine was NOT used roughly or abused, but nevertheless fell apart. The auger axel is mounted on a cup that is attached to the housing. This cup supports the shaft while it spins. The metal of the houseing is SO thin and unreliable that it simply bends out and the shaft slips out of the cup. Banging it back into position is a temporary fix until the next time. What a piece of crap. Over $700 to boot.