Husqvarna ST230P 30″ 291cc Two-Stage Snow Blower Review

Husqvarna ST230P is the most popular snow blower from the reputable manufacturer as well biggest and most powerful one of 200 series. Therefore expectations for it are quite high so does it impress or disappoint?

Related article: Husqvarna ST224P Review

Performance

As expected Husqvarna ST230P cuts through snow very well. Goes through 20” of snow effortlessly – yes, cheaper machines might handle such amounts of snow too but not without some serious effort. Husqvarna ST230P handles wet snow pretty good too unless it’s super wet. Throws snow pretty far too: 30 and more feet depending on conditions.

Starts exceptionally well. Just prime it 2 times and it always starts with 1-3 pulls. On top of that it also has electric starter but it’s so easy to start manually most will never use it.

With that being said it has one major fault that’s common – auger belt issues. Not everyone experiences this issue for some reason but nonetheless many do. It seems that for some reason auger belts are prone to shredding and some consumers have to replace them often.

We have heard a theory that original auger belt is too long and can be replaced with a 38” one (original one is 38.2”) however we cannot confirm if this will solve the issue if you come across it.

Build quality

Husqvarna ST230P feels sturdy and is made from strong, quality materials. For example gearbox is made of cast aluminum whereas chute is made from steel.

Features

It has 6 forward speeds and 1 backwards. Even in lowest forward speed it moves a bit too fast unless you are going through 1+ feet of snow. Backwards speed has opposite problem – it’s terribly slow.

Both direction and elevation of chute is adjustable with a lever which is simple and convenient.

Husqvarna ST230P has ratcheting drive system which with a pull of a switch allows all the power to go to either wheel making it turn around and easy to maneuver even in very deep snow.

In the front you will find LED lights which are very bright.

Other features include heavy-duty serrated ribbon, heated handles, fuel shutoff valve, adjustable throttle and more!

Ergonomics

Ergonomics are very good. Handle and control panel can be adjusted in height with 4 possible positions. Tires have aggressive tread that grip well.

Conclusions

Husqvarna ST230P is the snow blower you will want after heavy snowfalls, that is if you don’t experience the auger belt issues.

Husqvarna ST230P, 30 in. 291cc Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower Specs:

• Clearing width: 30 inches
• Intake height: 10 inches
• Weight: 237.8 lbs
• Dimensions: 58.5″ x 31″ x 41.5″ (L x W x H)
• Engine:
  • Displacement: 291 cc
  • Power output: 8.5 horsepower
  • Gross torque: 14.5 lb-ft
• Transmission:
  • Type: Friction disc
  • Forward speeds: 6
  • Backward speeds: 1