reliability of eskimo 33 cc motor?

[mrpike1973]

hi i dont want this to be my auger is better or which brand. i have a stingray new last year how long will this last average 100 - 150 holes a season. i'm asking because i may have a chance to get a different one that is bigger. i dont want to get a bigger one if this one will last long thanks

[nwhunter]

Which part do you think will fail?

The only issue I've heard about with Eskimo augers is the "cheap plastic." I've never personally owned one, but I have plenty of friends that have had their Eskimo's for 5+ years.

[mrpike1973]

i'm worried about the moter blowing up i've heard the gear cases are good

[PiedmontAngler]

I've personally drilled over 200 holes in one day with mine, no problems. It was before a contest and I happened to WIN the drill I was using in the morning.

Two seasons later still going. Just have to replace a gas tank due to a crack near the mounting screw. Heard their service center is pretty good too.

[nwhunter]

I think the engine is the least of your concerns. As long as you take care of it, use the right mix of gas/oil and change the plugs, it should run for quite some time. I've had more issues with gear boxes on other brands than anything else. Like I said, I know plenty of folks who have 5+ years on their Eskimo's.

Depending on your circumstances, it might behoove you to get the big one and keep the Eskimo too. I have two augers, one that's a little lighter and that I can drag around on a sled for early and late season. I have another bigger one that I use when the ice is 3+ feet thick and I can lug it around with the truck.

[fisherman-andy]

My old Stingray viper 33cc was going on 5 years I think I sold last season. 33cc, the only problems I have had is a broken fuel line and gas tank replacement with the metal clips from wear&tear. It has started easily in -20+ cold. One year I even left gas in it without changing it throughout the whole year and it started right up after a couple of pulls. Never once had to change the blades on it.

No doubt if properly taken care of/maintenance the viper base Eskimo augers should last you a very very long time.

[jBohmer]

I have an older Stinyray as well. I bought it used a few years ago and it was a at least a couple/few years old by then. I have very good luck with it. I cut 4 to six holes at a time and fish 3 or more times a week. It has been a good unit. I have had to replace some minor parts that just wore out. Everytime I have oredered parts for it they came promptly. I would not feel bad if I had to get a new one to get the same kind.