BAP - congrats!
You'll love a front mount. Had one 15 years on 2 different tractors. Had a JD425 with a 47", then the BX with a BX2750D since 2013.
I have a short, wide STONE driveway with a couple turnarounds that slopes down to the road. I also do some of the lawn so the dog has a place to do his business.
Couple questions - How long is your driveway? Surface? Wide, turnarounds, circles, slopes, etc?
For me, gauge of the steel of the blower is important, but not a sole deciding factor. Unless you do something foolish, bending it is not an issue. If you don't use salt, rust-through isn't a problem. Also, more weight up front can take away rear traction - your B has good size tires if loaded with ballast to help there.
The type/style/placement/adjustability of the shoes is VERY important. REALLY liked the shoes on the JD blower. Have always complained about the 2750D shoes since I owned it. (I think they have since improved them some). To me, an outboard placement of the shoe is preferred, with several options for bolt placement to adjust height. For an asphalt driveway, not as big an issue.
The fan/impellor is important. Okay with the Kubota fan I have.
The type of connection/hitch to the tractor is big. Not real solid for my blower IMO, but works just fine.
I had hydraulic chute on the JD. Bought the electric rotator for the Kubota ($350 or so). Still have it in a box; looked like junk. Tried to "trade" it for the hydraulic model, then found that was $800
! Have gotten so I deal with the old fashioned manual just fine!
For width, I don't want much more than covering my tire tracks. I need to get into a tight spot along the back walk, and have house on one side, and hill on the other.
My BX2750D has been flawless in the 4 seasons I had it, and the BX5455 is supposed to be much better.
For me, #1 is shoes, #2 is mount, and #3 is impellor, but I still want a good solid machine, if that makes sense....
