Chapter 5: Commanding the Snow With Winter Attachments
Winter can be a challenging time, especially when heavy snowfalls occur regularly. But, equipped with the right skid steer attachments, you can transform your machine into an actual snow commando, ready to tackle the elements confidently and efficiently. Here, we’ll walk you through essential winter attachments to help you master the snowy season.
5.1 Snow Buckets and Snow Pushers:
When the snow piles high, you’ll need an effective method to clear and transport it. Enter the snow bucket – a large-capacity, high-sided attachment designed for scooping and moving significant snow volumes. For pushing the snow rather than scooping, snow pushers come in handy. Their wide, straight design effectively clears areas like parking lots and driveways.
5.2 Snow Blowers
Few tools are as effective as snowblower attachments when handling snowfalls. Driven by your skid steer’s hydraulic system, snow blowers can throw snow up to 45 feet away, making them ideal for clearing large areas or long driveways.
5.3 Snow Blades and Plows:
Consider a snowblade or plow for a more traditional approach. These attachments scrape snow from the ground and push it to one side, creating clear, safe paths. They are adjustable, allowing you to change the angle of the blade to handle varying snow conditions effectively.
5.4 Salt and Sand Spreaders:
Ice can pose a serious risk during the winter months. Salt and sand spreader attachments enable you to spread de-icing materials over slippery surfaces, improving safety for vehicles and pedestrians alike.
5.5 Ice Breakers and Scrapers:
An ice breaker or scraper attachment can be vital when ice forms a hard layer on the ground. They use pointed teeth or sharp edges to break up and remove ice, providing a safe and clear passage.
It’s essential to remember that each attachment demands a certain level of hydraulic power and flow rate from your skid steer. Always ensure your machine is up to the task before investing in new attachments. The winter weather may be harsh, but with the right tools, you can ensure you’re well-prepared to tackle anything Mother Nature throws your way.