Winter weather can bring its fair share of challenges, especially when it comes to snow removal.

One of the most versatile and efficient machines for tackling snow on driveways, parking lots, and roadways is the skid steer loader. With a variety of attachments available, such as a bucket, snow blower, snow pusher, or snow blade, a skid steer can help you clear snow quickly and efficiently. In this blog post, we’ll walk through how to use these attachments for effective snow removal.

1. Using a Skid Steer Loader with a Bucket for Snow Removal

The most common attachment for skid steers is the bucket, and it can be surprisingly effective for snow removal in certain situations. Here’s how to get the best results using a bucket:

Preparing the Skid Steer

  • Inspect the Machine: Before starting, check the skid steer for proper tire pressure, fluid levels, and ensure the bucket is securely attached.
  • Clear Obstacles: Ensure there are no hidden obstacles beneath the snow that could damage the skid steer loader or make operation difficult.

Using the Bucket

  • Positioning the Bucket: For general snow removal, keep the bucket low to the ground. You want to scoop up snow without scraping the surface underneath, which could lead to damage.
  • Lift and Dump: Once the bucket is filled, lift it slowly and drive to the designated area to dump the snow. This method is great for clearing parking lots, driveways, and other flat surfaces. For wider areas, make multiple passes to avoid creating large snow piles.
  • Avoid Overloading: Try not to overload the bucket. This ensures better control of the machine and reduces the risk of spillage when transporting snow.

Advantages of Using a Bucket

  • Cost-Effective: Most skid steers already come with a bucket, making it a low-cost option for snow removal.
  • Versatile: A bucket can handle a variety of snow conditions, including wet or compacted snow.
  • Simple to Operate: For most operators, using a bucket is intuitive and easy to control.

2. Using a Snow Blower for Skid Steer Loaders

When it comes to deeper or packed snow, a snow blower attachment can be a game-changer. Snow blowers clear snow in a way that prevents it from being pushed or piled up, which is particularly helpful in tight spaces or areas with limited room for snow storage.

Setting Up the Snow Blower

  • Attachment Check: Ensure the snow blower attachment is properly attached and connected to the skid steer. Check the auger and chute for any blockages before use.
  • Adjust the Chute: Before you start clearing snow, set the chute to direct the snow away from the area you’re working on, ensuring it is not piling up in unwanted areas.

Using the Snow Blower

  • Approach the Snow: Slowly drive the skid steer into the snow, ensuring the blower is in contact with the snow surface.
  • Control the Auger: The auger on the snow blower will chop and gather snow as it rotates. Keep an eye on the auger’s performance to avoid overloading it, especially in deep or dense snow.
  • Adjust Speed: Slow down if the snow is heavy or wet, as forcing the skid steer too quickly can lead to inefficiency and damage.

Advantages of Using a Snow Blower

  • Efficient in Deep Snow: Snow blowers can handle deeper and heavier snow without the risk of damaging the ground.
  • Less Piling: Since snow is thrown to the side, you can create a cleaner and more organized snow removal pattern, ideal for confined areas.
  • Better for Sensitive Surfaces: Snow blowers are particularly effective when you need to avoid scraping sensitive surfaces like asphalt, concrete, or grass.

3. Using a Snow Blade for Skid Steer Loaders

A snow blade, or snow plow, is a popular option for large-scale snow removal. It works by pushing snow from one side to another, making it an excellent choice for roads, driveways, and parking lots where snow needs to be pushed to the side.

Attaching the Snow Blade

  • Secure the Blade: Attach the snow blade to the skid steer, making sure it is locked in place. Some blades have adjustable angles, so make sure the blade is set to the proper angle based on the snow conditions.

Using the Snow Blade

  • Adjust the Blade Angle: If your snow blade is adjustable, set the angle to move the snow to one side. This allows you to clear wider areas faster by pushing the snow to the edges.
  • Start at the Perimeter: Begin at the edges of the area you’re clearing, and work your way towards the middle. This prevents overloading the blade and helps in efficiently managing larger amounts of snow.
  • Lift and Reset: After each pass, lift the blade slightly to avoid scraping the surface too much and to ensure you don’t push snow over obstacles.

Advantages of Using a Snow Blade

  • Fast for Large Areas: Snow blades are perfect for large, flat areas like parking lots or long driveways where you need to move significant volumes of snow quickly.
  • Less Maintenance: Snow blades typically require less maintenance compared to snow blowers.
  • Precision: The ability to control the angle of the blade lets you adjust for different snow depths and conditions.

4. Using a Snow Pusher for Skid Steer Loaders

A snow pusher is an attachment designed for moving large amounts of snow quickly and efficiently. It is similar to a snow blade but with a wider surface and higher sidewalls, which makes it ideal for clearing snow off of large parking lots or driveways.

How to Use:

  • Attach the snow pusher to the skid steer loader, ensuring that it is properly connected.
  • Lower the snow pusher to the ground and angle it, if necessary, to direct the snow to one side.
  • Drive forward slowly and let the pusher move the snow into piles. The snow pusher’s high sidewalls keep the snow contained, allowing for efficient movement.
  • Once the pusher is full, lift the pusher and drive the snow to a designated pile or disposal area.

Tips:

  • Snow pushers are most effective for moving large amounts of snow quickly and are perfect for wide open areas.
  • They work well with heavier snow and can clear large expanses of snow without leaving behind small piles.

Tips for Safe and Efficient Snow Removal with a Skid Steer

  • Wear Proper Gear: Snow removal can be cold and strenuous, so make sure to wear appropriate winter clothing to stay warm.
  • Take It Slow: Avoid rushing through snow removal tasks. Going too fast can damage the equipment and the surface beneath the snow.
  • Monitor Snow Depth: Be mindful of snow depth, especially when using a snow blade. Deep snow may require multiple passes to clear.
  • Clear the Snow Early: Try to remove snow as soon as possible after it falls to prevent it from compacting or freezing, which makes it harder to remove.
  • Plan for Snow Storage: Always have a plan for where to pile or dump the snow. In some areas, you may need to transport snow away from the worksite.

Conclusion

Using a skid steer loader for snow removal offers several advantages, whether you’re using a bucket, snow blower, snow pusher, or snow blade. The key is selecting the right attachment for the job and understanding how to operate it safely and efficiently. Whether you’re clearing driveways, parking lots, or large roads, a skid steer loader can handle the task with ease. By following the right steps and using the proper attachments, you can tackle winter’s worst weather with confidence.

Right now on Durattach.com use discount code LETITSNOW for an extra 5% discount off our already low prices for any “Snow” category attachment! Not only do we carry all of these attachments for skid steer loaders, but we offer snow blowers, snow buckets, snow plow blades, and snow pushers for tractors as well.

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