Clearing snow can be a real hassle, especially when winter hits hard. For those of you with larger areas to clear, like driveways, parking lots, or even small streets, a skid steer snow blower with a motor can be a total game-changer. These powerful attachments turn your skid steer into a snow-clearing machine, saving you time and effort. Let's dive into what makes these snow blowers so effective and what to consider when choosing one.

Understanding Skid Steer Snow Blowers

When we talk about skid steer snow blowers, we're referring to attachments designed to connect to the front of your skid steer loader. These attachments use a rotating auger and impeller to scoop up snow and then throw it away from the path. The motor is a crucial component, providing the power needed to drive the auger and impeller efficiently. There are generally two types of motors used in skid steer snow blowers: hydraulic and mechanical. Hydraulic motors are more common, as they utilize the hydraulic system of the skid steer to power the blower. Mechanical motors, on the other hand, are directly driven by the skid steer's engine through a series of belts and pulleys. Each type has its own set of advantages and considerations.

Benefits of Using a Skid Steer Snow Blower

Guys, let's be real – shoveling snow is nobody's favorite activity. A skid steer snow blower offers some serious advantages. First off, it’s a huge time-saver. What might take hours with a shovel or even a walk-behind snow blower can be done in a fraction of the time with a skid steer attachment. Second, it's much less physically demanding. Instead of straining your back and muscles, you can sit comfortably in the skid steer and let the machine do the work. Third, skid steer snow blowers are incredibly powerful. They can handle deep snow, heavy snow, and even icy conditions that would be impossible to manage with smaller equipment. Finally, a skid steer snow blower can throw snow a considerable distance, allowing you to clear large areas quickly and efficiently. This is especially useful for clearing parking lots or wide driveways where you need to move snow far away from the cleared area.

Types of Motors in Skid Steer Snow Blowers

As we touched on earlier, skid steer snow blowers typically use either hydraulic or mechanical motors. Hydraulic motors are the more common choice, offering several benefits in terms of flexibility and ease of use. They connect directly to the skid steer's hydraulic system, drawing power from the machine's hydraulic pump. This allows for variable speed control and easy integration with the skid steer's controls. Mechanical motors, on the other hand, are less common but can be more powerful in some applications. They are directly driven by the skid steer's engine, providing a direct transfer of power to the blower. However, they can be more complex to install and maintain.

Hydraulic Motors

Hydraulic motors are the workhorses of the skid steer snow blower world. They are reliable, efficient, and offer excellent control. The hydraulic system allows you to adjust the speed of the auger and impeller, giving you the flexibility to handle different snow conditions. For example, you can slow down the blower in heavy, wet snow to prevent clogging, or speed it up in light, fluffy snow to maximize clearing efficiency. Hydraulic motors also tend to be more compact and easier to maintain than mechanical motors. They typically require less maintenance and are less prone to breakdowns. However, they do rely on the skid steer's hydraulic system, so it's important to ensure that your machine has sufficient hydraulic flow and pressure to power the blower effectively. Also, it’s important to periodically inspect the hydraulic hoses and fittings for leaks or damage to keep everything running smoothly.

Mechanical Motors

Mechanical motors, while less common, offer a direct and powerful connection to the skid steer's engine. This can be advantageous in situations where you need maximum power and performance. Mechanical motors are typically used in larger snow blowers designed for heavy-duty applications. They can handle deep snow and icy conditions with ease. However, they can be more complex to install and maintain. They require a series of belts, pulleys, and clutches to transfer power from the engine to the blower, and these components can be subject to wear and tear. Mechanical motors also tend to be less flexible than hydraulic motors. They offer less precise control over the speed of the auger and impeller, which can make it more challenging to adapt to different snow conditions. But, if you need raw power and have the mechanical expertise to keep everything running smoothly, a mechanical motor might be the way to go.

Choosing the Right Skid Steer Snow Blower Motor

Alright, so how do you pick the perfect skid steer snow blower? Several factors come into play, including the size of the area you need to clear, the type of snow you typically encounter, and the capabilities of your skid steer. Let's break it down.

Size and Capacity

First, think about the size and capacity of the snow blower. Larger snow blowers can clear wider paths and handle deeper snow, but they also require more power. Make sure that your skid steer has sufficient hydraulic flow or engine power to operate the blower effectively. Consider the width of the blower. A wider blower will clear more snow with each pass, saving you time and effort. Also, think about the height of the blower intake. A taller intake will allow you to handle deeper snow without having to make multiple passes. It's crucial to match the size and capacity of the snow blower to the capabilities of your skid steer.

Snow Type and Conditions

The type of snow you typically encounter is another important consideration. If you live in an area with frequent heavy, wet snow, you'll need a more powerful snow blower with a robust motor. Look for a blower with a high-torque hydraulic motor or a powerful mechanical motor. If you typically get light, fluffy snow, a smaller, less powerful blower may be sufficient. Also, think about the presence of ice and other debris. If you frequently encounter icy conditions or debris like rocks and branches, you'll need a snow blower with a durable auger and impeller that can withstand the abuse. The design of the intake and impeller can also play a role in how well the blower handles different types of snow.

Skid Steer Compatibility

Of course, skid steer compatibility is key. Make sure that the snow blower is compatible with your skid steer's hydraulic system or engine. Check the hydraulic flow and pressure requirements of the blower and compare them to the specifications of your skid steer. If your skid steer doesn't have sufficient hydraulic flow, you may need to upgrade the hydraulic pump or choose a smaller snow blower. Also, consider the mounting system. Make sure that the snow blower is compatible with your skid steer's quick-attach system. Finally, think about the weight of the blower. A heavy blower can put a strain on your skid steer's lift capacity, so choose a blower that is appropriately sized for your machine. Before making a purchase, consult with a dealer or manufacturer to ensure compatibility.

Features to Look For

When you're shopping for a skid steer snow blower, keep an eye out for certain features that can make your life easier. Adjustable Chute Deflector: This allows you to control the direction and distance that the snow is thrown. This is especially useful for clearing areas where you need to avoid throwing snow onto buildings, cars, or other obstacles. Hydraulic Chute Rotation: This allows you to rotate the chute from the comfort of your skid steer's cab. This is a great feature for clearing large areas quickly and efficiently. Replaceable Wear Parts: Look for a snow blower with replaceable wear parts, such as the auger teeth and impeller blades. This will extend the life of your blower and save you money in the long run. Skid Shoes: Adjustable skid shoes allow you to control the height of the blower above the ground. This is especially useful for clearing gravel driveways or other surfaces that could be damaged by the blower. Lights: If you plan on clearing snow at night, consider a snow blower with integrated lights. This will improve visibility and safety.

Maintenance Tips for Skid Steer Snow Blowers

To keep your skid steer snow blower running smoothly for years to come, it's important to perform regular maintenance. Inspect the auger and impeller for damage or wear. Replace any worn or damaged parts. Check the hydraulic hoses and fittings for leaks. Tighten any loose connections and replace any damaged hoses. Grease the bearings and other moving parts. This will help to prevent wear and tear and keep everything running smoothly. Store the snow blower in a dry place when it's not in use. This will help to prevent rust and corrosion. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for maintenance and service. This will help to ensure that your snow blower stays in top condition.

Conclusion

A skid steer snow blower with the right motor can transform your winter snow removal routine. By understanding the different types of motors, considering the size and capacity of the blower, and paying attention to features and maintenance, you can choose the perfect snow blower for your needs. So, ditch the shovel and embrace the power of a skid steer snow blower. You'll be glad you did when the next big snowstorm hits!