Skid steer loaders are incredibly versatile machines. They are typically small in size, which allows them to operate in tight spaces that larger equipment cannot access. This makes them perfect for residential driveways, small commercial parking lots, and narrow sidewalks. Their compact design also means they can easily navigate around obstacles such as parked cars, light poles, and building entrances.
These loaders are powered by a variety of engines, including diesel, gasoline, and even electric in some models. The power generated is transferred to the wheels or tracks (in the case of track - mounted skid steers) through a transmission system. This provides the necessary force to move heavy loads and perform various tasks. In addition to their mobility and power, skid steers have a hydraulic system that is crucial for operating attachments. The hydraulic system can generate high pressures, which are used to power different types of snow removal attachments.
Snow Removal Attachments for Skid Steers
Snow Buckets
Snow buckets are one of the most common and versatile attachments for skid steer loaders used in snow removal. They are designed specifically to handle snow, with a larger capacity and a different shape compared to standard buckets. Snow buckets often have a more rounded front edge, which helps in pushing snow without leaving behind large piles or ridges.
Their design allows for efficient pushing and back - dragging of snow. When pushing snow, the operator can use the skid steer's maneuverability to quickly clear large areas. The bucket can also be used to pick up and dump snow into trucks or other storage areas. For example, in a commercial parking lot, a skid steer with a snow bucket can quickly push the snow to the sides or into piles, and then load it onto a dump truck for removal. Snow buckets are relatively lightweight, which is beneficial as it does not overly strain the skid steer's lifting capacity. However, they are still able to hold a significant volume of snow, making them suitable for both small - scale and medium - scale snow removal jobs.
Snow Plow Blades
Skid steer snow plow blades are highly effective for clearing sidewalks, driveways, and parking lots. These blades come in different sizes and configurations to suit various applications. Most snow plow blades can angle either left, right, or remain straight. This angling feature allows the operator to push snow to the side, making it easier to clear a path.
Some blades are designed to split in the middle, enabling them to push snow to both sides simultaneously. This can be controlled manually or by adding a hydraulic angle kit, which provides more precise control. A common feature of snow plow blades is the trip function. If the blade hits a large crack in the concrete, a curb, or any other obstruction, the blade will trip forward. This helps to absorb the impact, preventing damage to the blade and the skid steer. For instance, in a residential neighborhood, a skid steer with a snow plow blade can easily navigate along the sidewalks, clearing the snow and ensuring safe passage for pedestrians.
Snow Pushers
Snow pushers are best utilized in large areas such as commercial parking lots. They are designed to move large amounts of snow quickly. When using a snow pusher, the skid steer is typically operated in a straight - forward or backward motion, with the option of back - dragging.
Snow pushers are wider than snow buckets and plow blades in many cases, which allows them to cover a larger area with each pass. They are often used in industrial parks, shopping center parking lots, and other large - scale areas where rapid snow removal is essential. The design of snow pushers is such that they can push even the heaviest snow without leaving windrows, ensuring a clean and efficient snow removal process.
Snow Blowers
Skid steer snow blower attachments are extremely versatile and can be used for almost any snow removal application. These attachments are designed to blow snow away from an area, evenly distributing it without creating large piles.
Snow blowers can typically throw snow up to 40 feet or even further in some models. They are equipped with a powerful impeller that spins at high speeds, sucking in the snow and then ejecting it through a chute. The chute can often be adjusted to direct the snow in a specific direction. For example, in a schoolyard or a public park, a skid steer with a snow blower attachment can quickly clear the snow, making the area safe for children to play and for people to walk. Snow blowers are also effective in areas where space is limited, as they can blow the snow into a more manageable area rather than piling it up on - site.
Rotary Brooms
Skid steer rotary brooms are great for small amounts of snow accumulation. They are designed to clear the surface right down to the concrete or asphalt without causing any damage.
Rotary brooms are especially useful for clearing snow from sidewalks, where a more gentle approach is needed to avoid scratching the surface. The bristles of the broom rotate, sweeping the snow to the side. They can also be used to clean up any remaining snow or slush after other snow removal methods have been employed. In a downtown area with many sidewalk cafes and shops, a skid steer with a rotary broom can carefully clear the snow, maintaining the aesthetic appeal of the area while ensuring pedestrian safety.
Salt or Material Spreaders
Skid steer salt or material spreaders are essential for keeping parking lots, sidewalks, and driveways clear of ice. These attachments are designed to tip and scoop up large amounts of material, such as salt or sand, for disbursement.
They allow for quick and easy spreading of these materials over large areas. The spread can be controlled, ensuring that the right amount of salt or sand is applied. For example, in a hospital parking lot, where safety is of utmost importance, a skid steer with a salt spreader can quickly apply salt to the parking spaces and drive lanes, preventing ice formation and reducing the risk of slips and falls.
Post time:May.06.2025
