Bobcat S70 with Snow Blower Attachment in Winter Operations

[MikePhua]

Compact Power in Harsh Conditions
The Bobcat S70 skid steer loader is the smallest in Bobcat’s lineup, designed for tight spaces and light-duty tasks. With an operating weight of approximately 1,300 kg and a width of just under 36 inches, it’s ideal for indoor demolition, landscaping, and snow removal in confined urban environments. Despite its compact frame, the S70 can be outfitted with a range of hydraulic attachments—including snow blowers—making it a versatile tool for winter maintenance.
Bobcat, founded in North Dakota in the 1950s, has sold millions of loaders globally. The S70 continues to be a popular choice for municipalities, property managers, and contractors who need maneuverability without sacrificing functionality.
Terminology Notes

• Standard Flow: Hydraulic output typically between 8–13 gallons per minute (GPM), suitable for light to moderate attachments.
  
• Deflector Control: A hydraulic or manual system that adjusts the angle of the chute to direct snow discharge.
  
• Skid Steer Mount: A universal attachment interface allowing quick connection of tools like blowers, buckets, and augers.
  
• Truck Loading Chute: A high-angle discharge chute designed to load snow directly into dump trucks.
  

Snow Blower Attachment Specifications
The Bobcat S70 can be paired with snow blower models such as the SB150x36 and SB150x48. These attachments are engineered for standard-flow hydraulics and feature:

• Clearing width: 36 to 48 inches
  
• Throw distance: up to 25 feet (8 meters)
  
• Hydraulic chute rotation and deflector control
  
• Replaceable wear edges and aggressive auger teeth
  
• Adjustable skid shoes for depth control
  

These blowers are designed to handle compacted snow and ice, making them suitable for sidewalks, alleyways, and small parking lots. The auger teeth break up dense snow, while the impeller throws it clear of the work area.
A property manager in Quebec used an S70 with a 48-inch blower to maintain pedestrian paths between apartment buildings. The machine’s narrow profile allowed access through gates and between parked cars, while the blower cleared 15 cm of snow in a single pass.
Operational Considerations and Setup Tips
To maximize performance:

• Ensure hydraulic couplers are clean and properly seated
  
• Use winter-grade hydraulic fluid rated for low temperatures
  
• Adjust skid shoes to match surface type (pavement vs gravel)
  
• Monitor chute rotation and deflector angle to avoid blowing snow onto structures or vehicles
  

Operators should warm up the machine before engaging the blower, especially in sub-zero conditions. A technician in Minnesota noted that premature engagement of the blower without hydraulic warm-up led to seal failure and impeller stalling.
Maintenance and Reliability
Routine maintenance includes:

• Greasing auger and impeller bearings every 10 hours
  
• Inspecting wear edges and replacing when rounded
  
• Checking hydraulic hoses for abrasion or leaks
  
• Cleaning chute and housing to prevent ice buildup
  
• Verifying deflector and rotation actuators for smooth movement
  

A contractor in Maine reported that his S70 blower setup ran over 200 hours during one winter season with minimal downtime, thanks to daily inspections and preemptive seal replacements.
Limitations and Workarounds
While effective, the S70 blower setup has limitations:

• Narrow clearing width requires more passes on large lots
  
• Standard flow limits performance in deep drifts or wet snow
  
• Limited cab insulation may affect operator comfort in prolonged use
  

Solutions include:

• Using multiple machines for large properties
  
• Pairing with salt spreaders or plows for layered snow management
  
• Installing cab heaters or insulated enclosures
  

A snow removal crew in Chicago retrofitted their S70 with a heated seat and plexiglass cab panels, improving operator endurance during overnight shifts.
Recommendations for Fleet Managers and Operators

• Keep spare wear edges, hydraulic couplers, and auger teeth in stock
  
• Train operators on chute control and blower engagement timing
  
• Use telematics to monitor blower usage and hydraulic temperatures
  
• Document blower performance across snow types for future planning
  
• Rotate blower units between machines to balance wear
  

Conclusion
The Bobcat S70 paired with a snow blower attachment offers a compact, efficient solution for winter maintenance in tight spaces. With proper setup, maintenance, and operator awareness, this combination can deliver reliable performance through harsh conditions. Whether clearing sidewalks in a dense city or maintaining access paths in a rural complex, the S70 proves that small machines can make a big impact when equipped with the right tools.