Choosing and Modifying Snowblowers for Agricultural and Commercial Use: A Deep Dive into Design, Power, and Practicality

[MikePhua]

Introduction: Snow Management Beyond the Basics
In regions where snow isn’t just a seasonal inconvenience but a logistical challenge, the right snowblower setup can make or break winter operations. Whether clearing farm roads, barnyards, or commercial lots, choosing between rear-mounted 3-point blowers, hydraulic skid steer attachments, or custom-built machines involves more than horsepower—it’s about matching design to terrain, snow type, and workflow. This article explores the nuances of snowblower configurations, auger and fan designs, PTO versus hydraulic drive systems, and real-world field adaptations.
Understanding Snowblower Configurations
Snowblowers come in various configurations, each suited to specific operational needs:

• 3-Point Hitch Blowers: Mounted on the rear of tractors, driven by the PTO (Power Take-Off). Common in agricultural settings.
  
• Skid Steer Attachments: Front-mounted, hydraulically driven, offering better visibility and forward motion.
  
• Custom Front-Mounts: Modified from rear units, often using hydraulic motors or shaft linkages under the tractor.
  

Each configuration has trade-offs in terms of visibility, maneuverability, and power delivery.
Auger and Fan Design: What Matters Most
The auger and fan system determines how efficiently snow is gathered and expelled. Key design variations include:

• Single Auger Systems: Simpler, lighter, and sufficient for moderate snow. Best for residential or light farm use.
  
• Double Auger Systems: Handle deeper drifts and crusted snow more effectively. Ideal for open fields and wind-prone areas.
  
• Fan Blade Count: More blades (3–4) increase snow velocity and throw distance but require more power.
  
• Paddle vs. Spiral Augers: Paddles are better for loose snow; spiral augers cut through compacted drifts.
  

Cutting Edge and Wear Components
Some blowers feature a replaceable cutting edge at the base, which:

• Protects the housing from wear
  
• Improves scraping efficiency on hard surfaces
  
• Allows easy replacement when worn
  

Units without cutting edges may require welding or fabrication after prolonged use.
Power Requirements and Hydraulic Flow
Matching blower design to tractor or skid steer capabilities is critical:

• PTO-Driven Blowers: Require live PTO or independent clutch systems to control feed rate and ground speed independently.
  
• Hydraulic Blowers: Depend on flow rate (GPM) and pressure. High-flow systems (30+ GPM) perform best; low-flow (10–20 GPM) may struggle in deep snow.
  

Example: A Ford 7710 tractor with 17–20 GPM hydraulics may run a hydraulic blower, but performance will lag compared to a high-flow skid steer.
Field Modifications and Custom Builds
Operators have successfully modified rear 3-point blowers for front mounting by:

• Replacing PTO shafts with hydraulic motors
  
• Adding underbody shaft linkages
  
• Reinforcing frames for loader compatibility
  

These modifications improve visibility and allow forward operation, which is more intuitive and efficient.
Real-World Anecdotes and Lessons

• The Bent Auger Incident: A Red Devil blower rated for 90 hp was mounted on a 145 hp tractor. The mismatch caused the blower to plow rather than throw snow, bending the auger. Lesson: Match blower rating to tractor output.
  
• Ottawa’s Forward-Facing Blowers: In Ontario, commercial operators use rear blowers configured to operate while driving forward. This setup improves visibility and gear control, especially in urban environments.
  
• The Sicard Snow Master: Mounted on an Austin Western 99H motor grader, this beast uses a 250 hp Buda diesel to power a massive blower. It’s a reminder that industrial snow removal demands specialized equipment.
  

Selection Criteria for Heavy-Duty Blowers
When choosing a blower, consider:

• Auger Count: 2–3 augers for deep or drifting snow
  
• Fan Blade Strength: Thick steel paddles resist damage from debris
  
• Drive Train Protection: Shear pins prevent damage from hidden objects
  
• Build Quality: Enclosed gearboxes, roller chains, and thick metal construction
  
• Size Matching: Ensure blower weight and power needs align with tractor specs
  

Operational Tips and Best Practices

• Start Narrow: In deep snow, begin with partial-width passes to reduce load.
  
• Plan Snow Placement: Once snow lands and freezes, it’s hard to move again.
  
• Avoid Overpowering: Too much horsepower can damage underbuilt blowers.
  
• Live PTO Advantage: Allows precise control of blower speed and tractor movement.
  

Conclusion: Matching Machine to Mission
Snowblowers are not one-size-fits-all. From compact tractors to industrial graders, the key is matching auger design, drive system, and build quality to the specific snow conditions and operational goals. Whether modifying a 3-point blower for front use or investing in a high-flow hydraulic unit, thoughtful selection and setup ensure winter doesn’t slow you down.
Recommended Parameters for Selection

• Tractor HP Range: 30–150 hp depending on blower size
  
• Hydraulic Flow (GPM): Minimum 20 GPM for moderate performance; 30+ GPM for commercial-grade
  
• Auger Diameter: 18–24 inches for deep snow
  
• Fan Blade Count: 3–4 blades for optimal throw
  
• Cutting Edge Thickness: Minimum 3/8 inch steel
  

Final Thought
Snow may be inevitable, but inefficiency isn’t. With the right blower setup, even the harshest drifts become manageable—and sometimes, even fun to conquer.