Skid Steer Plow Build

[MikePhua]

Introduction
Transforming a skid steer into a capable snow plow is a prime example of resourceful engineering, blending fabrication with hydraulic mechanics to repurpose available components. This versatile upgrade can save time and enhance functionality when clearing surfaces—especially in tight or complex spaces.
Skid Steer Origins and Attachment Heritage
Compact and agile, skid steer loaders emerged in 1957 when the Keller brothers built a three-wheeled loader to clear turkey farm manure . Melroe Manufacturing later refined the concept into a four-wheel loader and branded it “Bobcat,” which propelled widespread adoption . A billion-dollar industry today, annual global sales exceed 25,000 units . With such popularity, numerous attachments, including plows, were developed and sold by manufacturers such as Erskine Attachments in Minnesota .
DIY Plow Design Principles
Constructing a skid steer plow begins with attaching it to a quick-attach (QA) plate. A steel frame—typically built from ¼" to 5/16" plate or angle—supports the plow blade. Essential features include:

• Floating hinge—A bottom hinge at the QA plate allows the blade to follow ground contour, reducing gouging and maintaining scraping efficiency .
  
• Mechanical float—Chain or similar linkage supports the blade when retracted, allowing the plow to tip under surface variations .
  
• Hydraulic power angle—Ideal for lateral blade control, using auxiliary circuits or the bucket curl circuit with additional hoses and fittings. This enables dynamic side-to-side adjustment .
  

One builder fabricated a lateral swivel feature and telescoping center link, enabling both float and controlled down pressure via bucket curl. He added a crossover valve for hose protection upon impact .
Real-World Insights
Seasoned fabricators highlight the difference between simple rigid setups and hydraulically functioning ones. For instance, one operator adapted a Fisher plow, adding a cushion valve for smoother operation, retained chain-based float, and used bucket curl for down pressure. All power-angle control came through the third hydraulic function for full hydraulic control .
Materials and Tools
Essential fabrication components include:

• Quick attach (QA) plate, thick enough to bear load (5/16"–3/8").
  
• Structural steel (angle, tube, or channel) for frame.
  
• Recycled or new snow plow blade, preferably 7–10 feet wide.
  
• Hydraulic hoses, couplers (flat-face) and adapters matching skid steer standards.
  
• Welding tools, grinder, cutting torch, measuring and layout equipment.
  

Step-by-Step Build Plan

• Mount the QA plate securely on the skid steer.
  
• Build a robust frame to support the plow blade and integrate a hinge for downward movement.
  
• Install chain or linkage to allow blade float; ensure the hinge allows both vertical movement and lateral tilt.
  
• Connect hydraulic lines: use aux hydraulics for angle if available, otherwise repurpose bucket curl cylinders and link them.
  
• Add cushion valve or crossover valve for shock protection.
  
• Test float, angle, and lift while fine-tuning chain length and cylinder response.
  

Performance Benefits

• Custom float ensures smooth ground contact, minimizing surface gouging.
  
• Hydraulic angle improves efficiency and precision, enabling smoother snow creep and cleaner edges.
  
• Low-cost adaptation—many DIY builds cost under $1,500 by repurposing used truck plow blades .
  

Recommendations and Tips

• Source a used plow blade to save cost—many available on classifieds. QA plates and hoses are standard and readily purchasable .
  
• Prioritize hydraulic angle control—manual-only designs are less efficient and labor-intensive .
  
• Test the blade on uneven terrain to ensure adequate float. Adjust chain and hinge flexibility accordingly.
  
• Integrate shear or cushion valves to protect hydraulic lines and arms during impacts.
  

Summary of Components

• QA Plate
  
• Hinge-enabled frame
  
• Chain or linkage for float
  
• Hydraulic hoses and couplers
  
• Cushion or crossover valve
  
• Snow plow blade (7–10 ft recommended)
  

Conclusion
Building a skid steer plow transforms a loader into a multifunctional clearance machine—perfect for snow, loose surfaces, or light grading. By applying adaptable design elements—floating hinge, hydraulic angle, chain-supported float—DIY engineers can craft efficient, durable, and cost-effective plow attachments. Stories from the field show that even complex ideas like lateral swivel can be fabricated using basic steel stock and vehicle hydraulics. With growing skid steer markets and widely available parts, making your own plow is both practical and rewarding. If you'd like, I can help sketch a simplified diagram or checklist tailored to your skid steer model and available tools.