Equipping a Case Backhoe with a Snowplow for Winter Work

[MikePhua]

The Case Backhoe and Its Versatility
Case Construction Equipment, founded in 1842, has long been a leader in the backhoe loader market. The Case 580 and 590 series are among the most widely used backhoes in North America, known for their reliability, hydraulic power, and adaptability. With tens of thousands of units sold globally, these machines are often repurposed for seasonal tasks, including snow removal.
Backhoes offer a unique advantage in winter operations: enclosed cabs, high ground clearance, and powerful hydraulics. When paired with the right snowplow attachment, they can outperform pickup trucks and even dedicated plow rigs in certain conditions, especially on long rural driveways or commercial lots.
Terminology Annotation
- Quick Attach Coupler: A mounting system that allows rapid switching between attachments like buckets, forks, or plows.
- Power Angle Plow: A snowplow that can pivot left or right hydraulically, allowing directional control of snow discharge.
- Third Valve: An auxiliary hydraulic circuit added to control additional functions, such as plow angling.
- Snow Pusher: A fixed, box-style plow designed to push snow straight ahead without angling.
- One-Way Blade: A plow that discharges snow to one side only, typically used for highway or rural road clearing.
Choosing Between Pushers and Power Angle Plows
Operators often debate whether to install a snow pusher or a power angle plow on their backhoe. Pushers are simpler and require no hydraulic angling, making them ideal for large open areas like parking lots. However, for driveways or areas requiring directional control, a power angle plow is far more effective.
A contractor in Pennsylvania noted that while pushers work well for commercial lots, they fall short on long farm driveways where snow must be moved to one side. He opted for an 11-foot power angle plow mounted to his Case 580 via an FFC quick coupler. The plow was controlled using a third valve installed below the loader control, which cost approximately $1,400 including joystick integration and plumbing.
Hydraulic Requirements and Retrofit Options
Many Case backhoes come standard with two hydraulic circuits—one for the loader and one for the backhoe. To operate a power angle plow, a third valve is required to control the angling cylinders. If the machine lacks this feature, retrofitting is possible but involves:

• Installing a third valve block under the loader control
  
• Running hydraulic lines to the front coupler
  
• Adding a joystick or button control inside the cab
  
• Ensuring compatibility with existing flow rates and pressure
  

Some operators explore electric actuators as an alternative to hydraulic angling, especially when plumbing costs are prohibitive. While slower and less powerful, electric systems can be sufficient for light-duty snow work.
Attachment Sourcing and Fabrication
FFC Attachments manufactures power angle plows specifically designed for Case backhoes with quick couplers. These plows range from 9 to 11 feet in width and include reinforced moldboards, trip-edge protection, and dual hydraulic cylinders for angling.
In cases where commercial plows are unavailable or too costly, some operators fabricate their own. One example involved welding a pickup truck plow to a blank quick-attach plate and plumbing it to the backhoe’s auxiliary circuit. While functional, such setups require careful attention to weight distribution and hydraulic compatibility.
Field Anecdotes and Operator Preferences
A former commercial snow contractor shared that after a decade of plowing with dump trucks and pickups, he transitioned to using backhoes exclusively. He found that a backhoe with a 12-foot snowbox could clear large lots faster and with less wear on the machine. For residential driveways, he preferred a 9-foot power angle plow mounted to his Case 580, citing better maneuverability and control.
Another operator in New York used a 410G backhoe with a custom-mounted plow for clearing mountain driveways. He emphasized the importance of having a heated cab and reliable hydraulics, especially during multi-day storms.
Alternative Equipment and Seasonal Strategy
Some contractors consider using compact utility tractors for snow removal, especially when additional tasks like bush hogging or raking are planned. A 50 hp 4x4 tractor with a front-mounted plow offers excellent visibility and maneuverability, though it lacks the pushing power of a backhoe.
Others explore V-plows for deep snow conditions. These plows split snow down the center and discharge to both sides, making them ideal for initial passes on unplowed roads. While less common on backhoes, V-plows can be adapted with custom mounts and hydraulic kits.
Maintenance and Operational Tips
To ensure reliable snowplow performance:

• Grease all pivot points before each storm
  
• Check hydraulic fluid levels and inspect hoses for leaks
  
• Use low-temperature hydraulic oil in cold climates
  
• Install LED work lights for early morning or nighttime plowing
  
• Keep spare cutting edges and trip springs on hand
  

Operators should also monitor tire pressure and consider chains for added traction on icy surfaces. Backhoes with four-wheel drive and differential lock perform best in deep snow and uneven terrain.
Conclusion
Outfitting a Case backhoe with a snowplow transforms it into a formidable winter tool. Whether clearing long driveways, commercial lots, or rural access roads, the combination of hydraulic power, cab comfort, and attachment versatility makes the backhoe a smart choice. With the right plow, proper plumbing, and a bit of fabrication ingenuity, even a machine built for digging can become a snow-clearing champion.