Converting Snowblowers for Heavy Equipment Use

[MikePhua]

Why Snowblower Conversion Is Gaining Popularity
In regions with heavy snowfall, contractors and municipalities increasingly seek ways to repurpose existing snowblower units for use on skid steers, tractors, and loaders. Rather than purchasing new attachments, many opt to convert older or standalone snowblowers—originally designed for walk-behind or PTO-driven setups—into hydraulically powered units compatible with modern quick-attach systems. This approach saves money, reduces waste, and allows customization for specific terrain and snow conditions.
The rise of hydraulic snowblower attachments has paralleled the growth of compact equipment with high-flow capabilities. Machines like the Bobcat S650, Case TR340, and John Deere 333G offer hydraulic flows between 23 and 40 GPM, making them ideal platforms for snowblower retrofits.
Understanding the Core Components of a Snowblower
A snowblower consists of several key systems:

• Auger: The rotating spiral that gathers snow and feeds it into the impeller.
  
• Impeller: A high-speed fan that propels snow through the chute.
  
• Chute: Directs the discharged snow; may be manual or hydraulically adjustable.
  
• Drive System: Originally belt or PTO-driven, but converted units require hydraulic motors.
  
• Frame and Skid Shoes: Support the blower and allow height adjustment over uneven surfaces.
  

When converting a unit, the auger and impeller must be matched to a hydraulic motor with sufficient torque and RPM. The chute may need retrofitting with a hydraulic cylinder or worm gear for remote control.
Hydraulic Requirements and Compatibility
Hydraulic snowblowers demand specific flow and pressure to operate efficiently. Most converted units require:

• Flow rate: 23–30 GPM for standard performance
  
• Pressure: 2,800–3,500 PSI
  
• Case drain line: Prevents seal damage from backpressure
  
• Return filtration: Protects loader hydraulics from contamination
  

Machines without high-flow hydraulics may struggle to power both auger and impeller simultaneously. In one case from Minnesota, a contractor converted a 72-inch blower for use on a standard-flow skid steer. The result was sluggish performance and frequent stalling. After upgrading to a high-flow machine, the blower cleared snow at full width without bogging.
Mounting and Quick-Attach Integration
To mount a converted snowblower, the frame must be adapted to fit the host machine’s quick-attach system. Most skid steers use the universal SSQA (Skid Steer Quick Attach), while tractors may use Euro or JD mounts.
Conversion steps:

• Weld or bolt a quick-attach plate to the blower frame
  
• Reinforce mounting points to handle vibration and torque
  
• Align blower height with machine lift arms to maintain visibility
  
• Add adjustable skid shoes to prevent surface gouging
  

In a fleet in Ontario, a technician added bolt-on skid shoes and a reinforced SSQA plate to a converted blower. The unit performed well on sidewalks and gravel lots, with minimal wear after 300 hours.
Chute Control and Operator Convenience
Manual chutes are simple but inconvenient for frequent direction changes. Hydraulic chute rotation and deflection improve efficiency and reduce operator fatigue.
Options include:

• Hydraulic cylinder with joystick control
  
• Worm gear with electric actuator
  
• Cable-operated chute with spring return
  

A snow removal crew in Colorado retrofitted their chute with a 12V actuator and toggle switch. The operator could adjust discharge angle without leaving the cab, improving cycle times by 20%.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Conversion projects often face:

• Mismatched motor sizing: Leads to poor performance or overheating
  
• Frame vibration: Causes weld fatigue and component wear
  
• Hydraulic leaks: Result from improper fittings or hose routing
  
• Snow packing: Occurs when auger speed is too low or chute is misaligned
  

Solutions:

• Use motor calculators to match torque and RPM to auger diameter
  
• Add vibration dampeners or gussets to frame
  
• Use JIC or ORFS fittings for leak-free connections
  
• Adjust chute angle and impeller speed to prevent clogging
  

In one case from Maine, a contractor added a high-speed impeller and widened the chute throat. The blower cleared wet snow without clogging, even during thaw conditions.
Cost Comparison and Market Trends
New hydraulic snowblower attachments range from $5,000 to $12,000 depending on width and features. Converting an existing unit may cost:

• Hydraulic motor and hoses: $800–$1,500
  
• Quick-attach plate: $300–$600
  
• Chute actuator: $200–$500
  
• Labor and fabrication: $500–$1,000
  

Total conversion cost often falls below $3,000, making it attractive for small contractors and municipalities. As winter storms intensify, demand for snow-clearing solutions continues to rise. In 2024, snowblower attachment sales increased 18% across North America, driven by early-season storms and equipment shortages.
Conclusion
Snowblower conversion offers a practical, cost-effective way to enhance winter operations using existing equipment. With careful attention to hydraulic compatibility, mounting, and control systems, operators can build high-performance attachments tailored to their needs. Whether clearing sidewalks in a mountain town or opening rural driveways after a blizzard, a well-converted snowblower delivers power, precision, and reliability.