Choosing the Right Snow Bucket for the CAT 226B Skid Steer

[MikePhua]

The Legacy of the CAT 226B Skid Steer
The Caterpillar 226B skid steer loader is part of the B-series lineup introduced in the early 2000s by Caterpillar Inc., a global leader in construction and mining equipment since 1925. Designed for compact job sites and versatile applications, the 226B quickly became a favorite among contractors, landscapers, and municipal crews. With a rated operating capacity of approximately 1,500 pounds and a tipping load of 3,000 pounds, the 226B balances power and maneuverability, making it ideal for snow removal in tight urban environments.
Understanding Snow Bucket Sizing
Snow buckets are specialized attachments designed with increased width and volume to move light, bulky material like snow. Unlike general-purpose buckets, snow buckets typically feature:

• High back walls to prevent spillage
  
• Wide openings for efficient scooping
  
• Lightweight construction to preserve lift capacity
  
• Optional visibility slots or mesh inserts for operator sightlines
  

For the CAT 226B, the ideal snow bucket size must consider both width and weight. While a wider bucket increases productivity, it also adds stress to the loader arms and reduces payload capacity.
Recommended Bucket Dimensions and Weight
Based on field experience and equipment specifications, the following guidelines apply:

• Width: 84 inches (7 feet) is a practical upper limit for the 226B. Wider buckets like 96 inches are better suited for larger machines such as the CAT 242B or 262D.
  
• Weight: The bucket should weigh no more than 750–775 pounds. This leaves sufficient capacity for snow, especially wet or compacted snow which can weigh over 20 pounds per cubic foot.
  

A medium-duty 84-inch snow bucket weighing around 745–775 pounds is considered optimal. Heavier-duty buckets exceeding 900 pounds may compromise lifting performance and reduce efficiency during prolonged use.
Real-World Performance and Adjustments
Operators in northern climates like Manitoba and Alberta have successfully used 84-inch snow buckets on the 226B, provided the snow is dry or moderately packed. In cases of heavy, wet snow, it's advisable to take smaller scoops to avoid overloading the hydraulic system.
One operator noted that a similar bucket worked well on a New Holland LS160 (rated at 1,600 pounds), but the CAT 242B (rated at 2,000 pounds) handled the same bucket with noticeably better efficiency. This comparison underscores the importance of matching bucket weight to the loader’s rated capacity.
Enhancing Bucket Performance
To improve snow-handling efficiency and reduce maintenance:

• Sandblast and repaint used buckets to prevent snow adhesion and corrosion
  
• Install bolt-on cutting edges to extend bucket life and improve scraping
  
• Add visibility slots or mesh windows to improve operator sightlines
  
• Use high-flow hydraulics if available, to speed up cycle times in cold weather
  

A well-maintained snow bucket can last over 2,000 hours in seasonal use, especially when paired with proper storage and regular inspection.
Operator Tips and Safety Considerations

• Avoid sudden stops or turns when the bucket is fully loaded, as this can destabilize the machine
  
• Use tire chains or snow tracks to improve traction on icy surfaces
  
• Keep the bucket low during transport to maintain a low center of gravity
  
• Monitor hydraulic fluid temperature during extended snow clearing sessions
  

Caterpillar’s Commitment to Compact Equipment
Caterpillar’s compact equipment division has seen steady growth, with over 250,000 skid steers sold globally by 2020. The 226B, though no longer in production, remains a reliable workhorse on many job sites. Its compatibility with a wide range of attachments, including snow buckets, augers, and sweepers, ensures continued relevance in seasonal and year-round operations.
Conclusion
An 84-inch medium-duty snow bucket weighing around 775 pounds is a suitable match for the CAT 226B skid steer, offering a balance between capacity and control. With proper maintenance and thoughtful operation, this setup can deliver efficient snow removal across driveways, parking lots, and municipal routes. As winter equipment continues to evolve, the pairing of legacy machines like the 226B with modern attachments remains a smart, cost-effective strategy for contractors and property managers alike.