Choosing the right skid steer snow blower is critical for efficient and effective snow removal during winter. Whether you’re clearing tight sidewalks or large commercial lots, understanding the compatible sizes of skid steer snow blower attachments ensures your machine performs optimally without overworking the engine or risking damage. This guide will walk you through the key aspects to consider about skid steer snow blower sizes, helping you find the perfect fit for your equipment and snow removal needs.
Understanding Skid Steer Snow Blower Basics
What Is a Skid Steer Snow Blower?
A skid steer snow blower is a specialized attachment designed to handle heavy snow removal by cutting, collecting, and throwing snow away from your work area. Unlike snowplows or snow pushers, these attachments efficiently clear compacted and wet snow, making them ideal for challenging winter conditions. Powered by the skid steer’s hydraulic system, the snow blower uses a combination of an auger and impeller for high-output snow clearing performance.
How Size Influences Performance
The size of a skid steer snow blower attachment directly impacts your machine’s efficiency and suitability for specific tasks. Key factors influenced by size include clearing width, horsepower requirements, hydraulic flow needs, and maneuverability. Selecting an attachment too large for your skid steer can cause strain or unsafe operation, while one that’s too small may slow down the job.
Skid Steer Snow Blower Size Categories
Small Skid Steer Snow Blowers
Small skid steer snow blowers typically measure between 48 to 60 inches in clearing width. They are ideal for:
- Residential driveways and sidewalks
- Tight or narrow spaces where maneuverability is key
- Skid steers with 30 to 60 horsepower and hydraulic flow around 12 to 16 GPM
These smaller attachments provide efficient snow removal without overwhelming your machine, perfect for lighter snowfalls and compact areas.
Medium Skid Steer Snow Blowers
Medium-sized snow blowers fall in the 60 to 72 inches range. They suit mid-range skid steers with 50 to 75 horsepower and hydraulic flow roughly 16 to 21 GPM. Their common uses are:
- Commercial sidewalks, small parking lots, and medium-sized driveways
- Handling slightly deeper or wetter snow conditions
- Balancing clearing width and machine power effectively
This size offers the best versatility for contractors managing various snow removal projects.
Large Skid Steer Snow Blowers: When Size Matters Most
Features and Ideal Applications
Large skid steer snow blowers exceed 72 inches in clearing width and are designed for high-horsepower skid steers, typically 70 to 100+ HP, with strong hydraulic flow rates (16 to 21+ GPM). These models are built for:
- Large commercial parking lots, school campuses, and industrial sites
- Heavy, compacted, and wet snow that smaller blowers struggle to handle
- Operators requiring maximum clearing efficiency on big projects
Hydraulics and Power Requirements
Because of their size and snow moving demands, these snow blowers require skid steers with robust hydraulic flow and horsepower to maintain consistent impeller speeds and throw distances. Installing a large blower on an underpowered skid steer runs the risk of reduced performance or equipment damage.
Compatibility and Choosing the Right Fit
Matching Hydraulic Flow with Attachment Size
Hydraulic flow, measured in gallons per minute (GPM), is a critical factor in selecting the right skid steer snow blower attachment. Most commercial-grade snow blowers require 16 to 21 GPM for optimal operation. Always check your skid steer’s hydraulic capabilities before purchasing a snow blower attachment for sale. Undersized flow may cause the blower to bog down or perform inefficiently.
Consider Machine Horsepower and Weight
Horsepower and rated operating capacity (ROC) go hand-in-hand with snow blower size to ensure safe and effective use. Larger blowers demand more horsepower; smaller skid steers with less ROC should stick to smaller attachments to avoid tipping or mechanical overload. Always consult your skid steer’s manual for manufacturer recommendations on attachment compatibility.
Practical Considerations: Working Space and Maneuverability
Use Case: Tight Spaces vs. Open Areas
When selecting a snow blower size, consider the environment you will be working in. Narrow residential streets, sidewalks, or areas around buildings often require smaller, more nimble skid steer snow blower attachments capable of tight turns and precise control. Larger open areas like parking lots or rural roads benefit from wider blowers that reduce the number of passes and save time.
Transport and Storage Needs
Aside from performance, consider how you’ll transport and store your skid steer snow blower when not in use. Larger units can be heavy and bulky, requiring appropriate trailers and storage space. Small to medium-sized blowers are easier to manage and often more cost-effective for seasonal operators.
Additional Features to Enhance Snow Blower Use
Quick Attach Compatibility
Most skid steer snow blower attachments utilize a universal quick attach system, facilitating fast and secure mounting/dismounting. Ensuring your snow blower attachment matches your skid steer’s attachment style avoids compatibility headaches and downtime during critical snow events.
Discharge Chute Control
A smooth, adjustable discharge chute is crucial for directing thrown snow away from cleared surfaces and sensitive areas. Many skid steer snow blower attachments offer manual 360-degree rotation, with upgrades available for hydraulic chute control for faster and more precise targeting.
Where to Find Quality Skid Steer Snow Blower Attachments for Sale
Verified Dealers and Manufacturers
Purchase skid steer snow blower attachments only from trusted dealers who provide detailed product specs, compatibility guides, and warranty support. Buying from reputable sources ensures you get professional-grade equipment designed to fit your skid steer perfectly.
Custom and Specialty Options
If your snow removal challenges are unique—such as extremely tight spaces or very large industrial sites—consider custom or specialized skid steer snow blower attachments. Some manufacturers offer sizes and features tailored for specific operational needs, including different impeller sizes, cutting edges, and hydraulic configurations.
Conclusion: Selecting the Ideal Skid Steer Snow Blower Size
Matching the skid steer snow blower size to your machine’s horsepower, hydraulic flow, and the scope of your snow removal projects is essential for both safety and efficiency. Small blowers excel in tight, residential areas while large blowers dominate expansive commercial lots. Medium-sized models offer a flexible balance suitable for most applications. Always ensure compatibility with your skid steer’s specifications and choose quality attachments for reliable winter performance. Ready to upgrade? Explore a range of skid steer snow blower attachments for sale to find the perfect fit and take your snow removal to the next level.
