When it comes to efficient snow removal, back dragging plays a crucial role in clearing areas where forward plowing isn’t practical. Driveways, parking lots, loading docks, and tight spaces often require the ability to pull snow backward rather than pushing it forward. Various back drag features on snow plows and pushers help operators tackle these challenges efficiently. Let’s explore different back drag options, including poly back drag kits, top-mounted snow pusher back drag kits, and the positioning of plow wings.
The Importance of Back Dragging in Snow Removal
Back dragging is particularly useful in areas where forward motion is restricted, such as:
- Residential driveways, where space is limited
- Commercial parking lots with barriers, curbs, or parked cars
- Garage entrances and loading docks
- Sidewalks adjacent to buildings
Having the right back drag features on a snow plow or pusher ensures cleaner results with less manual cleanup, improving efficiency and reducing time on site.
Poly Back Drag Kits
One of the most popular options for enhancing back drag performance is a poly back drag kit. These kits typically feature a durable poly blade attached to the back edge of a standard snow plow cutting edge. KAGE offers poly back drag kits for its SnowFire Series of 2-in-1 snow blades and pushers. Keep in mind the material of the cutting edge does affect which poly back drag kits are compatible.
Benefits of Poly Back Drag Kits
- Surface Protection: The poly material is less abrasive than steel, reducing damage to delicate surfaces such as asphalt and decorative concrete.
- Improved Traction: Poly edges reduce friction, allowing for better movement of snow without excessive resistance.
- Durability: Resistant to wear and tear, poly kits provide a long-lasting solution for contractors who frequently back drag.
- Lightweight: Unlike heavy metal edges, poly kits minimize additional weight on the plow, making it easier to maneuver.
Poly back drag kits are a great addition for contractors working in residential areas or commercial lots with sensitive surfaces.
Top-Mounted Snow Pusher Back Drag Kits
Another effective back drag solution is the top-mounted back drag kit for snow pushers. These kits are designed to attach to the upper portion of a snow pusher, providing an extra scraping edge when the pusher is tipped forward, allowing you to pull snow backward. KAGE offers this form of back drag kit for its SnowFire BLAST pushers.
Key Features of Top-Mounted Back Drag Kits
- Increased Efficiency: By adding an extra cutting edge, these kits allow operators to clear snow more effectively when back dragging.
- Versatility: They can be used on various surfaces, from asphalt to gravel, making them ideal for multi-purpose applications.
- Enhanced Scraping Power: The added edge provides better snow removal compared to standard pushers, reducing the need for additional cleanup.
Top-mounted back drag kits are especially useful in areas like loading docks and spaces where forward-pushing motion isn’t possible. Keep in mind there are different varieties of top-mounted snow pusher back drag kits. Some are full enclosed which can contain more snow, but decrease visibility for precision work. KAGE top back drag blade features an open design for maximum visibility.
Back Drag Positioning of Plow Wings
Many snow plows come equipped with winged extensions that enhance back drag capabilities. The positioning and design of these wings impact how effectively the plow can pull snow backward. KAGE’s SnowDozer Wing plow offers the ability to hydraulically pivot the wing extensions on the front blade until they are perpendicular to the center section facing backward.
How Plow Wing Positioning Affects Back Dragging
- Increased containment: Some plows have adjustable wings that can pivot backward, increasing the snow containment for pulling snow in a controlled manner. These wings are often as tall as the plow moldboard, rather than the height of the cutting edge. This feature essentially turns the plow into a reverse snow pusher.
- Hydraulic Adjustments: Certain plows feature hydraulically controlled wings, providing operators with flexibility to adjust wing positioning based on the specific job.
When selecting a plow with back drag capabilities, it’s important to consider how the wing design will affect performance in different snow conditions.
Choosing the Right Back Drag Feature
Selecting the best back drag feature depends on the type of work being performed and the surfaces being cleared. Here are a few considerations:
- For residential driveways: A poly back drag kit is a great choice due to its ability to clear snow without damaging surfaces.
- For commercial lots and loading docks: A top-mounted back drag kit on a snow pusher enhances efficiency in tight spaces.
- For operators needing versatility: A plow with adjustable wings provides flexibility to handle a variety of back dragging needs.
Back dragging is an essential technique in snow removal, and having the right equipment can significantly improve efficiency. Whether using a poly back drag kit for surface protection, a top-mounted back drag kit for extra scraping power, or adjustable plow wings for versatility, investing in the right back drag features ensures better results and faster job completion. Snow removal professionals should evaluate their specific needs and choose the equipment that maximizes productivity in their work environment.
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