Getting the best traction for skid steers in the winter is dependent on multiple factors such as:
- What is the surface below the snow and/or ice?
- How much snow is on the ground?
- How hard is it packed?
- Is there ice?
Those conditions affect which type of vehicle propulsion will work best such as wheels or tracks. The three most common ways to gain traction on snowy surfaces for skid steers are to use:
- Tracks
- Snow Tires
- Chains
Tracks
Tracked skid steers, called compact track loaders, are a solid solution for plowing snow when there is no need or desire for the propulsion system to get all of the way down to bare ground or pavement.
The wide tracks offer a stable surface that disperses weight over larger areas, allowing the compact track loader to drive across the top of thick snow and get more points of contact with icy surfaces.
Think of it like a snowmobile, which uses tracks to crawl and skim across the top of the snow.
Compact track loaders (CTLs) will also provide the smoothest ride for the operator as they generally offer some suspension. They also climb over large bumps and divots with ease.
Snow tires
If you’re plowing snow on paved surfaces which are frequently cleared, and the snow is fairly loose, wheeled skid steers with snow tires are the best solution.
Skid steer snow tires are designed to be narrower than standard skid steer tires. This allows the tires to work their way through the snow more easily to reach that paved surface below – where the traction lies. The snow tires will gain traction from the friction between the tires and the pavement rather than crawling across the top of the snow.
Wheeled skid steers generally are able to travel at higher speeds than CTLs. This is only amplified as tire diameter increases. Skid steer snow tires, such as KAGE Klawz are often larger in diameter than skid steer tires designed for dirt.
The ability to travel at higher speeds is important not only for clearing snow faster, but for transporting your plow/machine to different plowing locations.
Since most wheeled skid steers do not offer much in the form of suspension, having the right tires can help. While bias ply snow tires generally offer a lower price tag, radial snow tires will generate a more comfortable ride with better handling – especially for sharp turns.
Snow Chains
Snow chains are another great way to gain extra traction in the snow. If you’ve ever driven through the mountains in the winter, you may have noticed the “chains required” signs. This is because chains are proven to increase traction in snowy or icy conditions.
With that being said, chains can be hard on paved surfaces and may not be allowed in many residential areas or commercial parking lots. However, if you are plowing gravel roads, parking lots or driveways, this may be a great option.
Chains are more aggressive than snow tires and rubber tracks, which is great for traction – especially on ice. Just be sure you’re not causing damage in the process.
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