Tracked Snow Blower: Features Of Tracked Snow Blowers. Rating Of The Best Snow Blowers On Tracks. How Are These Models Different From Wheeled Snow Throwers?

2024 Author: Beatrice Philips | [email protected]. Last modified: 2024-01-18 12:09

In winter, residents of country houses and owners of summer cottages often face the problem of snow removal. Also, this issue is relevant for the utilities of apartment buildings. If earlier the only way to solve it was a shovel, today snowblowers come to the rescue. Of course, they take up more space, but they do the job better and faster.

The wide range of machines can be divided into wheeled and tracked. Each type has its own characteristics and nuances of use. From this article you can find out what a crawler snow blower is, what are its pros and cons. The most popular models of such equipment will also be considered here.

Pros and cons

If you are faced with a situation where the yard is covered with snow, you may need half a day to clear it out with a shovel. In this case, you should familiarize yourself with the technique for clearing snow on crawler tracks. The choice of models is very large, but they all have the same basic parts:

• engine;
• rotating shaft;
• body and covers, thanks to which the snow is not retained in the mechanism, but is thrown out on both sides;
• impellers look like large spirals.

Thanks to these elements, the machine fulfills its function. The process of work is as follows: the impellers lift the snow, which is then crushed in the casing. After that, with the help of a directional pipe located on the body, the snow is thrown out in the direction of travel.

An important component of the design is the wheels or tracks, which ensure the movement of transport. Let's take a look at the features of a crawler track that distinguish it from wheels.

• Better cross-country ability . Due to the large area of contact with the soil, the technique "keeps confidently", it is easier with it to clear difficult areas. Wheels do not have this feature.
• Wear resistance . Caterpillars are less whimsical and do not require frequent replacement. Of course, it is important to follow the operating rules.
• Reliability . Since rubber is not used in the production of the track pavement, it cannot be damaged. The opposite is true for wheels. If you do not notice a nail, glass or something similar in the snow, then most likely the "shoes" of the car will need to be changed.
• High tractive power . This moment allows you to work on tracks with large volumes of snow for a long period. Also, such a unit is less likely to get stuck in a snowdrift, which cannot be said about the wheeled version. In addition, tracked models are better at handling packed snow.
• Better grip . Another plus - such a snowplow will be able to work on ice or hills. In this case, you will not need to hold it by your own physical strength.

However, this technique also has its drawbacks, which should also be analyzed in advance

• Low speed . The wheeled version is much faster than the tracks. From this it follows that the cleaning time will take longer.
• Worst maneuverability . Despite the good cross-country ability, sharp turns are given to this unit with great difficulty. The structure itself is quite massive, so you need to focus on a large turning angle.
• The tracked snowblower weighs more than the wheeled version . This is because rubber is much lighter in weight. This point must be taken into account by the one who will use the unit. It is important to determine in advance whether the person will be able to carry the device and manage this weight.

• Greater gas mileage . This is a consequence of the rather large weight of the car. To keep the unit running, it must have a more powerful engine than wheeled models. Accordingly, the fuel consumption increases.
• High price . Considering all the points described above, it is easy to understand that the total cost of a tracked snow blower is higher than the cost of a wheeled version. Nevertheless, all costs are paid off during operation.

To summarize, we can say that tracked vehicles are suitable for working with a lot of rainfall. She is not afraid of sleet or ice. Also, the machine easily copes with large mounds of snow.

It is more convenient to work on relief terrain, namely on slopes and slopes. For narrow paths with a lot of turns, this is not the best option. Wheels should be preferred here.

How to choose?

All tracked models work according to the same principle. Snow together with ice is collected using an impeller, where it is crushed. Then, through the snow thrower, it is thrown out to the side a sufficient distance. This means that the system of work is not a fundamental issue in the choice. You need to focus on other points. Greater productivity is better. A good average is 11 liters. with. It provides enough power for reliable and long-lasting performance.

An important element is the size of the bucket that picks up the snow . So, for processing areas where maneuverability is needed, it is better to choose a smaller bucket. Conversely, in open and large areas, a large bucket will provide greater efficiency.

Another point is the release of snow . Each adjoining plot has an individual layout. Therefore, for some, the parameter 15 meters is suitable, while for others, only a couple of meters is enough. In addition, you can choose an option with or without a seat for more comfortable driving. Technology control systems also differ. And there is also the opportunity to buy additional parts to improve the functionality of the unit. It is worth noting that if you have a wheeled snow blower, you can alter the mechanism by purchasing chains and attaching them to the drive.

To choose the right option, you should evaluate the size and relief of the area to be cleared. It is also important how much precipitation usually falls, and what are the climatic conditions in general. It is also necessary to decide who will work with the equipment. When you have clear answers to all these questions, you can start buying a specific device.

Rating of the best models

Today, the choice of such equipment is very large. There are many manufacturers that differ in the country of production and pricing policy. Based on the characteristics and experience of real users, it is possible to compile a rating of the best models on the market.

Husqvarna ST 327PT

This is the professional version, which has a built-in four-stroke model of the engine. Husqvarna has gained popularity due to its good quality, sound insulation and minimal vibration. The unit is often used by utilities and owners of large adjoining territories. The system has several speeds that can be easily changed as needed. The technique is quite easy to operate. Maximum snow capture width - up to 68 cm.

Honda HSS655ET

This self propelled cleaner is very popular due to the brand name, but it actually has quite high performance. The model has a 12 hp gasoline engine. with. and a two-stage cleaning system. It captures snow up to 55 cm wide and throws it at a range of 14 m. Among other things, the HSS655ET is ideal for manual handling. There is also a larger version for large areas (HSM1390IKZE) with snow grip 90 cm wide and 60 cm high.

AL-KO SnowLine 760TE

This model is similar to the previous one. Here the engine is not as powerful (up to 9 HP), but there is also a two-stage cleaning. In addition, the direction of the chute and discharge pipe can be adjusted independently.

These are just a few of the well-known models that you should pay attention to . In any case, before buying, it is advisable to study the technical characteristics of the options and conclude which ones are decisive for you. It is recommended to pay attention to the engine size, body alloy and, of course, the presence of tracks or wheels. In conclusion, it is worth recalling that no matter how good a car you buy, it will serve you for a long time only with good care and timely maintenance.