TOP 10 tracked snow blowers for home: characteristics, cost, opinions of owners

When choosing mechanical assistants for snow removal, Russian consumers are increasingly paying attention to tracked snow removal equipment.

Tracked models have excellent performance, which allows you to clear large areas in a short time and easily cope with compacted snow and icy areas.

The process of removing snow masses becomes easier and more comfortable, since the load on the operator is significantly reduced. An overview of tracked snow blowers is presented in the article.

Pros and cons of tracked versus wheeled snowplows

Based on the type of propulsion, there are two types of snow removal machines: wheeled and tracked.

Wheeled snow blowers are equipped with two wheels with a deep tread pattern of type X and V, made of high-quality cold-resistant rubber. The wheel drive is responsible for transmitting rotational force from the engine drive shaft to the chassis driven shaft.

The main element of the drive is the belt, which is responsible for connecting the engine and the gearboxes of the driven wheels. The small size and power of wheeled structures ensures their good maneuverability and convenient control system.

The outer surface of the track is equipped with special protrusions that increase traction on the surface. Since the main working element of the drive mechanism of a tracked snow plow is not a belt, but chains, tracked structures are designed for higher loads.

The difference in the designs of tracked and wheeled travel systems determines some advantages of tracked models over wheeled ones:

1. Strong adhesion to the surface. This is very important if snow removal is carried out on an uneven surface.

   Tracked snow blowers are capable of efficiently removing snow without slipping at an inclination angle of up to 10-15°, while wheeled ones are dangerous to use if the inclination angle exceeds 5-6°.

2. High cross-country ability. Wide tracks provide low average pressure on the ground or snow surface, which prevents deep immersion, and, as a result, excellent maneuverability even in snow drifts.
3. Good stability. The center of gravity of tracked models varies depending on the load on the machine.
4. Wear resistance. Crawler movers are durable, unpretentious, and do not require frequent maintenance, repair or replacement.
5. Reliability. Tracked travel systems are more reliable than wheeled ones. They are not subject to punctures or mechanical damage from random sharp objects caught in the snow mass.
6. Great traction force.Tracked snow blowers are more powerful and are able to cope with large volumes of complex, compacted snow and crust.
7. Ability to clean large areas. As a rule, tracked models are equipped with a more productive auger-rotor mechanism, a powerful engine, and a large bucket.

There are also a number of disadvantages:

1. Due to the slow moving speed, cleaning takes longer.
2. The tracked mechanism is more powerful, which means it weighs much more than the wheeled one. This affects the ease of control.
3. Low maneuverability. Greater weight and size determine low maneuverability. Experts recommend paying attention to models that have the ability to lock the differential for convenient turning.
4. Higher fuel consumption is a consequence of a powerful engine, which ensures the movement of a large model along the entire path of clearing snow.
5. High price. The total cost of powerful tracked mechanisms is often more than wheeled ones.
6. More complex repairs. Maintenance and repair of tracked models are more complex and expensive (the most difficult repair is for tracked chassis with hydrostatic transmission). In many cases, their independent repair is impossible.

When and which one should you buy?

The design features of wheeled and tracked models also determine the different conditions for their use.

Wheeled ones are better at clearing snow on small flat areas without dense, compacted snow and narrow garden paths, the cleaning of which requires small, maneuverable equipment.

In some situations, operating a snow blower of any type is dangerous because there is a danger of tipping over:

• on a steep slope (above 15°);
• if the flow of removed snow masses is directed towards the rise.

To summarize, we can conclude that for the home (when large areas are not required to be cleaned) it is advisable to purchase a wheeled model that is more maneuverable, cheaper, and easier to operate. If greater stability is needed, chains are put on the wheeled model.

For municipal needs, as well as for cleaning uneven surfaces and areas with compacted snow, models with a tracked movement system are purchased. They make it easy to clear snow

• yard area,
• a park,
• parking,
• parking.

How to choose?

When choosing a suitable model of a tracked snow blower, they take into account the terrain, the area of ​​the area to be removed, the amount of precipitation in the region, and the physical capabilities of the operator. These indicators determine what the optimal characteristics of the purchased model should be:

1. Engine power. The recommended power rating for tracked models is 11 hp. Such an engine will give every chance for long-term and reliable operation of the snow thrower.
2. Bucket size. The height and width of the working part of the bucket is the main value that affects the snow picking parameters and machine performance.

   If you have large areas to clean, a model with a large bucket is suitable. For medium and small areas - where greater mobility of harvesting vehicles is needed, you should choose a model with a smaller bucket.

3. Snow throw range. This parameter depends on the layout of the site and should be selected individually.
4. Cleaning system design. There are tracked models with two and three cleaning systems. Three-stage systems are chosen if large areas have to be cleaned, and also if snow drifts are likely in the region.
5. Limit angle of rotation of the chute determines the maximum direction of snow mass emission. There are systems with manual, mechanical, and electrical systems for adjusting the angle of rotation. Budget models have a fixed angle of rotation of the gutter.
6. Type of tracked chassis. Snow blowers of this type use two types of tracked chassis. Double-roller wheels (a caterpillar and two gears) are more stable in large areas with rough terrain.

   Three-roller wheels (a triangle of a drive gear and two lower support rollers) are distinguished by a larger contact area with the surface and a high center of gravity. It is rational to use them on flat, icy areas, since they are less stable on slopes.

A number of models are equipped with additional functions, increasing the comfort of control:

• the ability to adjust the center of gravity depending on the surface topography;
• the presence of an electric starter to facilitate starting the engine in frosty weather;
• blocking one of the tracks to facilitate turning when maneuvering;
• the possibility of heated handles makes snow removal more comfortable in cold weather;
• The presence of a headlight ensures work in the dark.

Rating of gasoline models with prices and reviews

Here is a description of several models of tracked snowmobiles that are most popular among buyers.

STIGA ST 5266 P Trac

Snow blower with Stiga 8.40 hp four-stroke engine.With. can be used to clear areas of any complexity. Equipped with a bucket measuring 66x53 cm, providing powerful snow capture, and a two-stage cleaning system.

It has a convenient control system (the entire system of levers is displayed on the panel in front of the operator). The auger, snow ejection chute, and impeller are made of durable, alloy steel, which ensures their long-term operation.

The model provides a mechanical system for adjusting the position of the gutter. Additional functions - heated handles and a headlight ensure comfortable work at any time of the day. The three-roller type of tracks creates excellent grip on any surface and good maneuverability. The average cost of equipment is RUB 149,990. A review of STIGA snow blowers is presented in this article.

PATRIOT Siberia 85 ET

The unit is fully equipped with automation devices. Engine 7.8 hp ensures reliable operation of equipment. Thanks to the presence of a volumetric bucket (working dimensions 60x51 cm) and a durable embossed auger, it is possible to remove wet and compacted snow.

The model is equipped with a mechanical system for adjusting the position of the chute, with the ability to throw snow up to 15 m. Quick engine starting at sub-zero temperatures is ensured by an electric starter. The model is quite maneuverable (it is possible to disable the differential).

Patriot Siberia 85 ET is purchased by public utilities for clearing large surfaces of any degree of complexity. The average cost of the unit is 102,590 rubles.

Huter SGC 8100C

Self-propelled unit with a 13 hp four-stroke gasoline engine. starts using an electric starter.There is a two-stage cleaning system with a relief auger, a spacious bucket measuring 70 by 54 cm. There is an automatic differential locking system if necessary.

The rotation of the snow ejection chute is mechanically adjusted, the maximum ejection range is 15 m. A powerful snow blower with the ability to remove a significant layer of compacted snow and crust. Additional features include a headlight for cleaning in the dark and heated handles.

Thanks to the presence of caterpillar tracks, the vehicle has a high level of maneuverability. The average cost of the model is 100,310 rubles. Read about Huter snow blowers Here.

AL-KO SnowLine 760TE

Model with two-level cleaning system equipped with a metal embossed auger, a large bucket (size 76x54.5 cm). An electric starter ensures engine operation in low temperatures. The model with a two-stage caterpillar base has high stability and excellent traction.

The unit has a mechanical system for adjusting the position of the chute, with a throw range of up to 15 m. A large fuel tank ensures long-term operation of the equipment without refueling. There is a function of illumination in the dark and heated handles. The average cost of a snow thrower is RUB 149,990.

Lifan ST7011ET

Self-propelled snow blower with a four-stroke engine producing 11 hp. equipped with a two-stage cleaning system. A volumetric bucket measuring 70 by 54 cm is capable of capturing a large layer of snow. The durable textured auger easily breaks compacted crust and ice inclusions, grinding them into crumbs.

Maneuverability is ensured by the ability to disable one of the tracks to make a turn.The metal chute is installed in the desired position using a mechanical system, the maximum throw distance is 15 m. For ease of operation, the model is equipped with heated handles and a headlight.

Modern machines provide the ability to clear snow drifts from large areas; rough terrain is allowed. The motor is equipped with an electric starter. The average cost of the model is 81,090 rubles.

Hyundai S 7713-T

Professional model, thanks to a powerful 13 hp engine. and a spacious bucket (dimensions 76.4 by 54 cm) has excellent performance. The tracked movement system provides good grip on icy surfaces and high maneuverability.

A 6-liter gasoline tank allows you to clean a large area without refueling. Moving in one pass, the snow blower clears an area of ​​76.4 cm wide and is suitable for cleaning large areas. The rotation angle of the snow ejection chute is 180°.

The machine can handle snowdrifts up to 54 cm deep. The average cost of the model is 182,990 rubles. Read about Hyundai snow blowers here.

Caiman Edo 32H

Powerful, professional equipment for cleaning large areas (wide bucket 81.5 by 51.8 cm). The durable auger easily grinds compacted snow and ice (maximum throw distance: 17 cm). The cleaning system is two-stage.

Thanks to the powerful tracked base, the equipment is very passable even in snow drifts. Cutting discs along the edges of the auger reduce snow resistance when clearing.

Despite the power, the equipment is quite mobile and maneuverable and can easily rotate 180 degrees. Electric system for adjusting the position of the chute and auger, headlight for working in the dark. Average cost – 700,000 rubles.

ELITECH SM 12EG

The weight of this model is 120 kg, but the ability to lock the differential ensures its sufficient maneuverability. A wide bucket (dimensions 71x51.5 cm) has a relief auger installed to capture large volumes of snow masses entering the ejection chute.

The position of the chute is adjusted mechanically. Effective snow removal is ensured by the powerful forward motion of the machine combined with the gripping ability of the auger.

A powerful 12 hp engine and a large fuel tank ensure long-term, high-quality operation without refueling. Switching on is done through an electric starter. There are heated handles and a headlight for working in the dark. The cost of the equipment is 148,440 rubles.

MTD Optima ME 66 T

Compact and powerful snow blower with a four-stroke MTD ThorX 80 engine with 7.9 hp. with economical fuel consumption. An electric starter is provided for easy starting in cold weather. The model is suitable for clearing snow from surrounding areas and garden areas.

The width and height of snow capture are 66 and 53 cm. A durable metal auger ensures grinding of compacted snow masses. The rotation angle of the ejection chute is 200°, the ejection range is 15 m. The chute position is adjusted electrically. Average cost – 169,990 rubles. The rating of MTD snow blowers is presented in this article.

Cub Cadet XS3 76 TDE

The model with a three-stage cleaning system is equipped with a powerful 10.6 hp engine. The volumetric bucket ensures the capture of a layer of snow measuring 76 by 58 cm. A powerful auger grinds not only compacted snow, but also ice.

The position of the metal chute is adjusted using a mechanical system; snow is thrown out at a distance of up to 18 m.It is possible to disable the differential for convenient maneuvering. The model is suitable for large, complex areas and can be used for uneven surfaces.

Additional features include headlights and heated grips. The average cost of the model is RUB 239,990. A review of Cub Cadet snow blowers is presented in this article.

How to serve?

Maintenance of tracked snow blowers is carried out both during the season and at its end. Routine maintenance is carried out independently, for the most complex manipulations, contact the service center.

After completing the work of clearing the area of ​​snow, the snow blower is cleaned of adhered snow masses. The equipment is allowed to run idle for several minutes so that all the adhered snow melts, then all parts are wiped dry to remove moisture.

If necessary, check

• operation of the auger drive and track drive systems,
• measure of wear of the scoring knife,
• measure of wear of the restrictive shoes.

If there is significant wear, replace it. If the shear pins that secure the auger to the shaft break, they will need to be replaced. This measure protects the snow blower gearbox from damage when foreign objects get into the auger.

To replace, remove broken pins from the mounting holes, clean and lubricate the holes, after which new pins and spring clips are installed.

Before starting the engine and further, every five hours of operation of the equipment, check the oil level in the engine (after the first five hours of operation, the oil is changed). In the future, the oil is changed every 50 hours of operation (more often under heavy loads).

To ensure complete elimination of used oil, it is recommended to change the oil when the engine is warm.

The work progress is as follows:

1. Place the oil drain hole in the lowest position, and install a container under it to drain the used oil.
2. Unscrew the plug and drain the oil.
3. Place the plug in place and close tightly.
4. Pour fresh oil of the brand specified in the operating instructions through the neck.

During maintenance, debris, dirt and oil deposits are periodically cleaned from the main parts of the engine with compressed air. This ensures optimal operation and cooling, eliminating the risk of fire.

Where and how to store?

At the end of the season, snow removal equipment is mothballed. For this drain all fuel from the tank and clean the fuel chamber:

• a container for draining fuel is installed under the carburetor;
• unscrew the drain bolt and drain the fuel;
• unscrew the bolt of the fuel chamber, remove and wash it;
• install the camera in place.

After changing the oil, remove the battery casing and disconnect the terminals. The battery and unit are stored in a warm, ventilated area with normal humidity levels.

At the end of the season and before turning on the engine for the first time, the cylinder bore is lubricated. After disconnecting the high-voltage wire, unscrew the spark plug and pour 30 g of engine oil into the hole.

Ensure oil distribution along the engine cylinder surface by turning the starter handle. Reinstall the spark plug. This measure makes it easier to start the engine after a long break..

Problems with caterpillars and methods for eliminating them

If the track mechanism does not work, the track drives need to be adjusted.To do this, loosen the tensioner nuts and, by moving the adjusting screw, achieve the desired length of the cable, after which the nuts are tightened. The internal parts of the tracks are lubricated with Litol 24 lubricant. If the adjustment does not help, diagnostics of the chassis is required at a service center.

The reason for the lack of movement may be a rupture of the polyurethane ring of the driven friction disc. In case of this failure, you should contact a service center to replace the ring.

Drops of moisture remaining on the tracks after snow removal can begin the corrosion process. To prevent this from happening, at the end of the work, the tracks are cleared of any remaining snow and thoroughly dried.

Adviсe

Useful tips:

1. Before purchasing, carefully inspect the chassis of the selected model to avoid the risk of early breakdown of the tracked system. Pay attention to the fastening of the links, the condition of the chain, and the presence of traces of corrosion.
2. Expensive models of tracked snow blowers have the maximum number of additional functions. Before purchasing, you need to carefully evaluate whether this or that function will be useful for the site.

   This way you will be able to choose a model that is not overloaded with unnecessary functionality at the best price.

3. Professional models of tracked snow blowers are equipped with the ability to adjust the center of gravity, which significantly increases their stability.
4. The distance of snow ejection depends significantly on the structure of snow masses and wind direction. If you have to clean large areas, you should choose models with a throw range of 10 meters or more.
5. When selecting a snow blower model, it is important to ensure that the width of the bucket is equal to or a multiple of the width of the garden paths.

Conclusion

Tracked snow blowers have proven to be reliable, powerful and passable units that work well on any surface. They cope well with difficult terrain, dense snowdrifts and icy areas.