Review of Shtil snow blowers: model range, characteristics, cost
In winter, in regions with heavy snowfall, there is a need to regularly clear yards, paths, roads, parking lots and other areas of private and municipal territories from snow.
The small yard in front of the cottage can be cleared with hand tools. Large-scale cleaning work is carried out using special snow removal equipment.
We’ll talk about Shtil snow blowers in the article.
Content
Snow removal equipment Stihl
Stihl is a well-known manufacturer of garden equipment and tools. This is a German brand, but it enterprises are located in several countries:
- Germany,
- Brazil,
- USA,
- China.
In Austria, the same products are produced under the Viking brand. You can find out the country of manufacture of a certain piece of equipment by the first digit of the serial number.
To use the tractor as a snow removal equipment, you need to purchase a mounted snow plow with a mounting kit and install it in accordance with the instructions.
Advantages and disadvantages
Choosing a Stihl mini tractor for snow removal, You can get a whole host of benefits:
- This equipment is multifunctional - in the summer it will mow grass, and besides, you can install not only a snow dump, but also a garden roller to compact the soil, or a dump trailer.
- Stihl tractors are very maneuverable, they are suitable for clearing snow around trees, along fences, and bypassing all kinds of landscaping elements.
- The snow plow is easy to operate using a handle directly from the driver's seat.
- Stihl equipment is quite reliable and durable.
The disadvantage of such equipment is that it is not cheap. In addition, the tractor needs to be stored somewhere, and, like any equipment, it requires some maintenance.
Models
Stihl's range of riders consists of several basic models, each of which has variations due to updates and slightly different export execution from different manufacturers.
RT 4082
Maneuverable tractor with gasoline engine. Tank volume 6 liters. Weighs 202 kg. Costs from 300 thousand rubles.
RT 4097 SX
This model provides a wider grip. It has a larger tank volume - 9 liters. At the same time, it weighs several kilograms less. But in terms of power and performance it is slightly inferior to the previous version. Costs from 260 thousand.
RT 5097
A slightly more powerful tractor, just as maneuverable and easy to operate as other models. Costs from 345 thousand.
RT 5097 C
Differs from the base model only in larger engine capacity. For RT 5097 it is 452 cm?, and for RT 5097 C – 500 cm?. costs from 365 thousand.
RT 5112 Z
More powerful equipment designed for processing large areas. Costs from 430 thousand rubles.
RT 6112 C
A tractor with power for large areas. It has an LCD display, which makes control more convenient and allows you to monitor technical indicators. Price – from 530 thousand.
Preparing for launch
The new mini-tractor must undergo a break-in procedure. First, they inspect it, lubricate all components and mechanisms, check the pressure level in the wheels, and refuel it.
After this, it is started at idle speed without loads. Then it must work for 10-15 hours simply as a vehicle.
Then he is gradually loaded with field work. During the running-in process in a gentle mode, the equipment parts are ground in and enter operating mode. If the tractor is faulty, running it in will allow you to immediately identify it.
Before you start the snow removal rider, you need to attach a blade to the front of it.. In order for the snow plow to be controlled from the driver’s seat, it is necessary to install all the elements of the mounting kit, which is purchased separately.
But in this case, the snow blower will be much less practical, convenient, maneuverable and productive.
Starting a tractor in winter requires following certain rules. Only in this case the changed operating conditions will not harm the equipment:
- the engine oil in the raider must be replaced with a special winter oil;
- replace water in the cooling system with antifreeze;
- fill with fuel intended for use at low temperatures;
- the engine needs to be insulated - lay plywood between the engine and the radiator, cover the hood with a cover (this will help preserve the engine and reduce fuel consumption);
- the battery must have a high electrolyte content and good outgoing voltage, otherwise in the cold it will be difficult to start the engine;
- In order for the oil to reliably protect parts from damage at sub-zero temperatures, it must be well warmed up, so after starting the engine, you need to give it time to warm up, and only then start driving.
Maintenance and storage
A mini tractor, regardless of whether it is used as a snow removal equipment or a lawn mower, requires careful care.
It is necessary to monitor its technical condition, and, if necessary, repair or replace failed parts.
It is important to change oil and antifreeze promptly. During intensive use, equipment must be subject to routine inspection.
The tractor should be stored in a special room. It must reliably protect equipment and all auxiliary equipment from precipitation.
Where to buy, at what price?
There are official representatives of Stihl in all major cities of Russia. In each region there is at least one online store that supplies Stihl mini tractors and other products from this manufacturer.
Find out more details about the configuration, technical features of the models, additional equipment, new products, etc. can be found on the official website of the organization.
Alternative options
In addition to a tractor with a snow plow, there are other equipment options for clearing snow from an area. For example, An economical hand (mechanical) tool is suitable for cleaning a small yard. It is a scraper mounted on a wheeled base.
It needs to be pushed in front of you, setting the direction of the snow removal element. You can purchase a manual snow blower with rotating augers. Such a tool costs around five thousand rubles.
Large areas can be cleared using self-propelled machines. Their wheels and augers rotate automatically.The person operating such equipment simply gives it direction.
The self-propelled device not only collects snow, but also, if there is a drainage element, throws it several meters (the throw distance depends on the model).
An electric self-propelled snow blower can be purchased for about 10 thousand. Models running on gasoline are more expensive – from 25 thousand. Premium professional gasoline models cost from 200 thousand rubles.
This attachment option made individually for a particular tractor model. It can cost from 10 to 20 thousand.
Car repair
If the snow plow or individual elements of its fasteners break, you can carry out repairs yourself. If there is a need to repair the tractor itself, it is better to contact the nearest service center or call a specialist.
Conclusion
There are various options for snow removal equipment for snow removal. The Stihl company offers its customers to clear snow using a special attachment that is installed on lawn mower riders.
This option is ideal for those who already have a Stihl mini tractor and want to expand its functionality.. But to clear the area of snow, you can use other options for snow blowers.
This can be hand tools, self-propelled electric or gasoline equipment, complex rotary or auger attachments.
