For many, the winter months often mean less work since construction, farming, and other outdoor activities are restricted by the weather. That doesn’t mean that your loader has to sit idle all winter though. Loaders can actually be a very valuable piece of equipment on cold snowy days. Let’s find out how.
Starting Your Winter Maintenance?
Here are 6 Tips
Snow Removal
The most common use for loaders in the winter is for snow removal. While most people traditionally think of snowplows and snow blowers for removing large amounts of snow, skid steers and other types of loaders have many advantages over these machines. The smaller size of loaders allows them to maneuver around obstacles and tight spaces easily compared to large snowplows. Compared to plow trucks, loaders with winter snow removal attachments are less expensive. Loaders also have the advantage of being able to handle tougher and uneven terrain that push snowblowers would not be able to handle.
Types of Loader Attachments
Depending on how much snow you are expecting to plow or the size of area you need to clean, there are several snow attachments that you can choose from for your loader.
Snow Wings
- For a wide area, a snow wing is ideal thanks to its extra width.
Snow Pusher
- This attachment can be used to move large amounts of snow from one area to another.
Box Blades
- If you are looking to level the snow you are working with a box blade is a useful attachment.
Angle Broom
- This attachment is great for small amounts of snow or snow that is light.
Salt Spreader
- You may find that under the snow is a layer of ice. In this case, a salt spreader can help quickly remove the ice and prevent refreezing.
Winter Maintenance
Winter maintenance is a must whether you plan on using your loader all winter long, storing it until spring, or plan on using it once or twice through the season. The cold temperatures, snow, and ice can slow down or even stop projects if the loader is not maintained. If left unattended all winter, without the proper maintenance before it is stored, the loader may not work properly or at all come spring. Start your winter maintenance early by checking fluid levels, charging the battery, and removing dirt and buildup from the machine. For more tips on winter maintenance, check out our blog on the topic.
The winter months can be hard for those who live in snowy climates but having a loader with the right attachments makes all the difference. Whether that attachment is an angle broom to remove a little snow or a snow pusher to remove a large amount of snow, your loader can make the job easier and more efficient. Using your loader during winter rather than storing it is also good for it. Loaders that sit idle for long periods of time are more likely to freeze up and have more issues come spring. So, by using your loader this winter you are not only taking care of the snow but also keeping your loader ready for the spring ahead.
If you find a part that needs to be replaced during these cold months, trust that Loader Parts Source has what you need to get your loader back up and running. Contact us today for help finding the parts that you need.
