Self-propelled snowblowers

Types of petrol snowblowers

There are quite a few approaches to the classification of self-propelled snow plows. Fundamental differences are associated with the technical features of the mechanism, the weight of the structure and its consumer characteristics.

One- and two-stage

Depending on the operation of the mechanism, the following devices are distinguished:

1. Single-stage - the equipment works in 1 cycle: rotating augers carry away the snow mass and immediately direct it into a chute, through which it is thrown several meters. The faster the augers rotate, the further the snow is thrown. Therefore, the fuel consumption of such a machine will be higher, and the service life will be shorter.
2. Two-stage are more expensive but also more popular models. In them, the production cycle is divided into 2 processes - the augers only carry away the snow, and it is thrown away with the help of a special blade rotor. Therefore, the service life of such units is noticeably longer.

Based on the design features of the mechanism, one- and two-stage machines can be compared as follows.

Table 1. Comparison of one-stage and two-stage mechanisms.

Two-stage snow blower is more efficient than one-stage

Light, medium and heavy

By weight, all gasoline cleaners are conventionally divided into 3 categories:

1. Lungs - up to 55 kg.
2. Medium - 55-80 kg.
3. Heavy - over 80 kg.

On wheels and tracks

On this basis, models are distinguished:

1. Wheeled type.
2. Caterpillar type.

Wheels are mounted on all non-self-propelled and on some self-propelled models. The tread has a specific pattern that improves traction and thereby reduces the likelihood of slipping. Also, the tire is equipped with special spikes, which allows the installation to move even on an uneven surface.

But if there is too much snow on the site, the wheels may slip. Then the best solution would be to purchase a crawler-driven snow blower. Thanks to its larger surface area, this setup works well on the surface and propels the machine forward with confidence. Caterpillars will become indispensable in icy areas, slopes, etc.

How to choose?

The consumers are faced with a rather serious task in the selection of self-propelled equipment for servicing the territory in the winter. In the available variety of unit modifications, the following fundamental characteristics of the machines deserve special attention.

Propeller type

Tracked devices will have better grip on snow and ice, therefore, equipment in this category will better and faster cope with the task of collecting packed snow and ice crust on the site. And good adhesion of equipment to the surface of the site will greatly facilitate the operator's work with such units.

If you still like wheeled vehicles more, then the way out of the situation will be the acquisition of snow chains, which will need to be put on the wheels if necessary to solve complex tasks for cleaning the site. It is quite possible to service wheeled snow blowers independently without resorting to the services of service centers.

Motor type

Gasoline cars will be very demanding on the quality of the fuel used, which can become a serious problem in Russian realities. For diesel devices, the seasonality of the fuel used should be monitored. Summer diesel fuel cannot withstand a temperature drop of more than -5 C. For regions where thermometer marks can drop to -35 C, owners will have to stock up on Arctic diesel fuel for servicing and refueling a self-propelled snow blower.

Gasoline units in this regard will be more versatile, however, the use of low-quality fuels and lubricants with impurities and additives can adversely affect the operational resource.

Bucket dimensions

For self-propelled snow blowers, the main advantage in ensuring productivity and quality of service of the territory will be the large size of the working bucket for collecting snow masses. Self-propelled units are equipped with a rotary or screw-rotor drive, due to which the devices, for the most part, are capable of throwing snow over impressive distances.

Advantages and disadvantages

If you are faced with a situation where the yard is covered with snow, you may need half a day to clear it 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 the caterpillar 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 to clear difficult areas with it. 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. Because 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 moment 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 not difficult 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.

Principle of operation

1. What is the best engine to take as the basis for the future unit? It is about putting an electric motor into the structure, or a motor that runs on gasoline.
2. If the area is large, then it is better to use a gasoline engine. In addition, you will not be disturbed by the cord from the electric motor, which can freeze in winter than cause a short circuit.
3. It would be more expedient to choose a gasoline analogue of a snow blower.
4. The next point will be the choice of the basis for the future snowblower, i.e. you will have to do the entire structure yourself, including the main working units, or a walk-behind tractor or other means will be used as a driving force.
5. If the walk-behind tractor is the basis, then the design of the snow blower will be reduced only to the manufacture of the bucket and the auger located in it. Naturally, one cannot do without an outlet pipe and an elementary metal frame.

6.In this configuration, the power take-off shaft located in the walk-behind tractor will be connected to the rotor of the snow blower, which will set the entire structure in motion.

7.In a self-propelled gasoline snow blower, made without the use of external units, the principle of operation is somewhat different. The wheelbase or tracks, whichever you install on the machine, will drive the snow blower on their own.

Principle of operation

8. Otherwise, it will work in the same way as a snow blower on a walk-behind tractor. Rotating blades, located on the metal shaft of the auger mechanism, scoop up the snow mass towards the center.

9.There are two plates, which also rotate, raking the snow further, transferring it to the rotary mechanism. The rotor makes additional crushing of the snow cover, transferring it further into the outlet pipe.

10. From the pipe, the snow mass flies out at a certain distance (the throwing distance will depend on the power of the engine used).

Features of the complete set

If you use an internal combustion engine in the design, then in the frame of the snow blower it is worthwhile to provide a place for the fuel tank, where the fuel will be poured.

Internal combustion engine

Almost all structural elements are made independently, which allows you to save a lot on the purchase of various parts. For example, the frame is something like a sled, which, in principle, can be used for the base

It is only important that they are metal.

The sides of the bucket can be made not from metal, but from ordinary plywood or chipboard 1 cm wide.This can be justified in the event that you have a shortage of sheet iron.

You can also change the width of this bucket upwards. Naturally, this is only advisable if you have a gasoline engine of sufficient power. Sometimes it is easier to buy a whole device than to look for components for a self-assembled one, and in this case it is better to think about purchasing a Champion 656 snow blower, which we will tell you about in more detail here.

Variety of models

Currently, there is a wide variety of snow removal equipment. Taking into account its characteristics, various types and classifications are distinguished.

Depending on the method of travel, they are self-propelled and non-self-propelled.

According to the type of power unit, there is a gasoline and electric snowblower.It is not worth talking in detail about the type of engine. Already from the name it is clear that in the first case, the car moves due to the combustion of gasoline, and in the second, thanks to the electricity supplied to the motor.

By the type of drive, snow blowers are divided into tracked and wheeled. The first option is a professional technique. The second type is more popular with individuals. Wheeled models are a cheaper option.

Operating tips

The right snow blower will not be effective without quality maintenance.

For service, it is important to understand how it works. Snow blower preparation starts with a few moments

Study instructions. If the assembly of equipment is required, you need to do this operation exactly according to the instructions. Individual nodes are sometimes removed. If the bucket or auger is not properly installed, permanent breakdowns will occur.

• Visual inspection. Users are advised to inspect all wiring and cables. They should not be bent. You can see the available fasteners. Screws and bolts must be tightly tightened. If something is not tightened enough, fix it.
• Trial run. The first start of the electric snow blower auger is carried out during operation. The switch is held for 5-10 seconds. During this time, you need to track, or the auger rotates without jerks, and generally moves. If something is wrong, you can try adjusting the length of the cables. Adjustment is needed if the auger “shakes” after stopping. The entire adjustment operation is described in detail in the instructions for the product. The steps vary from manufacturer to manufacturer.

How to choose a snow blower

Choosing the right snow blower is the key to successfully clearing snow from your yard. Many factors should be considered when choosing.

Please note the following:

How the engine is started (manual, automatic, combined).

The dimensions of the bucket that will grip the snow (its width can be in the range of 40-100 centimeters).

Engine power and type. The larger the area, the more powerful the snow machine should be.

Transmission. She is responsible for productivity and usability. So, to transport the machine to the place of work or, conversely, to the place of storage, an overdrive is used. Loose, freshly fallen snow can be cleaned by engaging middle gear. If the snow has time to pack or it is wet, icy, the machine should be operated at a reduced speed.

Caterpillars or wheels. Wheeled vehicles have high speed, better maneuverability. But the permeability is higher for tracked models, which are able to overcome various irregularities.

The material from which the snow chute is made. The metal chute is more durable and throws snow with greater precision. But the plastic element is cheaper, it does not rust, and snow does not adhere to it.

The distance the snow is thrown.

The speed at which the machine moves during operation.

Fuel consumption (for petrol models) or power consumption (for electric models).

In addition to these indicators, it is important to decide which area will be cleaned. For a small area, you can choose the auger option

It has a small size, good maneuverability. But it is powered by electricity. For plots with an area of ​​up to two acres, an electric machine with an engine with a capacity of up to two kilowatts will be enough.

Larger areas require more powerful equipment. For areas ranging from four to six acres, gasoline snow blowers with a capacity of up to five horsepower are chosen. If the area is more than ten acres, then it is better to give preference to gasoline engines with a capacity of eight to thirteen horsepower.

For such options, it is worth choosing snow blowers that have both an auger and a rotor. These models are equipped with a wide bucket. Their gearbox is multistage.

Advantages and disadvantages

Wheeled or tracked self-propelled snow blowers have strengths and weaknesses that should be studied before purchasing devices. The advantages of the units include such characteristics.

• The main positive feature of the machines is their operating principle, which does not require any effort, pushing the cleaning equipment in front of you. To operate and transport the snow blowers, it will be enough to simply direct the unit in the right direction.
• As a rule, most models of self-propelled devices will be many times productive non-self-propelled counterparts, regardless of the manufacturer. This quality makes it possible to operate snow blowers to work with wet snow or ice.
• Self-propelled vehicles are several times easier to transport to the storage place after the end of the cleaning of the territory.
• The best modifications have a regulator for the location of the auger relative to the ground, in light of which the operator can independently determine the level of remaining snow in the area. This function is especially in demand during the maintenance of decorative areas in landscape design.
• Diesel and gasoline units have in their design shear bolts made of soft alloys, which reduce the risk of serious breakdowns when the auger interacts with any solid obstacle.

However, wheeled and tracked vehicles are also not without some disadvantages:

• almost all models of self-propelled snow blowers will cost several times more than non-self-propelled units for cleaning territories;
• along with the cost of cars, the price of their maintenance, repairs, components increases;
• in light of the large mass, such equipment will be more difficult to transport in the trunk of a car or in a trailer.

Rating of the best household models

It is worth considering which models are the most popular at the moment. They are used to perform work in a small area. The battery is designed for about 30 - 50 minutes of operation, after which it needs to be charged from the 220V mains.

GreenWorks GD40SSK4

This is an excellent solution to everyday tasks, which is manually controlled. It uses a state-of-the-art DigPro brushless motor. The model does not pollute the environment and runs quite quietly. The auger is made of reinforced plastic and therefore does not scratch the coating. This device is quite simple to operate. Only one speed is used. The manufacturer has provided for a system of protection against accidental activation, as well as an additional handle for a firm grip.

Specifications:

• Wheel system.
• Snow rejection up to 6 meters.
• High impact plastic auger.

• Bucket size 300 × 150 mm.
• Battery Li-ion 40 V.
• One battery is used.

Advantages:

• Reliable DigPro engine is used.
• Low price.
• Reliable construction.
• Does not damage the surface during operation.
• Throwing snow far away.

Disadvantages:

• Enough for 30 minutes of work.
• One speed.
• It takes a long time to charge.

Denzel EST-51Li

This model is designed for snow removal in a private area or near a garage. It is larger than the previous model. Management takes place with a handle. The wheel system is small, so it can only be used on flat surfaces. Cannot be used if the snow is deep. You will have to first level the surface with a shovel.

Specifications:

• Wheel system.
• Snow rejection up to 5 meters.
• Adjusting the range of snow throwing.
• Ejection side can be selected.

• Rubberized metal auger.
• Bucket size 510X210 mm.
• Battery Li-ion 40 V.
• One battery is used.

Advantages:

• The range of snow throwing can be adjusted.
• Reliable construction.
• You can work up to 45 minutes.
• Snow throwing range adjustment.
• Stylish design.
• There are headlights that allow you to work in the evening.

Disadvantages:

• Small wheels, which reduces maneuverability.
• The auger is not serrated.
• There is no starter.
• In severe frost, it often stalls, and the charge ends faster.

GreenWorks GD40SB 2600607

This is a fairly compact and popular model today. With its help, it is convenient to collect only fallen snow. A single-stage auger system is used. The wheels are of sufficient diameter to move freely on level ground. One battery charge lasts about 40 minutes. The manufacturer has provided for the presence of headlights so that you can work in the evening. The battery retains its original capacity for a long time.

Specifications:

• Wheel system.
• Snow rejection up to 6 meters.
• Adjusting the range of snow throwing.
• There are headlights.

• Ejection side can be selected.
• The auger is metal.
• Bucket size 510X250 mm.
• Battery Li-ion 40 V.

Advantages:

• The range of snow throwing is regulated.
• Three LEDs.
• The side for snow throwing is selected.
• The bucket can be rotated 190 degrees.
• Light weight and good maneuverability.

Disadvantages:

• Small wheels.
• No starter.
• There is no wheel locking system.
• Quite noisy work.
• Some users complain about strong vibration.

GreenWorks 2600107UB

A good household model that can run up to 40 minutes. Reliable DigPro motor with digital control is used. The efficiency of snow removal equipment is high, so some people use it not only for solving everyday problems.

Specifications:

• Wheel system.
• Snow rejection up to 6 meters.
• Adjusting the range of snow throwing.
• Ejection side can be selected.

• Rubberized metal auger.
• Bucket size 510X250 mm.
• Li-ion battery 80 V.

Advantages:

• The range of snow throwing is regulated.
• Powerful battery.
• You can work for an hour without recharging.
• The side for snow throwing is selected.
• Comfortable and large handle.
• The bucket can be rotated 180 degrees.
• Light weight and good maneuverability.

Disadvantages:

• Small wheels.
• No starter.
• Works noisy, up to 96 dB.

What kind of snow blower do you use?

Battery-powered gasoline

Model comparison table

That is, the first snow blower is considered the most budgetary and low-power. It is better to buy other devices if you do not plan to remove snow from a small area. The last unit is the most powerful, but its price is higher, so not everyone can afford it.

Review of the factory shovel Ergomax est3211 (220 V)

Author of the channel “Simple Instructions. Step by step ”has been using an electric snow shovel for the second year. The exact name of this tool is electric snow blower, model Ergomax est3211. The tool is designed for cleaning freshly fallen snow near a 220 volt source.

Ergomax est3211 specifications

I chose this electric shovel, since it has the minimum mass among tools of this type, weighs only 6.5 kilograms, and is easy to operate. The price of this tool also seemed attractive - I bought it for 5.5 thousand rubles.

Other characteristics of Ergomax est3211. Maximum throwing distance 6 meters, throwing direction only forward. Working width 32 centimeters, working depth 15 centimeters. Power consumption 1100 watts, power supply from a network with parameters of 220 volts 50 hertz.
The snow blower's own cable is only 50 centimeters long, so an extension cord is required. Must have a cable with a cross-section that corresponds to a load of 1100 watts. Use cables designed for winter use. Recommended characteristics of the extension cord flexible power copper cable with two stranded conductors with a cross-section of 1.5 square millimeters in rubber insulation and sheath, 30-40 meters long. Rubber power plug. Single power rubber connector.

How to work safely and according to the rules

When cleaning the area, there is a danger of hitting the cable; care must be taken that the cable is not under the operator's feet and in the path of the tool.
During operation, the snow blower throws snow six meters ahead, so it cannot be used if there are people or animals nearby.The electric shovel shovels snow from the surface of the earth, so you need to make sure that there is no debris or other objects in the area that needs to be cleared of snow. If foreign objects fall under the rotating auger, it may break. If the foreign objects are small, such as sand or small stones, the snow blower will not break, but it can damage cars, glazing, fences and other obstacles. Therefore, do not use the tool near such fixed obstacles. For all reasons, it is forbidden to use the product in poor visibility and poor lighting conditions, in a state of fatigue or illness. It is recommended to use at air temperatures from minus 5 to minus 30 degrees Celsius, when the snow is dry and easily crumbles. It is convenient to use it when the snow is loose, freshly fallen, when the snow layer does not exceed 15 centimeters. But if the snow is more than 15 centimeters deep, you can remove it in layers. If the snow is caked, you can break it with a shovel or other tools and throw it with an electric snow shovel.
It is not recommended to transfer broken ice, as the plastic auger can be damaged by pieces of ice.

Effectiveness of a shovel for winter

In 10 minutes I cleared an area of ​​about 25-30 square meters. The work was not long and hard, but short and pleasant. The air temperature changes rapidly and approaches zero. I managed to remove the dry snow until everything started flowing.

Helpful hints and warnings

The main advice, which applies not only to home-made types of a snow blower, but also to units purchased in a store, is to observe basic safety precautions and the rules for operating this snow blower robot.

Here are the main ones:

• Check the integrity of the drive belts, as well as other structural parts, before each start-up of the unit.
• Dress appropriately for winter, i.e. warm clothing with boots with non-slip soles.

As for the unit itself, it is better to use a belt as a drive than a chain system. If a breakdown occurs, the belt will simply slip, but the chain may jam, which will lead to breakdown of the entire snow blower.

Fastening the auger to the shaft

It would be advisable to use shear bolts that attach the auger to the drive shaft. If large objects enter the bucket, they are sheared off, which destroys the auger before the elements can enter the snow blower engine. Again, this can significantly increase the lifespan of your DIY device. You may also be interested in the following article, which provides detailed instructions on how to make a snow blower from a motor cultivator with your own hands.

Conclusion

Modern life cannot be imagined without units that make life much easier for people. These are self-propelled gasoline snow blowers, the price of which ranges from several hundred to a thousand dollars. These units have become an integral part of every person's life, because they help everyone out in winter.

A large number of different gasoline, self-propelled models are available on the market. There are also European, domestic and high-quality Chinese models. The choice of engine power should be based on the area to be cleaned and the area where the equipment will be used.

But, do not forget that a self-propelled snowplow that runs on gasoline costs a lot of money, but it is an indispensable purchase for any person.