Snow - to push or throw?

[JJetC 0]

I just purchased my first Wheel Horse (312-8) which came with a Snow Plow. Now I'm trying to decide whether to search for a thrower, but I have no idea how well the plow will work in my area. I live in Mass. where we typically get a few good sized storms each winter dumping up to 12 inches and ranging from fluffy to very wet. My driveway is about 150 feet on a good slope.

From your experience, how well will a plow work vs. a thrower with those conditions? Any tricks to how you approach pushing the snow?

[VinsRJ 723]

First

IMO, I live in CT and receive about the same snow amount/storm rate as you. A thrower is the way to go. A blade will work for the medium storms and moderate snow fall seasons but, as a season progresses and we get more consistant snow a blower IMO helps keep the end of driveway mounds and driveway sides in check better.

I've seen pick up trucks struggle as the snow pack thickens.

[WheelHorse_of_course 99]

I agree with Vin.

That said, the best arrangement is both, along with two tractors so they are both ready

:thumbs:

[qd-16 14]

I also agree, the easiest solution to this problem is have TWO wheel horses, one with a blower and one with a blade. :thumbs2:

[Duff 206]

What Vin said!

But inevitably you'll end up with two (or more) tractors and will have a choice of weapons!

Duff :thumbs:

[TJ 184]

You can throw some snow with a 312.

Thats the way I would go.

[JJetC 0]

Thanks everyone for your advice. Great ammo for when I need to explain to Wifey why I need another Horse!

OK, it sounds like if I have to have just one, a thrower would be best in my area. Anyone know what model # throwers will work with a 312-8? I saw a brand new one on E-bay but it was listed as being compatible with another model.

[WHC-125 4]

I seen that brand new one as well, and unless you want to do some modifying to a brand new piece of equipment I wouldnt get it. Also, stevebo I think has a snowblower for sale.

[Hallas 0]

You seem to be describing my driveway! I live in central mass with a steep slope a little less than yours. I have a 257 w/snowblower that I am going to try out this winter for the first time.

[TJ 184]

You should be able to buy a good used one for around $200.00.

Good luck. :thumbs2:

[stevebo-(Moderator) 8,527]

I traded my blower with another member here for a 48 inch plow. I am in CT and unless you get 12 inches of snow and you can hold yourself back from going out and playing oh I mean plowing a few times during the storm then I like the plow. I agree with Duff, you will end up with at least two more tractors then three and so on... If you really want a snowblower set up i have a Case 222 hydro with a snowthrower for sale if you are interested.... Good luck

[wallfish 18,072]

I have a 42" blower for sale that will fit your machine. Where are you in MA? You can PM or shoot me an email

[Jim_M 179]

You probably should have 3 tractors for snow removal.

I have a blade on a 308-8 for the light snows, a blower and cab on a 416-H for the heavy snows and a loader on a D-160 in case it really hits the fan.

[Red Iron 1]

LOL Jim, GREAT excuse to buy a coupla more Wheelhorses, one for

every job??? I'd have to build a BIG stable to hold em all.

I like I prefer to toss the snow (throw/blow) as it helps ccntrol

drifting alot better than piled up snow. But as the snow gets heavier,

you will appreciate the blower more. Weights are a BIG plus as well

chains. It's amazing how far my ST374 used to throw! It even buried me

once when the chute popped off once- ya guess it SNOW GEYSER! :thumbs2:

[Horse Fanatic 51]

I also live in MA, I did my driveway for years with a 48" plow on a 312-8. The two problems I encountered were if we got a lot of heavy snow, I'd have to go out after about 6" fell and do it again when the storm was over. The other thing is the snow plow won't push back a frozen snow bank so I would start the season pushing the snow well off the driveway to leave room for the following storms. In years we really got dumped on, and the snow banks came up to the edge of the driveway, I'd bring a loader home from work and push the banks back.

Last year I picked up a snowblower attachement ($100 on craigs list) and I have to say it's easier and faster.

Glenn

[Wilsonrl48747 0]

The only thing to consider is if your driveway is paved or gravel. I have a blower and a blade, just got the blade a couple of months ago. I love my blower on my C120, but I have to adjust the skids so the blower doesn't pick up gravel and fling it at the house/cars. The blower is awesome, but by leaving that bottom inch of snow or so, its kind of a mess in the driveway. My plan is to use the plow and push WAY into the yard the first few times and hope I went far enough to have enough room to keep piling it up for the season. Worst case is drop the plow and attach the blower and clear the snow that way. I do like the idea of getting a second tractor though.....wonder if the wife will see the logic.