Bobcat, John Deere, and Kubota are top brands – they make the best skid steer snow blower for most people. The “best” one for you depends on your budget, how much snow you get, and the size of your machine.
I’ve used a lot of these over the years. A good snow blower can turn a long, hard job into a quick one. You want a brand that builds tough gear that won’t quit on you.
This guide will look at the top makers. We’ll see what makes each one stand out. I’ll also share what to look for when you buy.
Who Makes the Best Skid Steer Snow Blower Overall?
This is the big question. The answer isn’t the same for everyone.
Bobcat is a huge name in this space. They build machines that are known for being tough. Their snow blowers match their loaders well.
John Deere is another giant. They make gear for big farms and small lots. Their blowers are built to last a long time.
Kubota makes great compact equipment. Their snow blowers are no different. They offer good power for the size.
When you ask who makes the best skid steer snow blower, think about support. Can you get parts easily? Is there a dealer nearby?
My top pick for most folks is Bobcat. They have a wide range of sizes. Their build quality is very good for the price.
Key Features of a Great Skid Steer Snow Blower
Not all snow blowers are the same. You need to look at a few key things.
The cutting width matters a lot. A wider blower clears a path faster. But it also needs more power from your skid steer.
Look at the construction. Are the augers made of strong steel? Is the chute built well? These parts take a beating.
The chute control is important too. Can you turn it from your cab? A hydraulic chute is the best way to go.
Think about the intake height. A higher intake can handle deeper snow. This is key if you get big storms.
You also want good skid shoes. They protect the blower and the ground. Adjustable ones let you work on different surfaces.
Top Brands for Skid Steer Snow Blowers
Let’s break down the top players. Each brand has its own strengths.
Bobcat makes some of the most popular models. Their Bobcat brand is trusted by contractors. They offer blowers from 60 to 90 inches wide.
John Deere is famous for yellow equipment. Their blowers are built for heavy use. They often come with great warranty terms.
Kubota makes reliable machines. They focus on efficiency and operator comfort. Their blowers are a smart choice for smaller properties.
Other good brands include Virnig and Erskine. They make strong aftermarket attachments. These can fit many different skid steer models.
When you ask who makes the best skid steer snow blower, don’t forget these smaller brands. They sometimes offer better value.
How to Match a Blower to Your Skid Steer
Size and power matter here. You can’t just pick any blower.
Check your machine’s hydraulic flow rate first. The blower needs a certain flow to work right. Too little flow and it will be weak.
Look at your machine’s rated operating capacity. A heavy snow blower needs a strong loader. You don’t want to be at max capacity all the time.
The mounting system must match. Is it a universal skid steer quick attach? Or a brand-specific pattern? Get this wrong and it won’t fit.
Think about your common jobs. Clearing a long driveway is different from a parking lot. The right width saves you time and fuel.
Always check the manufacturer’s guide. They list which blowers work with which machines. This avoids big, costly mistakes.
Benefits of Using a Skid Steer Snow Blower
Why choose a blower over a plow? There are some clear wins.
A blower removes the snow completely. You don’t just push it into a pile. This saves space and stops piles from melting back onto your path.
You can direct the snow where you want it. Throw it into the woods or a truck. This gives you total control.
They work great in deep snow. A plow can get stuck or just ride over the top. A blower chews through it and throws it out.
It’s easier on your machine. Plowing puts a lot of strain on the loader arms and frame. A blower is a more balanced attachment.
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, clearing snow safely is important. A blower lets you work from the cab, away from the cold.
Common Mistakes When Buying a Snow Blower
I see people make the same errors. Let’s avoid them.
Buying too big is a common one. A huge blower on a small machine strains the hydraulics. It also costs more upfront.
Ignoring the hydraulic requirements is bad. Your machine must have enough flow and pressure. Check the specs before you buy.
Forgetting about maintenance access is a headache. Can you easily grease the fittings? Is it simple to check the auger bolts?
Not thinking about storage is another issue. These are big attachments. You need a place to keep it in the off-season.
Choosing based on price alone often backfires. The cheapest blower might wear out fast. Spending a bit more now can save money later.
Maintenance Tips for Longevity
Take care of your blower, and it will last for years. It’s not hard.
Grease it after every use. Snow and ice mean moisture. Moisture leads to rust on bearings and joints.
Check the auger blades and cutting edge each season. Look for cracks or bad wear. Replace parts before they break completely.
Wash out the inside when you’re done for the year. Salt and dirt can sit and cause corrosion. A hose does the trick.
Store it off the ground if you can. Use a pallet or blocks. This keeps the bottom from rotting out.
Look at the hydraulic hoses for leaks or cracks. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health says to check equipment often. This stops accidents.
Cost and Value Considerations
What should you expect to pay? It varies a lot.
A new blower from a big brand can cost thousands. The price depends on width, features, and build quality. Hydraulic chutes cost more than manual ones.
Used blowers can be a great deal. Look for one from a reputable brand. Check for weld repairs or worn-out parts.
Think about the total cost of owning it. This includes maintenance, repairs, and storage. A cheap blower might have high upkeep costs.
Does it add value to your machine? Having the right attachments makes your skid steer more useful. This can help if you ever sell it.
For many owners, the value is in time saved. Clearing snow fast gets you back inside. That’s worth paying for.
Hydraulic vs. Mechanical Chute Control
How you aim the snow is a big choice. Let’s compare the two.
A hydraulic chute is controlled from your cab. You use levers to turn it and adjust the angle. This is fast and convenient.
A mechanical chute means you have to get out. You turn a crank or pull a lever by hand. This is slower and gets you cold.
Hydraulic systems cost more money. They also add complexity with more hoses and a cylinder. They can leak or need service.
Mechanical chutes are simpler and cheaper. They have fewer parts that can break. But they slow down your work a lot.
For most people who clear snow often, hydraulic is the way to go. The time and comfort you gain are worth the extra cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who makes the best skid steer snow blower for residential use?
For home use, look at Bobcat or Kubota. They make smaller, well-built models. These are perfect for driveways and paths.
What size snow blower do I need for my skid steer?
Match the blower width to your machine’s power. A good rule is a 72-inch blower for a medium-sized loader. Always check your machine’s manual first.
Can I use any brand of snow blower on my skid steer?
Not always. The attachment plate must match. Many use a universal pattern, but some brands are different. Check compatibility before you buy.
How much hydraulic flow does a snow blower need?
It varies by model. Most need 15 to 30 gallons per minute (GPM). Check your skid steer’s output and the blower’s requirement.
Who makes the best skid steer snow blower for heavy commercial use?
For commercial jobs, John Deere and Bobcat are top picks. They build heavy-duty models for parking lots and long roads. Their gear is made for daily use.
Is a snow blower better than a plow?
For deep snow removal, yes. A blower gets rid of the snow. A plow just moves it. For light snow, a plow might be faster and cheaper.
Conclusion
So, who makes the best skid steer snow blower? The answer depends on your needs.
For most users, Bobcat is a safe and reliable choice. They offer great quality and good dealer support. Their range of sizes fits many machines.
Do your homework before you buy. Match the blower to your loader’s power. Think about how you’ll use it most. A good blower is an investment that pays off every winter.
