Winterize your business with compact track loaders for snow removal

While skid steers are the most common equipment for snow removal, compact track loaders have become increasingly popular "winter warriors" in recent years. Since it's expensive to operate two types of machines, many Canadian contractors are opting to purchase CTLs thanks to their year-round versatility. Not only are they more productive and operate with lower ground pressure than skid steers during summer landscaping jobs; but, when paired with the right track, they also have the pushing power to move a lot of snow in the winter.  

A smart move for your business

Transitioning to snow and ice management once the ground freezes can help ensure a steady income over the winter. Furthermore, if you have employees on the payroll, you risk losing them if you don't keep your equipment running year-round. 

Purchasing your first compact track loader

Like any purchase, you'll want to do your research. Whether digging, loading, hauling, or pushing, you'll need a CTL with the power, performance, and durability to manage your toughest worksite tasks. There are many additional things to consider for the cold winter months. Since a warm operator is a productive operator, you'll want to verify the CTL has the correct vent placement for defrosting and keeping the operator cozy. Opting for heated seats is never a bad idea, as well. 

If you plan on removing wet, heavy snow from a parking lot, look for a larger CTL with a higher-rated lifting capacity. Since a lot of snow removal occurs overnight, LED lights are imperative for the best visibility. You may also want to invest in a block heater to ensure the CTL starts if you live in an especially cold climate.  

The snow removal attachments you need

Light material buckets allow you to move large amounts of snow when loading a truck for removal in parking lots and commercial areas. 

Snow pushers are also an excellent tool when clearing large areas. Be sure to look for one with a trip edge if you are working in a location where there are a lot of curbs and manholes as they're often not visible in the winter and can cause damage to your CTL.
 
Snow blowers are ideal for driveways and paths in residential areas, and foldable chutes are an excellent feature, allowing operators to direct the snow to a precise location. 

Wing blades provide incredible flexibility; the wings turn into a snow pusher when folded and can be adjusted when removing a larger width of snow.

Keep your business on track this winter 

Having the right tracks in the winter is essential. A bar track will give you terrific traction over snow and slippery surfaces. To ensure your CTL is ready for snow removal season, be sure to verify the tension of the track is within specification, adjust as needed, and replace them if they're showing wear. If you have no tread, you won't have traction. Checking all fluids and changing the engine oil is also an important step when winterizing your equipment. Remember to swap out the summer diesel for winter fuel.
 
To limit downtime and lost profits, consider performing daily inspections to keep everything in working order. Winter is harsh on the equipment and salt is a killer. Ice tends to build up in the undercarriage on tracked machines, which can damage the tracks or the carrier. 

Snow attachments are no different from others — they need to be greased often if they have hydraulic components. Keeping attachments clear of ice will also ensure optimal performance. You're not going to get a clear path if there's snow buildup or ice buildup on the cutting edge. Finally, check the blades to make sure they are not worn out. You want to clean the surface when removing snow and the blade is what achieves this.

One last push 

If you're looking to expand your business into the winter months, a compact track loader is the perfect machine. Operators with landscaping experience will find many of their skills transfer over seamlessly to snow removal. 

With the right equipment and attachments, you'll be ready to clear snow with the best of them.