Snow B8200 Snow Removal

[Drive4Fun]

For over 10 years I've been removing (plowing) snow from my own 250' of drive, and likewise for 5 neighbors. Two of the drives are paved; 4 are gravel; all reasonably level. Located in the Ann Arbor, Michigan area. Been doing this with my B8200 HST 4WD and 6' rear blade.

I'm getting too old for all this backing, looking-over-my-shoulder, so I'm looking for options. What seems best to me would be a front-mounted blade, but I've been unable to locate one. I don't have FEL, and it's not an option I would consider.

$1,500 is the max I'm prepared to spend.

Recommendations please.

 

[Thomas]

Welcome to TBN first of all. /w3tcompact/icons/smile.gif
$1,500.oo for an easier way to plow snow w/out looking back /w3tcompact/icons/hmm.gif
If it was I..I would be looking for a second hand front end loader in good shape and have it install,or you might get lucky and find a second snow blower,but I feel your going to have to up your bottom dollar.

 

[Drive4Fun]

Thomas:
Thanks for the quick reply.
My problem with FEL is that I mow, weekly(summer of course), about 2-1/2 acres of grass. This mowing involves some very steep grades and threading my way around trees and a pond.
It seems that:
1) Mowing with FEL would be difficult, and maybe dangerous.
2) Weekly removal would be a real pain.
Since I have no experience with FEL beyond looking at them at my dealer, I could be very wrong on this.

What do you think?

Also, my dealer said that Kubota did at one time sell a front-mount blade, but discontinued it several years ago. Any idea how I can track this down?

 

[Bob_Trevithick]

<font color=blue>...2) Weekly removal would be a real pain.</font color=blue>

Not from what I hear. It supposedly takes only a minute or two. Maybe you should ask for a demo of how to attach and remove these, and add this data to your decision-making process? I keep hearing how easy these are to put on and remove.....

Bob

 

[Thomas]

True mowing around trees can be a real pain even w/a rear mower,and keep an eye on the fel bucket at the sametime,but after getting use to the fel it becomes second nature.
far as mowing banks..that depends how steep the banks are,for w/the extra weight also in 4WD you may get better traction on the front end...just keep your bucket several inches from the ground also curl upwards.

One still can get a second hand fel for B8200 but might have to wait or an after market,check w/your locate dealer..post a note on some b-boards in your area..watch for up coming auctions etc...
If you know of a good welder he could almost make you a front snowplow attachment in no time. Not knowing your location I can't help much,but I'll keep my eyes and ears open.

 

[rocky2]

Throwing in my 2 cents, the FEL while adding some length adds additional front weight and stability. Or at least here in Western PA it gives me a warmer and fuzzier feeling up and down hills.

 

[ronjhall]

Drive4Fun
Welcome to TBN.
Have you tried calling Foote Tractor in Novi, MI. Jim may be able to help you find a blade for your 8200.
They are not open on Saturdays this time of year. So you will have to wait until Monday to call.