best snow setup? BH on or off? chains?

[donn12]

I have a B2920 with the Kubota front hitch and front plow. I have loaded ags. Should I leave the BH on for extra weight? I like the ability to extricate the tractor if it gets stuck. I don't know if the overall effect will be more traction or loss of steering ability. Any experience? It also depends on the amount of snow I'm sure. I have chains for my turfs but not the ags. I am hoping not to need chains unless I have nothing but ice and I will probably use my ATV if that is the case. Any one with similar setups? thoughts?

 

[Ductape]

I found that with weight on the back of my tractor, I couldn't steer worth a crap when my blower was in 'float'. I've never needed chains, and my turfs do very well in snow as long as I'm on dirt or pavement. Venturing out onto the grass is where I get into trouble.

 

[DK35vince]

The weight of the backhoe made it difficult to steer when I tried to snow plow with the hoe on.

 

[easygo]

May be the backhoe is a bit too much but the box blade or something in that weight class could be a good balance. Try it and see what works for you.

 

[Egon]

Keep the Hoe on and add chains if necessary. The Hoe can help get you out some difficult situations.

The only drawback, for myself, is the stuff sticking out back that you must always be cognizant of.

 

[dillo99]

I remove the hoe and put on a back blade with the blade at an angle and facing backwards. I don't turn around much - just go in one direction with the loader and then drop the back blade and back up the driveway. Works well and is quick.

 

[WayneB]

I agree with Ductape and think the problem will be steering. Oh by the way Scott, I mounted the quick hitch this fall and I am working on finishing up the install of the front blade. So I might be able to plow going forward and blow snow going backwards. Not too bad it only took me two years to install the darn hitch.

 

[newbury]

I don't have a plow, just the FEL. I left my BH on when I cleared snow and appreciated the weight. Still could have used chains for a little more bite. They are on now.

 

[keyman1808]

Not the same machines but I left my BH on with my blower and had excellent results. Of course its a BX and not a B so that may make a difference.

 

[Carl_NH]

I'd leave the hoe on or put your rear blade on for counter balance and weight. As dillo states is what I do with my B21 TLB - no chains and rear blade - it slides a bit on dry packed snow, and ice but is controllable.

The B21 is nearly perfect balance traction and feel with the hoe on, but the back blade is an old heavy one 350lbs so works quite well, plus when turned around I clean going both directions.

So depending on your snow removal area - if you have ditches, drop offs, and other precipices to deal with maybe leave the hoe on to get you out, other wise put the rear blade on, or get a set of chains.