Grading Front or Rear Blade for BX2350?

[AndyMA]

Where in Conn are you . I'm in Wodstock and many times we get 12-18 inches. How long is your driveway. A front blade is much easier. I tend to use both a front loader mounted blade and loader bucket duting heavy snow as I tend to have to pile it and carry it around. Many times in both Conn and Mass I've pushed snow up into 18 to 20 foot piles with the loader. Just because we haven't had much snow the last couple of years doesn't mean we won't have a bundle next year.

Andy

 

[BizDoc]

I've used a rear blade for the past four years, and last year was it, I'd had it. Looking behind me all the time, couldn't make up my mind whether to pull the snow or go backwards and push it (going backwards was really problematic since I had no rear lights). Either way it was a pain in the neck, literally, always looking behind. So this year I decided to get a quick hitch front, 6 way, blade. yes as everyone says, it is more expensive, about $2,400, but I've had it with the rear blade. This year, let it snow, I'll be in my heated cab and pushing the snow.

 

[LBrown59]

Got the 2350 about a year ago, and as winter approaches I been debating on what type of snow removal equipment to purchase. I live in CT and do not get that much snow nor is the season long enough to warrant the cost of a snow blower attachment. I have been looking at front and rear blades. I know the front blade is functional for more than just snow.
I like the idea of a Front Blade more so than the rear blade. I have gotten a quote on a front blade that is controllable via the existing controls for about 1500 installed. I know it is more expensive than rear blade, and is more user friendly in my opinion.

If anyone owns one and can give me any input on how well they work in all aspects of operation/installation I'd appreciate it.

Thanks!!!

I've got a BX23 with a Fel
A CC 2554 with a front blade and A Bolens 850 with a front blade
to clear snow with.

 

[Ken_CT]

CBG1028,
I'm also from CT, have the BX23 with the hydraulic front blade (BX2763), and the quick hitch (BX2751). I plow a 450' processed stone drive that has a moderate incline in parts. I have loaded turfs on the rear, and in the winter I put loaded bars on the front to help with side slipping. Traction is surprisingly good. This setup does an excellent job, and I would recommend it. Get yourself a good set of insulated coveralls, good boots & gloves or mittens and maybe a ski mask, and you'll be moving snow with a smile on your face.

The attached pic is before I switched to the front bar tires.

 

[jbrumberg]

Ken CT:


I know that you are smiling behind that ski mask !- Jay

 

[cbg1028]

Thanks everyone for all the great input. I got a qoute from my local Kubota Dealer and was told installed it would run me about 1600 for the front blade that has 4 way hyd control. I can get the model below it that has only vertical control via hyd and manual angle for 900. I think it I am going to spend the money I will do it right the first time.
My driveway is only about 100 feet long, but it can take well over 3 hours when we have a foot of snow to do it by shovel. This seems to be the best idea.
For those of you who live in CT and asked, I live about 20mins north of Candlewood Lake.

Thanks again everyone. Great input!!!