How does a 4x6 Gator do at snow plowing?

[MikeOConnor]

Very nice. But up here in Wisconsin we don't call that "snow" we call that "a dusting" and generally don't bother to clear it.

The Gator works fine for that kinda stuff (perfectly level ground, dusting, etc.). But it gets nowhere in "snow."

THIS is snow...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZfJKbjphfs

 

[strum456]

Even if you get it to push the snow, you will have a really hard time steering. A 4x4 gator would be better for plowing, if you are set on a gator. Its hard to replace a tractor with utvs and quads.

 

[nickel plate]

I contemplated using my Gator to plow snow, up until about the time I got the 3320. I have no doubts that it would do well plowing snow, especially with all the rear traction you can get from a 6x4. The biggest issue is weight. The 4x2 and 6x4 Gators by nature are supposed to float over the soup, not sink in it. They do this because of their wide high flotation tires, their wide(width)/short(height) build, and their low weight. I believe the 6x4's will hold over 1k lbs of weight in the bed.

Why not also consider loading all of the tires with an antifreeze or similar liquid compound just like the tractor guys do for extra traction?

 

[wsp617]

One of the issues of plowing snow compared to blowing snow is you can run out of places to push it. The best thing I've ever seen to move snow is a snow blower mounted on a skid loader with rubber tracks. Unfortunately, most people can稚 afford one?including me!

You have to look at the big picture and ask what is best for us. You could get by fine with a 4x6 Gator with a plow a majority of the time. If you live in an area that gets a few heavy snowfalls each year then maybe it痴 not for you. If they are rare, then go with the Gator and you値l be money ahead to hire someone to plow you out on those rare times you get a heavy snow.

 

[ededic]

Very nice. But up here in Wisconsin we don't call that "snow" we call that "a dusting" and generally don't bother to clear it.

The Gator works fine for that kinda stuff (perfectly level ground, dusting, etc.). But it gets nowhere in "snow."

Yes, I know that the snow I was pushing that day was a light dusting. The 4x6 Gator does a good job, steering is not a problem with the weight of the plow on the front and 300lbs of ballast in the back. I can use diff lock to keep a straight line if needed and turning radius is a lot better than my dad's Ranger 6x6.

I was born and raised in the UP, Rock, MI so I know what snow is. However, where I live now, on about the same latitude line you are and this 90miles of big lake between us get's me some pretty good dumps, lake effect and otherwise.

I have other tools for cleaning snow for the extra heavy snowfall. I rarely get them out of the barn except to show some winter love.

Blowing Snow with my JD 345 and 42" SB - YouTube

Moving Snow with John Deere 2210 with FEL - YouTube

Ed

 

[aczlan]

We ended up getting a cab and blade for our BX2660 and it works very well.

Aaron Z

 

[ededic]

Good to hear. Sounds like a nice rig. Pictures? Video?

 

[aczlan]

Good to hear. Sounds like a nice rig. Pictures? Video?

Pictures of it with the sides off of the cab: http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/customization/217105-relocating-bx2660-flasher-lights-curtis.html
Need to get some with the sides and the plow on.

Aaron Z

 

[Erin the Mountain Woman]

What about an electric Gator 6 x 4 with Plow? Is there a difference in power between gas and electric?? My driveway is about 1/10 of a mile, dirt with a little gravel left.

 

[aczlan]

I have never driven a electric gator, but if its anything like our electric golf carts, I would say it probably wont plow too well.
Look at the trailer towing capacity of the gas vs electric versions and see if they are the same.

Aaron Z