Snow Plowing Tips With a Farm Tractor

Winterize

• Farm tractors should be properly winterized before attempting to plow snow in cold temperatures. If possible store the tractor in a heated garage or barn to allow any snow and ice buildup to melt. Check antifreeze levels in the motor to ensure that it is sufficient to withstand freezing temperatures. Use block heaters on tractors stored outside to keep the engine oil and diesel fuel from gelling; this can cause damage upon starting the tractor.

Plowing

• Farm tractors can utilize a standard plowing blade or a hydraulic bucket to remove or push snow. When plowing with a front bucket the operator should position it vertically with the tip as close to the ground as possible and push the snow. Tractors with a front or rear blade should start in the middle of the area and push the snow outwards.

Safety

• Farm tractors are larger and place the driver at a higher position than normal tractors and trucks reducing their visibility of objects at ground level. Be extra careful when plowing with a farm tractor to prevent injury to any animals, kids or objects that could move into your path. It is advised that you warn anyone who might be in the area that you will be plowing to stay clear.

Snow Placement

• Inspect the area you will plow and designate a spot to place the excess snow so that it does not inhibit your normal driving or visibility. Ideally the area should be large enough to hold snow from several snowfalls. Placing snow in a designated area will reduce the buildup in the main driving areas which often narrows the path and creates large banks which make it hard to see when exiting a driveway.

Mark Boundaries

• It is essential you mark the areas you will be plowing to prevent damage to vegetation, concrete walkways and other sensitive areas. Place highly visible stakes or poles on the outer edge of the area to serve as a guide for you to plow. Pre-made markers can be purchased from home improvement and farm stores; these are made from fiberglass and painted a reflective yellow or orange color.