3 Ways to Build a Snow Plow for a Lawn Tractor

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3 Ways to Build a Snow Plow for a Lawn Tractor
3 Ways to Build a Snow Plow for a Lawn Tractor
Anonim

A small ride-on mower or lawn mower can be changed into a snow plow with a few simple steps. This article explains how to do this using recycled materials, a welding machine and the appropriate protective clothing.

Steps

Method 1 of 3: Choose the right medium

Build a Garden Tractor Snowplow Step 1
Build a Garden Tractor Snowplow Step 1

Step 1. Make sure your ride-on mower can carry the weight of the snow blade

The frame must support the weight of the snow blower. Do not make this modification unless you are sure that the tractor will carry the additional weight.

If you don't feel like you can build it yourself, you can always buy the snow plow attachment from the tractor manufacturer. For John Deere tractors, for example, there is a special accessory for sale

Build a Garden Tractor Snowplow Step 2
Build a Garden Tractor Snowplow Step 2

Step 2. Overhaul the tractor before mounting the snow blower

It is advisable to review the vehicle before starting. Check the frame for rust. Rust weakens the structure, making it potentially unsuitable for carrying the weight of the blade forward while pushing snow aside.

Build a Garden Tractor Snowplow Step 3
Build a Garden Tractor Snowplow Step 3

Step 3. Consider putting snow chains on the tires

Lawn tractor tires are not made to ride in the snow. You could use chains to improve the seal.

Adding weight to the wheels can also help stabilize the bike

Build a Garden Tractor Snowplow Step 4
Build a Garden Tractor Snowplow Step 4

Step 4. Double check that the vehicle has everything needed to hold the front blade

Not all garden tractors are suitable for this use. Some cheaper models aren't heavy enough, solid enough, or don't have enough power to push snow away.

Method 2 of 3: Build the snow plow blade

Build a Garden Tractor Snowplow Step 5
Build a Garden Tractor Snowplow Step 5

Step 1. Choose the material to build the blade

You will need something from which to make your blade. You can use a metal barrel cut in half, or a 6mm steel plate to model.

Build a Garden Tractor Snowplow Step 6
Build a Garden Tractor Snowplow Step 6

Step 2. Shape the steel plate into the desired shape

If you are using a new plate, cut a piece about twice as wide as your tractor, about one and a half times the front of the truck. Using a piece of chalk, divide the height into five equal sections.

The top and bottom two sides will need to be curved to sweep the snow

Build a Garden Tractor Snowplow Step 7
Build a Garden Tractor Snowplow Step 7

Step 3. Fold the plate

You can bend it by slightly etching the metal and hammering it with the help of two pieces of wood under the slab.

Once folded, seal the fold to maintain this shape

Build a Garden Tractor Snowplow Step 8
Build a Garden Tractor Snowplow Step 8

Step 4. If you don't have a new steel plate you can try using a metal barrel

You can try cutting a keg in half or something like an old boiler. The stems are quite thin, so they will be fine for a less powerful medium. They cut snow well, but are also more likely to bend under pressure.

Remember that cutting will produce sharp edges, so be sure to keep the piece away from children

Method 3 of 3: Assemble the snow blower

Build a Garden Tractor Snowplow Step 9
Build a Garden Tractor Snowplow Step 9

Step 1. Build a mounting bracket on the tractor frame

On most lawn tractors you will need to build a bracket slightly further forward than the nose to be able to mount the blade.

  • You can use salvaged steel beams, or metal trellis. They are materials that can be adapted to your needs and usually also strong enough for our project. The bracket must be welded to the frame of the vehicle.
  • If it is a self-propelled lawnmower, try removing the part with the blades before mounting the snowthrower. You will work more comfortably and safely.
Build a Garden Tractor Snowplow Step 10
Build a Garden Tractor Snowplow Step 10

Step 2. Solder the blade to the bracket

Now you need to fix the blade to the frame with the welding machine. Add a joint to be able to tilt the blade to the side, or a hand lever to be able to move it while driving.

If you are left handed, try to place the lever on the left side

Build a Garden Tractor Snowplow Step 11
Build a Garden Tractor Snowplow Step 11

Step 3. Build a lifting mechanism

If you want to build a mechanism to lift the blade, you may need to modify the frame further. You will probably also need to create a lever that you can operate with your hand or foot.

Build a Garden Tractor Snowplow Step 12
Build a Garden Tractor Snowplow Step 12

Step 4. Choose the right chains for your tires

There are special chains for the tires of garden tractors for sale. Check the wording on the rubber.

You can find chains at your local home improvement store, or you can buy them online

Build a Garden Tractor Snowplow Step 13
Build a Garden Tractor Snowplow Step 13

Step 5. Fit the chains

Spread the chains on the ground next to the wheel. Remove any tangles and check for damage. Wrap the rubber with the chains, then move the half forward a few centimeters to fully wrap the rubber.

Close all fastening points to lock the chains in the correct position

Build a Garden Tractor Snowplow Step 14
Build a Garden Tractor Snowplow Step 14

Step 6. Add some weight to the rear of the tractor

To increase stability, you may want to put counterweights behind the tractor. You can use bricks, or you can add wheel weights.

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