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Snow and Ice Section For more information on snow-clearing equipment and spreaders, visit CEG's Web site at www.constructionequipmentguide.com.
Next Level of Snow Clearing: Compact Track Loaders
Single-rail, open-undercarriage style compact track loaders leave most components exposed, creating a selfcleaning undercarriage where snow naturally falls out rather than getting trapped and freezing to components.
Operators have a lot to consider when looking for a snow-worthy compact track loader. Machine ground clearance, track surface contact, weight distribution and more can have a huge impact on performance, productivity and return on investment.
By Buck Storlie ASV HOLDINGS INC.
What’s better for clearing snow, a skid steer or a compact track loader? The common perception is that a wheeled machine would fare better, and it’s often true with many track loaders. It’s why many compact track loaders are parked for the winter while their wheeled counterparts keep working. However, it’s possible to choose a compact track loader that not only excels in snow, but performs as well as or better than skid steers. Operators have a lot to consider when looking for a snow-worthy compact track loader. Machine ground clearance, track surface contact, weight distribution and more can have a huge impact on performance,
productivity and return on investment. Careful consideration of the machine’s undercarriage, the desired application, ROI possibilities and comfort could lead to a track loader that performs all year long. From Ground Up The process for choosing a track loader for snow and ice clearing works best from the ground up, starting with the tracks. A variety of options exist, including some modern designs that feature extra length and width and an extremely effective bar-style tread to achieve maximum contact with the ground. The extra ground contact allows maximum traction on snow, ice and slush, running contrary to a perception that an aggressive track pattern is necessary for trac-
tion in winter applications. Dedicated snow tracks are offered by many manufacturers and may improve performance for some track loaders, but operators will see a higher return on investment by choosing a machine with tracks meant for year-round use that don’t have to be changed
with the season. Advanced suspension systems can improve traction even more by keeping the track in contact with the ground. Look for a dual-level system that features independent torsion axles between the undercarriage and see CTL page 100
