Petrol self-propelled snowplow: how to choose the best equipment
Gasoline self-propelled snowplow: how to choose the best equipment
This article discusses the scheme of choosing such equipment for a country house as a gasoline self-propelled snowplow: design features, classification, advantages and disadvantages, scope of application, the main selection criteria. Also here are detailed technical characteristics of popular models from the most popular manufacturers of snow removal equipment on the market.
Gasoline self-propelled snowplow will become an indispensable assistant when cleaning the territory in winter
Gasoline self-propelled snowplow: features of choice
Owners of country houses with land plots are constantly faced with the problem of caring for the territory, both in summer and in winter. Private plots with complex landscape design deserve special attention. In winter, to clear these zones, you can buy a gasoline snowplow, which will become an indispensable assistant in the fight against snow drifts and ice.
A complex landscape is not a hindrance for a self—propelled snowplow
The device of a self-propelled gasoline snowplow: which is the best unit to buy
The most primitive tool for clearing snowdrifts in the yard is a shovel. However, this method of snow removal is time-consuming and requires considerable effort on the part of a person. Therefore, many people consider it rational to buy a gasoline self-propelled snowplow than to freeze for hours in the cold with a shovel in their hands.
Externally, the design of a snowplow powered by gasoline is similar to a trolley moving at the expense of wheels. It houses a gasoline engine and additional equipment.
Pay attention! On sale you can find electric models of snow plows, but they are less powerful and functional. Although they win in terms of weight and price.
Gasoline models by type of movement are divided into two categories:
- self – propelled;
- non-self-propelled.
The device of a gasoline self-propelled snowplow
Features of non-self-propelled gasoline snowplows
This category includes the largest number of models equipped with motors with an average power level. The capabilities of such an engine allow you to cope with the cleaning of freshly fallen snow cover. However, if the sediments are at least slightly compacted, a more functional and powerful device will be required to eliminate them.
Another disadvantage of non–self-propelled structures is restrictions on the height of snowdrifts. Drifts of 0.5 m or more in height can become a serious obstacle in the way of a snowplow, since non-self-propelled units are equipped with only one auger. But there are no problems with storage, since the device has compact dimensions and weighs about 40 kg.
The designs of non-self-propelled snow plows (NSOs) consist of:
- wheel drive;
- control unit;
- handles for a secure grip;
- snow removal chute;
- fuel tank;
- auger processing snow into small fractions;
- a bucket for capturing snow drifts.
One of the disadvantages of non–self-propelled snowplows is restrictions on the height of the snow cover, which dictates its own rules for the operation of the devices
Having a non-self-propelled snow removal machine at your disposal, you should adhere to certain rules so that the unit justifies the costs. It is necessary to carefully monitor the amount of precipitation. Do not wait until a large amount of snow accumulates in the yard. Its cleaning should be carried out on a regular basis and on time. This rule especially applies to owners of suburban areas who come there exclusively for the weekend.
The non-self-propelled structure is not able to cope with a week’s rainfall. In such circumstances, you should think about buying a self-propelled gasoline snowplow.
Pay attention! NSOs provide high-quality clearing of territories up to 200 m2 in size. For more extensive areas, it is recommended to take self-propelled modifications.
Features of self-propelled gasoline snowplows
Self–propelled snow plows (SSUs) move independently during operation – without human effort. The operation process is very simple: it is enough to direct the device in the right direction, after which the machine will continue on its own at a given speed. Most models of self-propelled gasoline snowplows are tracked, due to this, an increased level of coupling of the device with the surface is provided, which allows processing inclined territories.
Self-propelled gasoline snow plows are able to cope with any type and volume of snow precipitation
Existing SSU models are divided into three categories depending on the weight of the structure:
In addition to weight parameters, structures are classified based on technical and operational characteristics. For example, modifications with an average weight can throw snow at a distance of up to 15 m. While the lightest models are characterized by increased performance in small areas.
With regard to the internal structure of the NSOs , this type of snowplows differs only in a few nuances:
- the presence of several augers for processing snow;
- wheels or tracks can be responsible for moving;
- the presence of a headlight to increase the efficiency of work at dusk.
Pay attention! When choosing a snowplow, it is necessary to take into account the structural features of the machine, as well as the conditions in which it will be operated.
In self-propelled snow removal machines, several augers are used at once
How to choose a gasoline snowplow: general recommendations
The most important criterion for choosing a snowplow is the power of a gasoline engine. Other characteristics of the machine, such as functionality and price, also depend on this indicator.
The most inexpensive gasoline snowblowers are models equipped with an engine with a capacity of 3-3.5 hp. These designs are characterized by small dimensions, high maneuverability. The scope of their application extends to cleaning the paths in front of the building from freshly fallen snow, as well as the entrances to the house and the area around the garage.
For clearing territories with a significant area, modifications with an increased power reserve, for example, 9 hp or more, are suitable. Powerful aggregates are designed for processing large objects.
Such objects include:
- private country estates and farms;
- territories of public utilities;
- sports clubs;
- football fields;
- skating rinks, etc.
No great physical effort is needed to control self-propelled snowplows
The second most important selection criterion is the size of the working area. This parameter consists of two indicators: the width and the height of the capture. In the simplest models, the grip height varies between 30-35 cm, in more expensive versions it is about 70 cm. Some designs have the ability to adjust the position of the skids, thereby adjusting the height of the grip depending on the relief of the treated surface. The width of the working area is about 50-100 cm.
Useful advice! The larger the parameters of the working area, the faster the cleaning of the snow-covered area is carried out.
The amount of time depends on the volume of the fuel tank, during which the car can work efficiently without a break for additional refueling. The minimum indicator is 1.6 liters. This unit is able to work without interruption for 1.5-2 hours. If you increase the volume of the fuel tank to 6 liters, you can extend this time to 3 hours.
Choosing the best self-propelled gasoline snowplow: design features
The design features of the model can affect the efficiency of work. The motor start system has a direct impact on the comfort of operation. In some models, a manual starter is provided to start the engine. The part is presented in the form of a lever, which must be pulled several times with effort. Due to this, a gasoline engine is started.
The choice of the snowplow model is primarily influenced by the size of the area that is supposed to be processed
The disadvantage of the manual system is that the device may not start the first time. On the other hand, due to the simplicity of the handbrake, safety increases during the start-up process, which can be carried out in almost any weather conditions.
The engine is started by an electric starter with just one push of a button. The power supply of the start system is provided by an electrical network or a storage battery. Weather conditions do not affect the effectiveness of the start, but this will definitely require a connection to an outlet located in the garage or house.
The most vulnerable components of the structure are a gutter for the removal of recycled precipitation and a bucket for collecting snow masses. In the process of work, they are subjected to significant loads.
Useful advice! During the clearing of the site from ice, high snowdrifts and snow, large particles, once inside the mechanism, can spoil the plastic gutter. Therefore, experts recommend purchasing models with reinforced parts made of metal.
To date, the choice of self-propelled equipment for cleaning the house territory from snow is extremely wide, so any consumer can choose a model according to their needs
The price of gasoline snowplows with a metal gutter is much higher, but these costs are more than justified, since there is no need to buy spare parts. The metal gutter is designed for frequent use of a snowplow. On the one hand, it increases the overall weight of the structure, on the other, due to its weight, it is able to withstand strong shocks, as well as the effects of low temperatures.
Rating of the best gasoline snow plows for clearing household territories
There are many companies on the market engaged in the production of snow removal equipment. Each consumer, in addition to the universal selection criteria, sets its own requirements for a snowplow.
Most often, the interests of buyers extend to models with the following characteristics:
- budget;
- powerful;
- reliable and resistant;
- practical.
In addition, consumers pay attention to the manufacturer, because the quality of the parts themselves and their assembly depends on it.
An important criterion for choosing a snowplow is the power of a gasoline engine
The choice of a gasoline snowplow: rating of manufacturers
The most popular and proven on the market are the following manufacturers:
- Husqvarna;
- Hyundai;
- MTD;
- Daewoo;
- Stiga;
- Honda;
- Champion;
- Patriot.
Husqvarna’s products are considered one of the best in Europe. The designs are distinguished by exceptionally high build quality, as well as the reliability of the filling. The entire model range is equipped with Briggs&Stratton gasoline engines designed to operate in winter conditions at low temperatures. The motors of this series are able to work stably in any weather, they start up quickly.
Related article:
Snow removal equipment for cottages and homes: an overview of the best manufacturers. Features of snow removal equipment for cottages and houses. Overview of popular manufacturers and models, their advantages and disadvantages. Characteristics of snowplows.
Husqvarna snow plows have another significant advantage – warranty service provided in almost all service centers. The equipment of this manufacturer is considered the most reliable and the most expensive.
Hyundai has a wide selection of snow removal equipment. Thanks to such a variety, each consumer can choose a design that meets his requirements.
In the manufacturer’s assortment, you can find machines designed for:
- laying of pedestrian paths in the yard;
- snow removal in the park area or in the garden;
- clearing the entrance for the car.
The self-propelled design allows you to quickly and easily clear the paths leading to the house, even with high rainfall
Pay attention! The range includes modifications with an increased cross-country performance due to the caterpillar track, as well as the ability to adjust speeds.
Snow plows produced under the brand name MTD are functional enough to cope with work of various levels of complexity.
MTD snowplows will help with the cleaning of various precipitation:
- ice;
- nasta;
- compressed snow masses;
- high snowdrifts.
This type of equipment is optimal for regions characterized by abrupt weather changes, when the winter period may be accompanied by severe and prolonged snowstorms, as well as frequent warming.
Snowplow gasoline self-propelled car: rating of the best models of the budget segment
In the budget segment (up to 50,000 rubles), the first place is occupied by Interskol SMB-650E. The model has good technical equipment, providing a large grip height (54 cm), which allows you to easily cope with cleaning high snowdrifts. With the help of an impeller, this unit throws snow masses at a distance of up to 10 m. Given the low price, the capabilities of the SMB-650E are impressive.
The Interskol SMB-650E snowplow occupies a leading position among inexpensive gasoline devices
The snow removal chute is made of durable metal and is mechanically adjustable. The snowplow has a high efficiency due to the relief screw, which is covered with teeth.
The second position in the rating belongs to the Hyundai S 5560 model. The large width of the snow masses and the two-stage cleaning system provided this design with high efficiency, which attracted many consumers. Thanks to the large wheels, the snowplow is easy to move, eliminates high snowdrifts, so there is no need to make significant efforts during operation.
The gasoline self-propelled snowplow Patriot PRO 655 E was awarded the third place in the rating. The assembly of the structures of this American brand is carried out on the territory of China and the USA. This modification has a combined simplified start-up system using an electric starter, it is conveniently controlled. The advantage of the snowplow is high maintainability.
Comparison table:
| Design characteristics | Models | ||
| Interskol SMB-650E | Patriot PRO 655 E | Hyundai S 5560 | |
| Capture width, cm | 57 | 62 | 60 |
| Grip height, cm | 53,5 | 51 | 51 |
| Ejection range, m | 10 | 10 | 10 |
| Power, hp | 6,5 | 6 | 5,5 |
| Construction weight, kg | 73 | 80 | 75 |
Pay attention! All working parts of Hyundai S5560 (auger and impeller) are made on the basis of high-strength metal. For this reason, the Hyundai S 5560 snowplow can last for a long time without the need for repair and replacement of parts.
Rated budget models: customer reviews
In the reviews, the self-propelled gasoline snowplow SMB-650E appears as a practical and easy-to-handle model:
“I have been using the Interskol SMB-650E snowplow for a month and a half. The design is self-propelled, on wheels, so there are no problems with moving around a snow-covered yard. I usually do cleaning after work, it gets dark early in winter, so I can attribute the presence of a headlight to the significant advantages of this car. The snowplow moves smoothly. I chose it because of the ability to adjust and adjust speeds.”
Andrey Matyukha, Moscow
The Patriot PRO 655 E snowplow is very popular with consumers
Among the advantages of the design , consumers also note:
- fast startup system;
- high reliability;
- low fuel consumption.
There are also negative reviews on the forums:
“There are no special complaints about the work of SMB-650E. The price is not so high as to demand something more. However, Interskol did not modify the design a little. It is very inconvenient to pour oil into the car – the neck is bad. In addition, it is inconvenient to shift gears – the handle could be improved.”
Sergey Astakhov, Yekaterinburg
According to statistics, there have not yet been any cases of contacting the service center due to a breakdown of the Hyundai S 5560 engine, which indicates the high quality of the functional filling.
One of the reviews from the forum confirms this:
“Last year I bought myself a Hyundai S 5560 with a four-stroke engine. I must say, a powerful unit. With 5.5 hp at my disposal, I calmly clear the snow in my yard. I am very pleased with my purchase.”
Igor Chernov, St. Petersburg
The Hyundai S 5560 model is characterized by high efficiency and ease of operation
According to customer reviews, Hyundai S 5560 has the following advantages:
- acceptable cost;
- simple control system;
- high power level.
The most undeveloped place, according to buyers, is the gutter fixing zone. The part is poorly fixed, requires constant cleaning.
Rating of self-propelled gasoline snow plows of the middle price segment
Middle-class devices usually have a power in the range from 5 to 8 hp. The width of the grip is about 66 cm, and the capabilities allow you to clear territories of 15-20 acres in size.
Pay attention! The middle segment of prices covers constructions, the cost of which is within 100,000 rubles.
The scope of application of the technique extends to cleaning:
- house territory;
- parking areas for cars;
- pedestrian sidewalks.
The structures are designed for cleaning the packed snow with ice particles.
The volume of the fuel tank affects the time during which the device can work efficiently and without interruptions
Technical parameters of the petrol self-propelled snowplow Huskvarna ST 224
The first place in the rating of the middle class is occupied by the Husqvarna ST 224 model, which consumers have received the title of the most convenient snowplow with a comfortable adjustment system. The modification combines a high level of functionality, affordable cost and good power.
The unit is equipped with a two-stage cleaning system, thanks to which it effectively copes with the elimination of snow deposits. The snowplow has an auger with an enlarged design – 305 mm. It is covered with special teeth that increase the efficiency of crushing snow masses. This advantage is especially relevant when processing snowdrifts covered with infusion.
For the manufacture of all working components, the manufacturer uses high-quality steel. Durable metal significantly increases the service life of these parts, and, accordingly, of the snowplow itself. The developers also took care of ergonomics. Only one hand is required to operate the device.
Simplified engine start is possible due to the presence of an electric starter. All famous brands equip snow removal equipment with a handle heating function. This model was no exception. The wheel release function makes it possible, if necessary, to quickly and easily rotate the structure.
The design of the Husqvarna ST 224 snowplow is endowed with great functionality, which makes the model effective in clearing the site of snow
Pay attention! As an additional configuration, the model provides a special blade designed for cleaning the bell. It is located on the back of the protective casing.
Advantages of the Champion ST1074BS petrol snowplow
The Champion ST1074BS snowplow took the second place in the rating of middle-class equipment. The bucket size of the structure is 74 x 58.5 cm, which exceeds the indicators of the previous device. The chute, designed to remove snow masses, can be rotated by 200 °. This allows the recycled particles to be directed in almost any direction.
The self–propelled model ST1074BS has 8 gears: two of them are responsible for backward movement, the remaining 6 are forward. The manufacturer recommends using different speeds to perform certain tasks:
- low speeds are designed for efficient snow removal;
- medium speeds are better used for clearing loose sediments;
- high speeds are designed to move the snowplow through large snowdrifts.
The Champion ST1074BS self-propelled petrol car is distinguished by a high level of performance
The machine is characterized by high performance. The device has a Briggs&Stratton four-stroke single-cylinder engine with an additional air cooling system. Thus, the motor is completely protected from overheating, sudden shutdown and premature wear. Especially for cleaning heavy snow, a screw covered with teeth is provided in the design.
The Champion ST1074BS snowplow can be used even when it is dusk or fog outside, since the unit has a powerful headlight. To start a gasoline engine at very low temperatures, an electric starter can be used, which greatly facilitates this process.
Advantages of the MTD SMART ME 61 self-propelled snowplow
MTD SMART ME 61 is in the third place of the rating. The model has a sufficient level of efficiency to cope with the main tasks that the owner of a country house may face in winter. This modification has quite an acceptable cost and the necessary technical characteristics.
The MTD SMART ME 61 snowplow has good efficiency and works without interruptions even in severe frosts
Pay attention! To adjust the position of the chute that throws snow, a mechanical lever is used, which is located directly on the control panel. Due to this rational placement, the process of removing recycled snow masses is under the full control of the operator, who can make adjustments during operation.
As in previous models, this design has a toothed auger. Unlike smooth, it copes perfectly with crushing frozen snow with ice. Thanks to the four-stroke gasoline engine, the SMART ME 61 snowplow is simply indispensable when cleaning high snowdrifts. The motor belongs to the “winter” series of components. Therefore, even at low temperatures, the machine works without interruptions and starts well.
Characteristics of self-propelled gasoline snow plows: reviews of middle-class models
Middle-class models are considered optimal, so there are rarely negative customer reviews after their operation:
“My family and I live in a country house. It constantly fills up the yard and the entrance with snow, so last year I decided to buy a Huskvarna ST 224 snowplow. In this model, I like the fact that I can easily clear any types of precipitation. Large diameter wheels with drive, 6 gears. What else is needed for normal equipment? There is also a headlight for working in the dark. I recommend this manufacturer to everyone. Before buying, I read a lot of reviews, so I decided to buy this particular model. I haven’t regretted a day.”
Vitaly Govorun, St. Petersburg
Choosing a proven manufacturer, the buyer can be sure of the quality of the parts and assembly of the device
“I recently purchased a Champion ST1074BS snowplow. The machine holds up well on slippery and inclined surfaces, with optimal weight distribution in the design. I liked that the handles are heated. Fingers do not freeze during operation. In my opinion, the unit is too noisy, but otherwise everything is fine. I’ll see how the snowplow will show itself in the future.”
Alexey Demchenko, Moscow
“I want to share my experience of using MTD snow removal equipment. I have a SMART ME model. In general, the device is reliable, copes well with the function of clearing snow. The fog lamp is another plus. The disadvantages I would attribute to the poor quality of the components, in particular, the carburetor. The device is sensitive to the purity of the fuel. “
Sergey Golovko, Moscow
Comparison table:
| Design characteristics | Models | ||
| Husqvarna ST 224 | Champion ST1074BS | MTD SMART ME 61 | |
| Capture width, cm | 61 | 74 | 61 |
| Grip height, cm | 53 | 50 | 53 |
| Ejection range, m | 15 | 12 | 15 |
| Power, hp | 6,3 | 6 | 7 |
| Construction weight, kg | 90 | 93 | 79 |
Rating of self-propelled gasoline snowplows of premium class
Premium snow removal equipment deserves special attention. A distinctive feature of snowplows in this category is an increased engine power reserve – from 8 hp.
Pay attention! In such constructions, there are a large number of useful functions, which is why the efficiency increases significantly.
Snow plows of this class cope with elimination:
- ice crust crusts;
- snowdrifts;
- loose snow;
- ice.
A high-quality and efficient model can be purchased in any price segment of the snow removal equipment market
This type of equipment makes it possible to process fairly large territories (up to 50-60 acres). Not all manufacturers of snow removal equipment produce machines with such power.
Features of the self-propelled gasoline snowplow Huskvarna ST 330PT
The leading position in the rating of premium snow clearing equipment is occupied by the Husqvarna ST 330PT model. This Swedish brand is breaking almost all records in terms of the quality and performance of its products.
The drive movement of the structure is carried out due to strong and massive tracks. This nuance provides the car with high cross-country ability where other models can not cope. The advantages of the Husqvarna ST 330PT include an enlarged auger. The diameter of this part is 355 mm. Therefore, effective cleaning of the territory from the accumulated snow is provided.
The structure has a well-designed design that allows you to control the snowplow with one hand. In severe frosts, the operator can use the handle heating function to make his work even more comfortable. A two-stage cleaning system increases the performance of the mechanism.
The Husqvarna ST 330PT snowplow is both a powerful but easy-to-operate device
The unit is designed for clearing large and medium-sized territories. It easily copes with the processing of snow of various densities. A light start of the engine is provided by an electric starter. The auger, made of metal, grinds the packed snow covered with an ice crust.
Characteristics of the SNAPPER SNM924E self-propelled snowplow
The next in the ranking of premium designs is the SNAPPER SNM924E snowplow. In comparison with the previous position, the cost of this snowplow is almost 2 times lower. But it cannot be said that the SNAPPER SNM924E is significantly inferior to the Husqvarna ST 330PT in terms of characteristics.
Pay attention! The adjustment of the gutter designed for snow ejection is carried out using an electric drive, which is rare. The control is located on the operator panel.
The efficiency of the equipment is ensured by a durable metal impeller and a two-stage cleaning system. In large areas, this model can throw snow at a distance of up to 12 m. There are special teeth on the augers that grind dense crust and ice. The model is completely self-propelled. To ensure that the operator does not experience any inconvenience during operation, the car has 8 gears: 2 rear and 6 front. Thanks to them, the structure moves and turns smoothly.
The design of the SNAPPER SNM924E snowplow is well thought out, so that the running of the machine is very smooth
Features of the HONDA HSM1390IKZE Self-propelled snowplow
The HONDA HSM1390IKZE snowplow entered the top three premium designs of the rating. The hybrid design of this device has a high efficiency. The snowplow is able to move up to 83 tons of snow in just 1 hour of operation.
This performance is explained by the increased dimensions of the bucket, capable of capturing 92 cm in width. Thanks to this, even large areas with the help of the HONDA HSM1390IKZE will be effectively cleaned in the shortest possible time. Snow ejection at a distance of up to 18 m is carried out through a durable metal gutter. Its position is regulated by an electric drive. The operator can control this whole process from his remote control.
In order to improve the patency of the structure, the manufacturer equipped it with tracks. This element of the machine is driven by electric motors installed there specifically for this purpose.
The advantages of the HONDA HSM1390IKZE buyers include high performance, excellent build quality and a reliable four-stroke motor.
Pay attention! The equipment can work continuously for 2 hours, clearing large areas. All this became possible thanks to the large fuel capacity. The tank is able to hold 5.7 liters of gasoline.
The HONDA HSM1390IKZE crawler model is known for its high quality, powerful engine and efficient operation
Premium gasoline snowblowers: customer reviews on forums
Not everyone decides to purchase premium equipment for clearing snow, since its cost is much higher than that of lower-class models. But there are still customer reviews on the forums that have managed to evaluate all the advantages of powerful equipment:
“I have lived outside the city all my life, I have my own farm. It is quite difficult to move in winter, as the objects are scattered in different parts of the territory. There was a question to buy a mini tractor or a snowplow. My choice fell on the HONDA HSM1390IKZE, because I already have a lawn mower of this brand in my arsenal and I know firsthand about the quality of products. In two years of operation, I have revealed only one drawback – the price. Otherwise, there are no complaints about the work. With an ejection range of 18 m, even the Swedish company Huskvarna cannot be compared.”
Alexander Simachev, Moscow
“I’ve been wanting to buy a snowplow for my house for a long time. I saved up for several years, because I wanted to buy a really powerful and high-quality unit. I liked the Huskvarna ST 330PT model. It works relatively quietly, in frosts there are no problems with starting the engine. A great thing.”
Roman Savin, St. Petersburg
Comparison table:
| Design characteristics | Models | ||
| Husqvarna ST 330PT | SNAPPER SNM924E | HONDA HSM1390IKZE | |
| Capture width, cm | 76 | 61 | 92 |
| Grip height, cm | 35,5 | 51 | 58 |
| Ejection range, m | 15 | 12 | 18 |
| Power, hp | 12,2 | 6,9 | 13 |
| Construction weight, kg | 157 | 89 | 246 |
Prices of gasoline self-propelled snow plows: rating models
Finally, you should compare the prices of the rating models to get the full picture.
Prices of gasoline self-propelled snowplows:
| Manufacturer | Model | Price, rub. |
| Budget snow plows | ||
| Interskol | SMB-650E | 44220 |
| Hyundai | S5560 | 41490 |
| Patriot | PRO 655 E | 40450 |
| Snow plows of the middle class | ||
| Husqvarna | ST 224 | 98990 |
| Champion | ST1074BS | 85800 |
| MTD | SMART ME 61 | 73200 |
| Premium class snow plows | ||
| Husqvarna | ST 330PT | 229990 |
| SNAPPER | SNM924E | 139990 |
| HONDA | HSM1390IKZE | 455510 |
Taking into account the models discussed earlier, their technical characteristics, prices and consumer reviews, it can be concluded that the highest quality products belong to the companies Husqvarna, Champion, MTD and Honda.
In each category, you can choose a reliable and practical design, regardless of its cost and class. After all, the device that meets the capabilities of the wallet and the needs of the owner of the suburban area is considered optimal.
