Yes, all I currently plan to do is blow snow.
I keep vacillating between a garden tractor and a S/CUT. Realistically, I did "ok" with an underpowered GT for almost 20 years, but then again I'm getting to the age that when I look at the next 20 years I don't want to paint myself into a corner, so I'd like to make a single purchase that will last that long without any major hassles, as well as be suitable to be run by an "old guy" (no offense to those nearing 70...).
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No offense taken,
Do not make the mistake I made and buy a garden tractor to do a row crop tractors job so to speak.
A hard cab with heat and a defroster will cost you more but it will prevent you from becoming so cold you develop pneumonia and frost bite.
Having the needed power and traction is number one.
Having rear ice chains(V bar) and loaded tires is number and having having the rear tires Loaded with liquid ballast is number two
Having a loader shares the number one spot for cleaning up snow where the snow caster cannot be used.
Having a loader also aids in resale value when the time comes as it is a huge selling point and most used scut/cuts dont sell well without them.
Having a loader on a sub compact or compact utility tractor brings more structural steel into the loader frame and bucket BUT do not expect to dig gravel out of bank or scoop out Ice packed snow as you will break everything.
The other major issue is understanding that if you move into the cut series you will have more power and can use a larger snow caster with less work and time needed to clear snow pack.
if you buy an open station tractor try to buy a rear mount Pronovost snow caster as you can purchase an chute extension to keep the snow above and away from you as the snow dust will be very thick.
The more money you spend for a better mule and a wider snow caster in your purchase the less money you will spend overall as the larger engine frame mules have stronger engines.
No is saying you have to spend money on a Cadillac but spending the right money for the needed work and your comfort is number one.
Buying the high end sub compacts is an option but remember moving up one frame size will still not get you away from a hydrostatic transmission that will rob you of usable power compared to a gear drive compact tractor.
I wish I had a gear drive CUT as I would not have to fight every time dealing with the ice dams the state DOT leaves me to remove every year because they are "GOD"
