Reverse 3PH Snowblowing: Creeper or Shuttle?

[Smalljobs]

I've read most of the threads on snow removal and also the general thread for creeper versus shuttle. Since I'm planning to purchase a 254LE soon, I want to make the best decision but I can't seem to find much first hand user experience on which transmission will best suit my needs for the snowblowing application. Any advice on this will be appreciated.

 

[studor]

I have a 2006 284 with creeper and can tell you that the creeper range in reverse is virtually useless for snow blowing. Further, I can also tell you that the hi range reverse is much too fast for blowing and the low range reverse is a might too slow (but the only practical gear to use). I cannot comment on the shuttle but it seems logical that it would be better. I have blown a lot of snow in that gear
Regards

 

[PILOON]

I run a rear blower with a geared tranny.

Hi reverse is much too fast for any snows that need blowing.
Low is fine for the 4-10 inch falls depending on density of the snow.
Usually when snowfalls are in the 6-12 debth I find that I want to make less than full passes in order to keep RPM's up

All that being said I sure wish I had a creeper gear, especially when cutting back snow banks, while slower I could take full passes and get it done with.

Entrance ways filled by the city plow would be a snap with creeper gear.

If not a $$ extra, I'd suggest you take it.(or upgrade to hydrostatic)

 

[RickB]

The beauty of a shuttle transmission is that for every forward gear choice, there is a reverse choice. True whether we are talking about a manual shuttle, hydraulic shuttle of whatever name, or a powershift with a reverser. Snowblowing in reverse is all about speed/gearing choices; the more you have, the better the chances you will find a reverse speed that matches your conditions and comfort level.