Clearing snow from your driveway or yard is hard work, and it’s so frustrating to spend hours clearing it, only to find it covered in snow again the next day. But if you have a ride-on mower or small lawn tractor, you could make life much easier for yourself with a snow blower combo. Instead of doing the hard work yourself, simply attach the blower and cut through the snow in half the time.
This guide will tell you exactly how these lawn mower snow blower combos work and give some of my recommendations for the best ones on the market right now.
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What is a Lawn Mower Snow Blower Combo?
A lawn mower snow blower combo consists of a snow blower attachment that goes on the front of a ride-on lawn mower or tractor. It means that you don’t have to use a separate snow blower and you can use the power of the mower to clear snow quickly.
They are easy to fix onto the front of the lawn mower and operate in the same way that you would mow the lawn. Usually, you have to remove the mower deck assembly and then attach the snow blower. Some larger blowers attach to hitch systems on the back of the mower or tractor. However, there are different types of snow blower attachments and it is important that you do your research before you buy one.
What to Consider When Buying a Lawn Mower Snow Blower Combo?
Make Sure it is Compatible with Your Mower
This is the most obvious thing to check. A snow blower attachment needs to fit on your mower and they are not compatible with every single mower. The manufacturer will give you information about the type of mower it will fit onto, so always double check before you buy.
Snow Clearing Clearance
Next, look at the snow clearing clearance. The size of the blower determines how much snow you can clear in one pass. If you use a small blower to clear a large space, you’ll be going up and down forever. For a regular driveway, 40-50 inches is a good width and you can clear the whole space in around 3 or 4 passes. For a medium sized driveway, 50-60 inches wide is suitable and if you have a very large driveway or outdoor area to clear, look for 60 inches wide as a minimum.
Total Power
The power of the snow blower attachment is largely determined by the power of the tractor or mower that you attach it to. It runs off the engine of the mower, so the more powerful the mower, the more snow you can move. However, it’s important to make sure that your mower or tractor is capable of producing enough power to effectively operate the snow blower. If you get one that requires more power than the machine you’re attaching it to has, you won’t get the most out of it and it may not run properly at all.
The power requirement is usually expressed in PTO HP, which stands for Power Take-Off Horsepower. Essentially, this means the horsepower that is available for pulling and operating implements that are attached to the mower or tractor. So, check the PTO HP of your machine and ensure that it is compatible with the snow blower.
The Overall Quality
The build quality of the snow blower attachment is important too. The augers have to cut through compacted snow and if the parts are poor quality, they will fail with regular use. Before buying, check the materials that are used and the overall quality and durability of the snow blower. If you invest in quality, it will last for years, even in the toughest weather conditions. But if you go for the cheap option, you’ll end up replacing it after a few winters.
Choosing 1, 2, or 3 Stage Snow Blower
There are different types of snow blowers and you should familiarize yourself with them so you can decide which is right for your purposes. Snow blowers are split into 3 categories, or stages. These classifications refer to the number of augers used to break up the snow.
A 1 stage snow blower can be a stand-alone device or an attachment. It scoops snow into a fan and disperses it. They can easily clear snow up to around 10 inches and you push them like a normal handheld lawn mower if they don’t attach to the front of a mower. They’re a good choice for small jobs like pathways but they’re not powerful enough for clearing large spaces.
A 2 stage snow blower is an attachment that must go on the front of a mower, it cannot be used on its own. These are more robust snow blowers that are designed for colder climates than a 1 stage blower. They use an auger to chop through compacted snow, and then disperse it with a high-speed impeller. If you have a lot of snow to clear (over a foot) and you are working on uneven terrain, a 2 stage snow blower attachment is ideal.
A 3 stage snow blower has 2 augers and an impeller (hence 3 stage) to clear the snow. Not only does this mean that it can cut through snow faster, but it also handles much larger quantities. If you live somewhere that regularly gets a few feet of snow, you should go for a 3 stage blower.
Consider the climate and how much snow you are likely to have to clear when choosing your snow blower attachment.
Additional Snow Blower Features
As well as the size and stage of the snow blower, you should consider the additional features. The main things to look for are
- Lifts
- Skid shoes and scraper blades
- Weight kits
- Chute rotation
Some blowers come with an electric lift to make it easier to maneuver. Having a lift that can easily be operated from the seat makes the job much faster because you don’t have to keep getting on and off to lift the snow blower.
The rotation of the chute matters too, as this determines how well the snow is redistributed. Again, models that have controls you can operate from the seat are far more convenient. Check the width of the chute too because a narrow opening is more likely to get blocked with snow.
Most blowers come with some form of skid shoes or scraper blades, which can usually be removed or adjusted to get the right height and protect fragile surfaces while clearing snow. Look at how easy it is to adjust the blades, as well as how durable they are. You can just purchase a snow plow attachment instead, which you can see our top 10 plow attachments for mowers here in this detailed guide.
There are also weight kits that help you balance the mower when the blower is attached to the front, though these are usually sold separately.
Check for all of these additional features to make sure that the blower meets your needs and you are getting good value for money.
10 Best Lawn Mower Snow Blower Combos
1. Husqvarna E-Lift Snow Thrower Attachment 50″ 2-Stage
The Husqvarna E-Lift Snow Thrower Attachment is a 2 stage, 50” blower that is capable of handling heavy snowfall on a medium to large area. It uses 2 12” serrated augers to pull snow in and chop through it before the impeller shoots it out through the chute. The chute itself is easily adjustable up to 180 degrees, so you can pitch it away from the area you are trying to clear. It also has replaceable skid shoes and an electric lift on it. The lift is simple to operate with a single button, but can be a bit fiddly in the cold weather with gloves on.
Using this attachment is quick and easy once it is set up. You’ll need tools initially to attach the mounting brackets and pulley frame brackets but once they are on, you can fit the attachment and take it off without any tools. This makes life a lot easier when the seasons change and you need your mower.
This is a Husqvarna branded product designed to fit almost all of their lawn tractors. There is a full list of the compatible models on the product page, but it is very extensive so it’s likely that it will fit if you have a Husqvarna mower.
Aside from a few issues with the lift operation, this is a solid snow blower attachment that can easily make short work of 10” or more of snow. They do recommend that you use a weight kit and some snow chains for stability and grip, but these are sold separately.
2. John Deere 44 in. Two-Stage Snow Blower Attachment for 100 Series Tractors
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This Two-Stage Snow Blower Attachment fits any 100 series John Deere Tractor with a 48” or 54” deck. It has a great adjustable chute which can be moved up to 200 degrees from the seat, so you can easily change the direction without having to get on and off the blower repeatedly. The chute is 6” wide too, so it can deal with snow without getting jammed up. The adjustable skid shoes make it simple to get the perfect height and clear snow without damaging the ground beneath.
That said, this is not the most robust of snow blowers out there. The 100 series tractors themselves are not brilliant in the winter and the engine may struggle in very low temperatures. The 44” blower attachment isn’t the biggest option on the market either. So, if you have a 100 series tractor and you get a reasonable amount of snow, this attachment will serve you well. But if you live in a very cold climate and you’re regularly clearing huge snowfalls, you may want to consider a different option.
3. NorTrac 3-Pt. 60-inch Snow Blower
The NorTrac 3-Pt. Snow Blower is designed to hitch onto the back of a tractor and be pulled behind it. It is compatible with any tractor with 25 to 40 PTO HP, so you have more flexibility than you do with others that are manufacturer-specific. The chute on this model is excellent too because it turns 340 degrees, giving you almost total control over the direction of the snow. It’s a 2 stage, 60” blower too, so you can easily clear large areas and the chute throws the snow up to 40 feet away from you.
This blower does come disassembled and it takes a few hours to put together, even if you are experienced. If you’re not particularly handy, consider buying something that is already built and easy to fit onto your tractor or mower. However, if you are willing to put some time into assembly and fitting, it’s definitely worth it because this is a great heavy-duty snow blower that is perfect for areas with regular heavy snowfall throughout the winter.
4. MTD 2 Stage 42-inch Snow Blower Attachment
The MTD 2 Stage 42-inch Snow Blower Attachment is a good residential option for clearing driveways and paths. The 2-stage assembly can cut through snow quite easily but this is on the smaller end of snow blowers. That said, the build quality is good and the skid shoes are very durable, so you shouldn’t need to replace them very often. The chute is easily adjustable from the driver’s position too, and moves up to 220 degrees.
It is compatible with a range of tractors and mowers built after 1999 including Troy-Bilt, Bolens, Yard Machines, Huskee and MTD Gold riding Mowers. It also fits any Cub Cadet Series 1000 and Series 1500 tractors built after 2009.
5. NorTrac 3-Pt. 50-inch Snow Blower
This NorTrac 3-Pt. 50-inch Snow Blower is a slightly smaller version of the heavy-duty 60-inch option. It still has all of the same excellent features like a chute that rotates 340 degrees, a 25 foot throwing distance, and adjustable skid shoes. If you don’t need a big 60-inch blower, this is a great alternative because it’s easier to store and a bit more convenient to use. It is also compatible with smaller tractors and mowers. It hitches onto the back in the same way as the larger model and it can be used with any tractor with a PTO HP of 16 to 30.
6. Husqvarna E-Lift Snow Thrower Attachment 42″
Some snow blower attachments can be very expensive and if you are looking for a more affordable option, this Husqvarna E-Lift Snow Thrower Attachment is ideal. It’s still a 2 stage blower so it cuts through the snow well, and you have the same easily adjustable chute that you find on other Husqvarna models. The build quality of the augers and impeller is up to scratch too, and the electric lift makes operation simple. This one comes in at a lower price because it’s a smaller 42” model and it’s nice and compact.
While it won’t handle mountains of snow, it’s good enough for most general purposes and it’s very easy to maneuver because of the small size and excellent control features. However, compatibility is limited to Husqvarna Tex style lawn tractors made from 2006 onwards.
7. Cub Cadet 42″ 3 Stage Snow Blower Attachment
Cub Cadet are known for high-quality snow blowers and this 3 Stage Snow Blower Attachment is one of their best offerings. The two augers are very durable and move through a big wall of snow in seconds. In fact, it should clear snow on average 25% faster than their 2 stage blower. The construction of the entire blower is very good and all of the moving parts will stand the test of time, even with very heavy use. It has a throwing distance of 40 feet too, but it is a smaller option at 42” wide.
In terms of quality and performance, this is one of the best snow blower attachments money can buy and it is perfect for clearing average sized driveways. But for commercial purposes, you may want something bigger. The main downside here is that it is only compatible with the XT1/XT2 Enduro Series lawn tractors.
8. MTD 3 Stage 42-inch Snow Blower Attachment
This MTD 3 Stage 42-inch Snow Blower Attachment is one of the easiest to use and it packs a punch. It is very simple to assemble and install, and should only take around 15-30 minutes to get it ready to go. The electric lift makes it easy to maneuver and it’s a smaller model, so it’s relatively nimble for a snow blower. The throwing distance is 20 feet, so not as long as other models on this list, but the 3 stage assembly can still move through 18 inches of snow or more with ease.
It fits a range of mowers including the Cub Cadet XT1/XT2 Enduro Series and the Troy-Bilt Super Bronco XP mower, as long as they were manufactured from 2015 onwards.
9. Cub Cadet 42-inch Snow Blower Attachment
This Cub Cadet 42-inch Snow Blower Attachment is the 2 stage alternative to their more powerful attachment. It fits on a wider range of lawn tractors too, so if you don’t have the specific Enduro Series machines that work with the 3 stage blower, it’s a good alternative. It fits on Troy-Bilt, Bolens, Huskee, and MTD mowers built after 1999 and Cub Cadet Series 1000/1500 from 2009 onwards.
In terms of features, it has everything you get from the 3 stage attachment, apart from the second auger (220 degree chute rotation, adjustable skid shoes and scraper blades). However, it’s still a powerful blower that should suit your needs if you are clearing your own driveway and pavement.
10. John Deere 47-In. Snow Blower (X300s & X570)
If you have a 2016 or later model of the John Deere X500, X300 or X570 tractors then this 47” Snow Blower is compatible. The 2 stage blower attachment is 47”, so it’s a good middle ground between the smaller models and the large ones designed for parking lots and huge driveways. The chute controls are conveniently placed so you can use them from a seated position.
The chute itself is made from a durable polyethylene material for longevity. The fan is made from ultra-high molecular weight (UHMW) polyethylene, which is rust resistant and incredibly durable. Compared with the other John Deere blower on this list, the quality is higher. However, it is only compatible with a few specific tractors.
How Do Snow Blowers Attach to Ride-On Lawn Mowers?
Usually, snow blowers attach to the front of the mower. The blower needs to be fixed to the front and then hooked up to the engine so the auger and fans have power.
You start by removing the mower deck assembly from the underside and then take off the front of the tractor. This gives you access to the frame so you can attach the clutch assembly. The clutch assembly has two tension wheels on it. After you fit the clutch assembly to the bottom, where the mower deck normally goes, it draws power from the engine and powers the tension wheels. V belts are attached to the tension wheels and they power the augers and fan on the blower.
Once the clutch assembly is in place, it’s time to fix the blower itself to the front. There is a subframe that fixes onto the front of the tractor first. The blower is then put onto this subframe and bolted into place. The upper V belt needs to be fitted first and then the blower can be moved into place. You’ll probably need somebody to help you lift it as they are very heavy. When it is bolted in place, you can fit the lower V belt and you are finished.
Most snow blower attachments are installed using these basic steps. However, every blower is different so always read the instructions thoroughly before you get started. You can find some great videos online to walk you through the process too. Here’s how to fit a blower to a Husqvarna and John Deere 100 Series tractor.
Some snow blowers, like the NorTrac ones, hitch to the back of the tractor or mower. These are easier to fit as you just need to put a ball hitch on the back of the tractor and then fit the snow blower to it.
Are Lawn Mower Snow Blower Combos Worth it?
Yes, if you get a lot of snow and you have a big driveway to clear, lawn mower snow blower combos are an excellent investment. Once you have used one, you’ll never want to go back. Instead of breaking your back pushing a manual one, you can sit down and just drive up and down the area, clearing it with ease. It also takes half the time to get rid of the snow, which makes a big difference if you’re clearing the drive every couple of days in the midst of winter. They’re also capable of handling incredibly deep snow that you can’t shift with a standard hand-operated blower.
Although they are expensive, lawn mower snow blower combos are worth it if you get a lot of snow.
Do You Need Winter Tires for Your Lawn Mower When Using it as a Snow Blower?
No, you can use the standard tires on your mower or tractor when using it as a snow blower. However, you do need extra traction when pushing a heavy machine, especially when the ground is covered in snow and ice. Most blowers recommend using snow chains to get more traction and these are usually sold separately. You can also put a weight kit on the back of the mower to balance it.
Can You Attach Snow Blowers to ATVs and UTVs?
Yes, there are snow blower attachments for ATVs and UTVs. These are likely to be a different size from the ones for mowers and tractors, so always double check that your chosen attachment is compatible with the machine you’re attaching it to.
How Long Do Lawn Mower Snow Blower Combos Last?
The lifespan of a lawn mower snow blower combo depends on a few factors including the quality of the blower, how often you use it, and how well you maintain it. A good quality one can easily last for decades, even with regular use, if you care for it well.
1 stage blowers often have rubber paddles that pull the snow into the impeller. These wear over time so they need to be replaced. 2 and 3 stage blowers do not have these paddles but the augers still need to be checked regularly. They are exposed to a lot of moisture and can easily rust together if you don’t take preventative measures. Regularly greasing the parts and using WD40 can keep them in good condition for longer. The skid plates should also be checked regularly and replaced when necessary.
If you keep up with this maintenance, your snow blower will last for decades. But if you neglect it, you will have to replace it much sooner.
What are the Disadvantages of Lawn Mower Snow Blower Combos?
There are a few key disadvantages of lawn mower snow blower combos. Firstly, they require more maintenance than a stand-alone blower. Regular greasing and replacing of parts can be time-consuming, especially if you get a lot of use out of the blower. You also have the added cost of replacement parts too.
Storage is also an issue for some people because these are large pieces of equipment. If you have a big barn, garage, or other outdoor storage area, it’s fine. But if you’re using a small shed that is already filled by your mower, you may struggle.
Finally, they can be quite dangerous. If you are not experienced with operating heavy machinery, be very careful when using a snow blower combo
Save and Find a Used Lawn Mower Snow Blower Combo!
Snow blower attachments are expensive and you may not want to spend that much. However, you can save a lot of money if you buy a used one. You can easily find one in your local area by searching online on places like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and eBay. Just make sure that you check the condition thoroughly and ask questions about how they have maintained it.
Final Thoughts
A lawn mower snow blower combo is the ultimate time-saving tool if you live in a cold climate that gets a lot of snow. You can clear a large driveway in next to no time, without all of the hard work. Although they are expensive, they last decades when they are properly maintained, so it’s a worthwhile investment. You can always save money by getting a second hand one too.
Jamie
Jamie is the founder of The Backyard Pros. When he was 15 years old he started working at a garden centre helping people buy plants, gardening products, and lawn care products. He has real estate experience and he is a home owner. Jamie loves backyard projects, refinishing furniture, and enjoys sharing his knowledge online.
