I had a similar experience last week (Northern NY). I hadn't been up in two weeks. Towards the bottom of the snow, it was packed and nearly ice (presumably from the ground heat). I hit some large rocks from my driveway, too. Took me 4 hours total to get the place opened up satisfactorily. The end of the driveway had a nice 2.5-3 foot pile of snow from the plow. Just used the bucket to move that stuff. Had a tree down across the driveway that needed to be removed. Lots of work. I have a rear-mounted blower on my B2601. Cheers to 2023. Looking forward to seeing more of your content!
What you just showed is exactly why I can’t go to the camp in the winter any more.....just to hard on the old man....I wait for the snow melt, then I go. Your young and you have the stamina....to go out there....when it’s wet, it’s a hard slugging.....CHEERS
I live near Leavenworth WA. We moved here 25 years ago. I had a 20 hp Cub Cadet that I used for my 2 acre lawn near Seattle. I bought an Erskine rear mounted snow blower to use here in the mountains. I used the Cub Cadet for about 15 years, and as climate change is occurring, it got to where 20hp was not enough for the heavier, wetter snow. So about 9 years ago I bought a Kubota B2650. It was great in the beginning, but it is getting warmer and warmer, and the 26 hp is not enough for this new style heavy wet snow. So I have an LX 4020 on order, I’ll get it next week. Your videos dealing with the deep, wet snow are the closest depiction of the reality of using the equipment in real life that I have seen. The dealer videos show them moving 4 to 6 inches of dry, powdery fluff with ease. I get that a few times a year, the rest is Pacific Northwest concrete snow. I have an SB 1064 rear mount snow thrower….I’ve been driving backwards for 25 years so I’m used to it. I’m just not willing to forego the bucket on the front, which works fine in the wet stuff. Thanks for the great videos, I can’t wait for the LX 4020!
I think this early dump of snow caught many of us off guard. Today I discovered my Kubota has a hydraulic leak which looks serious and yesterday my ATV which has a plow needs a new starter...I think. Now looking for a guy to plow my driveway until I can get everything fixed. All part of the joy of living in the country! LOL
You need a tractor shed near the road for the winter, so you don’t need to hike in. If your Kubota needs to be pre-heated, like my old B1700, you might have to install a diesel coolant heater.
Yep...You have convinced me and I know exactly what I will be doing tomorrow. I will be putting a deposit down on a retirement Condo in Florida, first thing in the morning!🤠
At the 10:30 mark you were using your rear blade, angling it, to pull the snow off of the road. What I suggest is that you can ALSO PUSH THE SNOW off of your drive by keeping the same angle of the blade and driving in REVERSE to PUSH the snow to your left. So you will be PULLING the snow off to your right, and PUSHING the snow off to the left. This way you are not "dead heading" and making wasted trips to. A lot more efficient and no wasted time. Just a suggestion, as this is what I do and it works well for me.
Bonjour GP 🌞 Now that is an OUTSTANDING amount of snow that I like 👌👍😇 Great snow chute target shouting on the snowed trees 🧐👍Using Your Rear Blade for removing the dirt to get traction is what help you GP too the most 👍😇Keep Up Your OUTSTANDING Work Cheers 😇🍻
I enjoyed this video! We have 40 acres in Northern Idaho. My snowblower is on the 3 point hitch so I'm backing to blow snow. And, my chute is all manual so it's climb off and adjust every time I need to blow snow in another direction. Having hydraulics on the chute would be marvelous! I do have the hard cab and heat in the cab. We have had 2 and a half feet of snow so far this winter. That keeps me busy keeping the long driveway to the county road open.
That heavy wet snow.... Slow and steady wins I guess. I think I heard Tim Allen's "Tim the Toolman Taylor" grunts when you hooked up to that tree and yanked it down the trail a ways. Looks like your Kubota is more than up for the task, just needs those chains for a little more traction. Looking forward to part 3. I see what you meant from your fist video, though - getting back into your cabin and getting the driveway cleared for access is not for the faint of heart.
Thanks for the tips. I use my cross country skis to ski into my property then I fire up the Kabota tractor with the snowblower and go. I have a hill but it’s not as steep as yours and So far I haven’t needed chains. We had 20 inches of Cold snow and the Kabota worked beautifully and luckily no downed trees in my half mile driveway. Beautiful skiing for a few days then a warm up came and melted all the snow in northern Michigan. I was lucky to find my property and I’m a tree farmer on 50 acres. I did not know what I was getting into with the half mile driveway but it’s certainly worth it because it’s very remote quiet and private. After a Ski in I get the Kabota tractor out to do my driveway and drive in. It’s an adventure in winter and quiet in the other seasons. Hope I stay young
Good morning BR! Sounds perfect. Like you, I love the quiet and isolation. When I want a little company, I hang out in neighbour Guy;'s workshop with the boys but love the sanctity of the forest. Worth the effort for me too, and me too on staying young. Have a great New Years!
Time to get a front mounted V-blade on a pickup. "SLOW"blowers are nice but a V-blade is great with higher speeds. Had the 3 pt blower, won't go back, V-blade all the way. Still looks like a lot of fun! Thanks for sharing, also can't beat those electric start chain saws. Good luck
Too bad you weren’t there when it all came down. Waking up to that would have been awe! I hope that we get a storm like that when we go up to our mountain property. Just itching to get myLX2610 out there in a big snow.
Hey Gord... yet an other underestimate of the challenges of snow. It's so pretty how can it be so hard!!! Well it is tough.... I like how you knocked the snow off the over head hanging branches to help bring snow down... although you'll miss the snow going down the back of your neck... lol...I will suggest one thing. Turn the blade around so you won't take the gravel as you pull the snow out of the way...but I know everyone's situation is different... looking forward to number 3 in your series of "Guy was right".... lol
Greetings fellow deep snow sufferer. As a mountain dweller here in the Rockies of Montana I have learned a couple of things regarding clearing my mile long driveway which drops 1000 feet or climbs continuously when going the other way, which I'll pass along to you. 1. Put chains on the tractor early in the season and leave them on, when snow surprises come you're prepared. 2.Put good spiked chains on ALL FOUR TIRES, front tires without gripping chains are almost useless and the front chains do help with steering especially in 4 wheel drive. Since you and I have the same rear tire chains, I'm interested to see if you experience the same snow packing around the chains/tires that I do when you are working the type of snow you're in at this time. Snow packs on my chains and I find myself trying to drive with snow slicks, (doesn't work worth a darn). Like you in this series I've had to hump up my mile long road in the past in deep snow, (why was it always uphill), but at 80 years old its no longer fun...it's still possible for me but its accompanied with a lot of growling and swearing. I wish you well Gord, you've got guts!!! So far I've seen no evidence of mountain lions, wolves or bears in your videos, come on down and I'll share mine with you. Makes walking the road so much more interesting...
I see the power is on in the house. Must have underground primary feeding your place? Overhead lines in trees and snow is a prescription for a long outage. Retired Lineman
GP you have a beautiful piece of property. I am amazed as how well a lot of the trees will straighten up once you knock the snow off. Thanks for the good videos. Take care and be safe.
That is a good snow . Here in northeast Georgia we be closed a month for that 😃 with all the trees down I guess that you wish you had you grapple on . Be safe GP ! Enjoy seeing the lx work . Looking forward to seeing the next one Hope you have a blessed day
My heart is with you. I love the bush in the winter, but just surviving takes almost all your time and energy. Our driveway is 2.1 km long with a couple of big hills thrown in. But there's nothing like the peace and beauty when you finally get there. John
When the snow builds up like that, and you have a smaller size tractor, you can't beat a front snowblower (and I'm pro-rear lol). To get the chains on, lie them out flat and straight, back onto them enough that you can tie them onto the wheel with rope (thread through the wheel), then slowly keep backing up until you get them all the way around about 1/3rd the way up for easy access to simply add the shackles = Good to go. There's probably videos on it, a few minutes of research and you'll save yourself a lot of heartache! Good thinking bringing the chainsaw right off the bat! As for the hard packed layer, a few more years and you'll get it down to where you'll almost never snap a shear bolt. As you've picked up on it saves you unnecessary expenses. You're aware of it and that's more than I can say for others that just scrape right down to the boulders and gravel. I know some contractors who've had the same snowblower for almost 20 years and never did anything but pure maintenance, never touched it up with paint, looks almost fresh inside the chutes = They know what they're doing. Some guys never want to learn, and switch out every 5 years.
Gord, love how authentic your videos are. I do like, and watch, This Old House, but I'm always thinking "one time Norm, make a mistake.". See you in part 3!
GP, this is FUN to watch! I would love for you to try a set of R14 hybrid tires. I couldn't BELIEVE the difference between them and R4 for snow traction. I was never able to go up my steep asphalt driveway with R4's, but never slipped even once with R14's. I have a couple of neighbors that I wouldn't even attempt their driveway until I used the R14's and they worked without a slip.
I would be in heaven living in a cabin off the grid in the country! What else could anyone want? As close to real true freedom as you can get. No offense to the USA, we used to be great and possibly still can be? But after suffering 2 brain aneurysms multiple strokes and heart arrhythmias all that seems to be in the news, neighborhoods and practically everything is drama games and cons.... Living in the country would give my soul true calm happy peace! Hat is off to you sir! If you also have a beautiful wife and a child you in my opinion have found the true beauty and meaning of life and happiness!
Need more ballast weight! I assume you have loaded tired, but the blade is not providing enough ballast. I know the chains get it done for traction but I’d still add weight if possible.
Got to love those electric chain saws, 🎉🚜🪝you will get it just keep on plowing, blowing. We got more snow but keep it cleared most time, then it get warm and makes the snow a lot heavier. Thanks 🇨🇦 🇺🇸
Gord I have always used you as inspiration. I have changed my thought process you kids from Canada are out of your mind go home and wait for warm temps. Good luck my son.
Really good to show those thinking about going off grid the importance in buying some equipment. You could almost use a second tractor with a grapple on it to help move the limbs.
Just a heads up on the frozen locks. Use the highest percentage of alcohol you can get, preferably a 100% or better. and as with the de-icer soak the key hole and post, sure it may take a second longer and some times and little jiggle. It has always worked for me. You can even use alcohol to keep airlines from freezing. Great video as always !
Gord, not to be rude, but a pair of good lightweight snowshoes like they sell at Mountain Equipment Co-op are a necessary piece of gear to keep in your truck when your tractor is a mile up the road. Yes, they work and are better with a set of poles. Great videos.
I guess NO one would want to try to go back to your cabin. Do you have a snowmobile Gord ? I think that would have been a better thing to have up there. Good thing people know where you are at, might not find you till spring.........lol !
The hill is where the loader would come in handy could just keep shoving it off to both sides... That's why I am a huge fan of the three-point snowblower business at both ends
Wow, GP, beautiful scenery, but you had your work cut out for you. Having the right equipment, as you do here and older bodies require, I still prefer the quiet piece of land that's remote. Hope you had a Merry Christmas, and have a very Happy New Year! Cheers!
Wow Gord! What an adventure this has become. I can't imagine all of the work this has been clearing your way into to the cabin, not to mention the extra time you spent with the camera placement and videoing. As a subscriber I truly enjoy all of the great content you provide and your time and dedication to your channel. Cheers.
Good morning and thanks very kindly. I am happy you enjoyed it - sorry about the audio but was too much to try to manage external audio so I just used the camera's internal microphones. Have a wonderful New Years!
I hope all is well and you got it done today. Years ago back in Nebraska we had an uncharacteristically large storm system roll though our area. The plows had a hard time getting through the 6-10 foot drifts caused by downed trees. They ended up dragging the trees out to a staging area to be dealt with later. As I watched today it seemed like it would have been nice to have an area like one of your pull offs to drags trees to so it didn't take as long cutting up trees along the way. I would also be the guy that would rent a small dozer and clear the tree line back 5-7 meters back on each side.
That why I took them tires off my kubuto, I found that tuff tires work much better in snow and soft going in the wood . GP you need a pair off alum snowshoe in your truck . It’s will come with time , probably wishing you have a 105 horsepower kubuto now . I got 920 , 950 and 988 CAT loader park by my door . Wait for the white gold to come , so far to date might have 2 cm .
Great job GP! We are south of the border in Washington and have had the heavy snow, warmups then freezes and more snow. I have been pushing heavy deep snow, wet slushy snow and ice dams across the end of the driveway left by county road plows (graders) with my Lx2610. It is a lot of work but this tractor with cab makes it much easier and enjoyable than our old open cab L2801. I look forward to Part 3. Keep plowing and blowing!
WOW ! What an adventure. Here in the US (northeast) we are bone dry... no snow. Warm temps and rain. So at your expense Gord, I am enjoying your winter escapade.
Wow gp y'all got a lot of snow down here in Macon mo we got a little snow just a skiff but boy it got cold really really cold then it warmed up to almost pull out the shorts weather looking forward to part 3 of your adventure there stay safe God bless
A few more HP and some tire chains would have been good for the snow blowing on this job. More rear axle weigh looks like a good future addition to counterbalance the blower weight.
Good afternoon GP. I bet you and Carol had a few conversations at night about your adventure’s of each day. Hahahahaha. Yup chains GP… Chains… When will you learn. Hahahahaha Just a little razzzz. Hahaha. Still bare ground.. nothing much in site… Oh well maybe I will get to play in the snow sometime this winter. LOL. As always stay safe and always be kind. Cheers
While recognizing how troublesome it can be to clear the long driveway, it sure is beautiful up there. We had similar conditions at our northern property but I haven’t tried to clear it yet. It has melted down significantly with this extended (and record-breaking) warmup, but according to my cell cams, there’s still a good chunk of snow up there. Sadly, it’s totally melted down here at home. Looking forward to Part 3! Happy New Year!
With the proper equipment adventures like that can be challenging but fun!! And you certainly have the proper equipment. I was jealous the whole video.
So glad you wore a bright red jacket (so they could find your body in the snow....) Horiffic video (good production quality, mind you...) for this Floridian.....
theres no place id rather be ont in the snow or out in the woods iv got my own off grid cabin and take my 2 wheel drive Cub Lo Boy 154 up there all winter we get a lot of snow here on top of this mountain.. and i never take my chains off not even in the summer you need chains on that rig especaly with them tires .. never ever ever do that a gain my friend you will make a lot more problems for your self ... im wondering how good is that chain saw iv been thinking about getting one thank you for bring us along im a old farmer and a very old tractor owner iv been in a lot of scrapes with them thank you again
Good morning and thanks - yes, good lesson learned for me. The chainsaw has been excellent for smaller limbs/branches ( less than 6-7"). The lithium battery still holds it's charge a very long time between uses and I get about 60 minutes of cutting time from it. Thanks again - have a wonderful holidays season!
Nice video GP - heavy wet snow can wreak havoc on the best tires looking for traction, you made some headway and you did the best thing, call it for the night and start fresh in the morning. Hope you didn't have anything in the truck that was going to freeze from the lcbo or food stuff. Waiting for part 3 and maybe part 4 on how your going to get all the vehicles back to the cabin. Cheers and stay safe as the next winter storm in on it's way.
Awesome content Gordon!!! 1. Great use of the snow blower to knock loose snow from trees that are laying over. I have a couple of hemlocks that do the same on my road. We had the same storm in Vermont and got 20+ inches. No fun. 2. I never assume that the ground is frozen until mid February. 3. Chains go on the first week in November regardless. Do you like the electric chainsaw. Looking at the 60V Dewalt. Good luck on the rest of this adventure Mister. Get a few Molson Red Labels and sit next to the stove. Best
I wish I lived somewhere that got that kind of snow so I could buy that blower. Going to start keeping an eye out for some northern property that I can retire to.
💥 You really got hit hard. I’m sure by now your all dug out but I bet it took awhile. Good thing your a young guy. Happy new year *Keep on tractoring!*
Add weight to the scraper I have a 55gal drum filled with rocks n sand it'll make the tractor squat down flatten the tires gives you wonderful traction...
Hi Gord, I feel your pain. We had a similar winter storm last year in Manitoba for the first real snow of the season. It was wet and heavy going to get it cleaned up, but you had to deal with way more. Seeing you try to run without chains made me realize just how important they are for you. I am really enjoying the videos and really grateful that you took the time to capture the video. I’m sure taking time to setup those shots cost you some meaningful daylight. Can’t wait for part 3!
You're doing a great job Gord, the equipment you have sure makes a world of difference doesn't it. It's a beautiful way to start a new year, all that time alone to think and look back and also look forward. Stay safe out there and have some fun along the way, we will keep an eye out for you. Fred.
Here is southeastern Pennsylvania we get mostly wet snow. I've always used a plow on my garden tractor [we don't get deep snow like you do.] I have a blower, but I rarely use it. The plow really does work better. I also have two tractors so I have the option of the blower on one and the plow on the other. Being rear-wheel drive, I have chains on before the first snow flies. I wonder if an old "beater" four-wheel drive truck with a V plow might be a better solution for your wet snow. P.S. When using the blower, I find it works better if you let the wet snow freeze solid, but I can see in your situation you don't have that option.
I am LOVING this Gord...I'm completely EXHAUSTED and I'm just watching it! Bummer you didn't have the chains on yet, but hey...that's life, right? Looking forward to part 3! Cheers!
Looks like a challenge. Has me thinking twice about a front mount snow blower. I'd almost prefer a 3pt one and driving backwards all winter to retain the loader and grapple.
Great video again, Gordon! Looking forward to the continuing saga. I was yelling at you at the start of the video "Where are your chains!" Guess you didn't hear me.
Great video GP. Glad we can come along for the ride. The only suggestion that I would have for you is it have a tow strap instead of chain just because it is lighter but can pull a lot. Thanks for all the videos and hope we all have a great 2023
I would have turned around and came back in the spring 😂 I would have died of a heart attack before I got halfway... The old lungs just can't cut the mustard anymore
I was out clearing up the downed branches myself around my place today now that they have stopped falling. What a week of crazy weather. That Oregon CS325 would have come in handy with some of the larger ones. My gas-powered saw is great, but I like the simplicity of the battery one. Happy New Year and on to Part 3.
You need to weld a metal round tube on the bottom of the blower. This way rocks will not go in blower. 1inch diameter should be enough for gravel driveways
Hey Gord, Happy 2023!!! Thanks for bringing us along for your various 2022 projects. Looking forward to the next year. I'm going to try spray turtle wax to control sticky snow in the blower.
Always put my chains on in winter. I got lazy one year and didn't and slid in a ditch. Since then always chain up.
👍
I let mine on all the time I have no blacktop
Pretty clever blasting the snow on the drooping trees to get them to spring back upright. 👍
It does work, I have done the same.
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at least you have a nice warm place to rest up at night.
I had a similar experience last week (Northern NY). I hadn't been up in two weeks. Towards the bottom of the snow, it was packed and nearly ice (presumably from the ground heat). I hit some large rocks from my driveway, too. Took me 4 hours total to get the place opened up satisfactorily. The end of the driveway had a nice 2.5-3 foot pile of snow from the plow. Just used the bucket to move that stuff. Had a tree down across the driveway that needed to be removed. Lots of work. I have a rear-mounted blower on my B2601.
Cheers to 2023. Looking forward to seeing more of your content!
What you just showed is exactly why I can’t go to the camp in the winter any more.....just to hard on the old man....I wait for the snow melt, then I go. Your young and you have the stamina....to go out there....when it’s wet, it’s a hard slugging.....CHEERS
:)) Happy New Years Gator!
Snow shoes would be a great addition for your long walks in the wintery woods.
I live near Leavenworth WA. We moved here 25 years ago. I had a 20 hp Cub Cadet that I used for my 2 acre lawn near Seattle. I bought an Erskine rear mounted snow blower to use here in the mountains. I used the Cub Cadet for about 15 years, and as climate change is occurring, it got to where 20hp was not enough for the heavier, wetter snow. So about 9 years ago I bought a Kubota B2650. It was great in the beginning, but it is getting warmer and warmer, and the 26 hp is not enough for this new style heavy wet snow. So I have an LX 4020 on order, I’ll get it next week.
Your videos dealing with the deep, wet snow are the closest depiction of the reality of using the equipment in real life that I have seen. The dealer videos show them moving 4 to 6 inches of dry, powdery fluff with ease. I get that a few times a year, the rest is Pacific Northwest concrete snow.
I have an SB 1064 rear mount snow thrower….I’ve been driving backwards for 25 years so I’m used to it. I’m just not willing to forego the bucket on the front, which works fine in the wet stuff.
Thanks for the great videos, I can’t wait for the LX 4020!
Good morning - the weather has indeed changed significantly over the years. Congrats on the new tractor! I hope you enjoy it - Happy New Year!
I think this early dump of snow caught many of us off guard. Today I discovered my Kubota has a hydraulic leak which looks serious and yesterday my ATV which has a plow needs a new starter...I think. Now looking for a guy to plow my driveway until I can get everything fixed. All part of the joy of living in the country! LOL
You need a tractor shed near the road for the winter, so you don’t need to hike in. If your Kubota needs to be pre-heated, like my old B1700, you might have to install a diesel coolant heater.
Yep...You have convinced me and I know exactly what I will be doing tomorrow. I will be putting a deposit down on a retirement Condo in Florida, first thing in the morning!🤠
At the 10:30 mark you were using your rear blade, angling it, to pull the snow off of the road.
What I suggest is that you can ALSO PUSH THE SNOW off of your drive by keeping the same angle of the blade and driving in REVERSE to PUSH the snow to your left.
So you will be PULLING the snow off to your right, and PUSHING the snow off to the left.
This way you are not "dead heading" and making wasted trips to.
A lot more efficient and no wasted time.
Just a suggestion, as this is what I do and it works well for me.
Bonjour GP 🌞 Now that is an OUTSTANDING amount of snow that I like 👌👍😇 Great snow chute target shouting on the snowed trees 🧐👍Using Your Rear Blade for removing the dirt to get traction is what help you GP too the most 👍😇Keep Up Your OUTSTANDING Work Cheers 😇🍻
I enjoyed this video! We have 40 acres in Northern Idaho. My snowblower is on the 3 point hitch so I'm backing to blow snow. And, my chute is all manual so it's climb off and adjust every time I need to blow snow in another direction. Having hydraulics on the chute would be marvelous! I do have the hard cab and heat in the cab. We have had 2 and a half feet of snow so far this winter. That keeps me busy keeping the long driveway to the county road open.
That heavy wet snow.... Slow and steady wins I guess. I think I heard Tim Allen's "Tim the Toolman Taylor" grunts when you hooked up to that tree and yanked it down the trail a ways. Looks like your Kubota is more than up for the task, just needs those chains for a little more traction. Looking forward to part 3. I see what you meant from your fist video, though - getting back into your cabin and getting the driveway cleared for access is not for the faint of heart.
Your driveway is a postcard perfect winter scene with all that snow on the trees... looking forward to seeing more of your adventures in 2023 !
Thanks for the tips. I use my cross country skis to ski into my property then I fire up the Kabota tractor with the snowblower and go. I have a hill but it’s not as steep as yours and So far I haven’t needed chains. We had 20 inches of Cold snow and the Kabota worked beautifully and luckily no downed trees in my half mile driveway. Beautiful skiing for a few days then a warm up came and melted all the snow in northern Michigan. I was lucky to find my property and I’m a tree farmer on 50 acres. I did not know what I was getting into with the half mile driveway but it’s certainly worth it because it’s very remote quiet and private. After a Ski in I get the Kabota tractor out to do my driveway and drive in. It’s an adventure in winter and quiet in the other seasons. Hope I stay young
Good morning BR! Sounds perfect. Like you, I love the quiet and isolation. When I want a little company, I hang out in neighbour Guy;'s workshop with the boys but love the sanctity of the forest. Worth the effort for me too, and me too on staying young. Have a great New Years!
Time to get a front mounted V-blade on a pickup. "SLOW"blowers are nice but a V-blade is great with higher speeds. Had the 3 pt blower, won't go back, V-blade all the way. Still looks like a lot of fun! Thanks for sharing, also can't beat those electric start chain saws. Good luck
Too bad you weren’t there when it all came down. Waking up to that would have been awe! I hope that we get a storm like that when we go up to our mountain property. Just itching to get myLX2610 out there in a big snow.
Hey Gord... yet an other underestimate of the challenges of snow. It's so pretty how can it be so hard!!! Well it is tough.... I like how you knocked the snow off the over head hanging branches to help bring snow down... although you'll miss the snow going down the back of your neck... lol...I will suggest one thing. Turn the blade around so you won't take the gravel as you pull the snow out of the way...but I know everyone's situation is different... looking forward to number 3 in your series of "Guy was right".... lol
Mother Nature gave you some snow to play with. We got rain and lost all our snow. 50's this week too. Crazy
Happy New Year 🥳⛄
Greetings fellow deep snow sufferer. As a mountain dweller here in the Rockies of Montana I have learned a couple of things regarding clearing my mile long driveway which drops 1000 feet or climbs continuously when going the other way, which I'll pass along to you.
1. Put chains on the tractor early in the season and leave them on, when snow surprises come you're prepared.
2.Put good spiked chains on ALL FOUR TIRES, front tires without gripping chains are almost useless and the front chains do help with steering especially in 4 wheel drive.
Since you and I have the same rear tire chains, I'm interested to see if you experience the same snow packing around the chains/tires that I do when you are working the type of snow you're in at this time. Snow packs on my chains and I find myself trying to drive with snow slicks, (doesn't work worth a darn). Like you in this series I've had to hump up my mile long road in the past in deep snow, (why was it always uphill), but at 80 years old its no longer fun...it's still possible for me but its accompanied with a lot of growling and swearing. I wish you well Gord, you've got guts!!! So far I've seen no evidence of mountain lions, wolves or bears in your videos, come on down and I'll share mine with you. Makes walking the road so much more interesting...
I see the power is on in the house. Must have underground primary feeding your place? Overhead lines in trees and snow is a prescription for a long outage. Retired Lineman
GP you have a beautiful piece of property. I am amazed as how well a lot of the trees will straighten up once you knock the snow off. Thanks for the good videos. Take care and be safe.
That is a good snow . Here in northeast Georgia we be closed a month for that 😃 with all the trees down I guess that you wish you had you grapple on . Be safe GP ! Enjoy seeing the lx work . Looking forward to seeing the next one
Hope you have a blessed day
My heart is with you. I love the bush in the winter, but just surviving takes almost all your time and energy. Our driveway is 2.1 km long with a couple of big hills thrown in. But there's nothing like the peace and beauty when you finally get there. John
When the snow builds up like that, and you have a smaller size tractor, you can't beat a front snowblower (and I'm pro-rear lol).
To get the chains on, lie them out flat and straight, back onto them enough that you can tie them onto the wheel with rope (thread through the wheel), then slowly keep backing up until you get them all the way around about 1/3rd the way up for easy access to simply add the shackles = Good to go.
There's probably videos on it, a few minutes of research and you'll save yourself a lot of heartache!
Good thinking bringing the chainsaw right off the bat! As for the hard packed layer, a few more years and you'll get it down to where you'll almost never snap a shear bolt.
As you've picked up on it saves you unnecessary expenses. You're aware of it and that's more than I can say for others that just scrape right down to the boulders and gravel.
I know some contractors who've had the same snowblower for almost 20 years and never did anything but pure maintenance, never touched it up with paint, looks almost fresh inside the chutes = They know what they're doing.
Some guys never want to learn, and switch out every 5 years.
Good morning and thanks for the great tips! Have a Happy New Years and thanks again!
Gord, love how authentic your videos are. I do like, and watch, This Old House, but I'm always thinking "one time Norm, make a mistake.". See you in part 3!
LOL! It's a classic David!
GP, this is FUN to watch!
I would love for you to try a set of R14 hybrid tires. I couldn't BELIEVE the difference between them and R4 for snow traction. I was never able to go up my steep asphalt driveway with R4's, but never slipped even once with R14's. I have a couple of neighbors that I wouldn't even attempt their driveway until I used the R14's and they worked without a slip.
I would be in heaven living in a cabin off the grid in the country! What else could anyone want? As close to real true freedom as you can get. No offense to the USA, we used to be great and possibly still can be? But after suffering 2 brain aneurysms multiple strokes and heart arrhythmias all that seems to be in the news, neighborhoods and practically everything is drama games and cons.... Living in the country would give my soul true calm happy peace! Hat is off to you sir! If you also have a beautiful wife and a child you in my opinion have found the true beauty and meaning of life and happiness!
Need more ballast weight! I assume you have loaded tired, but the blade is not providing enough ballast. I know the chains get it done for traction but I’d still add weight if possible.
Got to love those electric chain saws, 🎉🚜🪝you will get it just keep on plowing, blowing. We got more snow but keep it cleared most time, then it get warm and makes the snow a lot heavier. Thanks 🇨🇦 🇺🇸
Gord I have always used you as inspiration. I have changed my thought process you kids from Canada are out of your mind go home and wait for warm temps. Good luck my son.
Really good to show those thinking about going off grid the importance in buying some equipment. You could almost use a second tractor with a grapple on it to help move the limbs.
I grooved the tires on my tractor with a groover made a night and day difference with traction .
Just a heads up on the frozen locks. Use the highest percentage of alcohol you can get, preferably a 100% or better. and as with the de-icer soak the key hole and post, sure it may take a second longer and some times and little jiggle. It has always worked for me. You can even use alcohol to keep airlines from freezing. Great video as always !
Thanks for taking us on your adventure,
Gord, not to be rude, but a pair of good lightweight snowshoes like they sell at Mountain Equipment Co-op are a necessary piece of gear to keep in your truck when your tractor is a mile up the road. Yes, they work and are better with a set of poles. Great videos.
Morning Mike. You are never rude my friend - that is an excellent idea. One I need to look into. Thanks - have a great New Years!
I guess NO one would want to try to go back to your cabin. Do you have a snowmobile Gord ? I think that would have been a better thing to have up there. Good thing people know where you are at, might not find you till spring.........lol !
Saw all your tires spinning. Chains on the back are a must, not to mention enough rear weight. You're sure ambitious though.
Enjoyed part 2 and looking forward to the next part of the adventure...................well done!
The hill is where the loader would come in handy could just keep shoving it off to both sides... That's why I am a huge fan of the three-point snowblower business at both ends
Wow, GP, beautiful scenery, but you had your work cut out for you. Having the right equipment, as you do here and older bodies require, I still prefer the quiet piece of land that's remote. Hope you had a Merry Christmas, and have a very Happy New Year! Cheers!
Fantastic video! I feel terrible sitting on my sofa watching you with all that snow! I truly wish I could just come help you!!
Wow Gord! What an adventure this has become. I can't imagine all of the work this has been clearing your way into to the cabin, not to mention the extra time you spent with the camera placement and videoing. As a subscriber I truly enjoy all of the great content you provide and your time and dedication to your channel. Cheers.
Good morning and thanks very kindly. I am happy you enjoyed it - sorry about the audio but was too much to try to manage external audio so I just used the camera's internal microphones. Have a wonderful New Years!
As much work as this looks to most, you and I both know our inner child is having a blast.
I hope all is well and you got it done today.
Years ago back in Nebraska we had an uncharacteristically large storm system roll though our area. The plows had a hard time getting through the 6-10 foot drifts caused by downed trees. They ended up dragging the trees out to a staging area to be dealt with later. As I watched today it seemed like it would have been nice to have an area like one of your pull offs to drags trees to so it didn't take as long cutting up trees along the way.
I would also be the guy that would rent a small dozer and clear the tree line back 5-7 meters back on each side.
That why I took them tires off my kubuto, I found that tuff tires work much better in snow and soft going in the wood . GP you need a pair off alum snowshoe in your truck . It’s will come with time , probably wishing you have a 105 horsepower kubuto now . I got 920 , 950 and 988 CAT loader park by my door . Wait for the white gold to come , so far to date might have 2 cm .
Thanks for taking the time to record even with the iminate darkness encroaching.
Yup lots of snow like we got! Of course I have to blow snow going backwards. Not as much as you got tho. Happy new year Gord.
Enjoyed the video! That is a lot of snow. 😉
Great job GP! We are south of the border in Washington and have had the heavy snow, warmups then freezes and more snow. I have been pushing heavy deep snow, wet slushy snow and ice dams across the end of the driveway left by county road plows (graders) with my Lx2610. It is a lot of work but this tractor with cab makes it much easier and enjoyable than our old open cab L2801. I look forward to Part 3. Keep plowing and blowing!
Great video on cleaning road to the cabin. Looking forward to part 3. Stay Hydrated and Have a Safe Day
Cheers David!
WOW ! What an adventure. Here in the US (northeast) we are bone dry... no snow. Warm temps and rain. So at your expense Gord, I am enjoying your winter escapade.
Wow gp y'all got a lot of snow down here in Macon mo we got a little snow just a skiff but boy it got cold really really cold then it warmed up to almost pull out the shorts weather looking forward to part 3 of your adventure there stay safe God bless
Awesome video. I’m jealous we have no snow in Essa.
3 days of rain and the grass is green. My Kubota just stares at me lol.
Oh boy! A lot of fun dragging trees off to the side when they are weighed down with snow, NOT! Be careful Gord, don’t need you having a heart attack!
A few more HP and some tire chains would have been good for the snow blowing on this job.
More rear axle weigh looks like a good future addition to counterbalance the blower weight.
Good afternoon GP. I bet you and Carol had a few conversations at night about your adventure’s of each day. Hahahahaha. Yup chains GP… Chains… When will you learn. Hahahahaha Just a little razzzz. Hahaha. Still bare ground.. nothing much in site… Oh well maybe I will get to play in the snow sometime this winter. LOL. As always stay safe and always be kind. Cheers
That is one of the best videos I've seen showing what a tractor can do in the snow.
Thanks Steven!
While recognizing how troublesome it can be to clear the long driveway, it sure is beautiful up there. We had similar conditions at our northern property but I haven’t tried to clear it yet. It has melted down significantly with this extended (and record-breaking) warmup, but according to my cell cams, there’s still a good chunk of snow up there. Sadly, it’s totally melted down here at home.
Looking forward to Part 3! Happy New Year!
With the proper equipment adventures like that can be challenging but fun!! And you certainly have the proper equipment. I was jealous the whole video.
So glad you wore a bright red jacket (so they could find your body in the snow....) Horiffic video (good production quality, mind you...) for this Floridian.....
LOL! Thanks. :))
theres no place id rather be ont in the snow or out in the woods iv got my own off grid cabin and take my 2 wheel drive Cub Lo Boy 154 up there all winter we get a lot of snow here on top of this mountain.. and i never take my chains off not even in the summer you need chains on that rig especaly with them tires .. never ever ever do that a gain my friend you will make a lot more problems for your self ... im wondering how good is that chain saw iv been thinking about getting one thank you for bring us along im a old farmer and a very old tractor owner iv been in a lot of scrapes with them thank you again
Good morning and thanks - yes, good lesson learned for me. The chainsaw has been excellent for smaller limbs/branches ( less than 6-7"). The lithium battery still holds it's charge a very long time between uses and I get about 60 minutes of cutting time from it. Thanks again - have a wonderful holidays season!
Nice video GP - heavy wet snow can wreak havoc on the best tires looking for traction, you made some headway and you did the best thing, call it for the night and start fresh in the morning. Hope you didn't have anything in the truck that was going to freeze from the lcbo or food stuff. Waiting for part 3 and maybe part 4 on how your going to get all the vehicles back to the cabin. Cheers and stay safe as the next winter storm in on it's way.
Love the pine tree driveway snow brush lol
Spray your snowblower with furniture spray polish ... all parts inside & out this will keep the wet snow from clogging up the inside of your blower.
That was a struggle buddy glad your bike was still there in the morning good video enjoyed watching see you on the next one take care
Awesome content Gordon!!!
1. Great use of the snow blower to knock loose snow from trees that are laying over. I have a couple of hemlocks that do the same on my road. We had the same storm in Vermont and got 20+ inches. No fun.
2. I never assume that the ground is frozen until mid February.
3. Chains go on the first week in November regardless.
Do you like the electric chainsaw. Looking at the 60V Dewalt.
Good luck on the rest of this adventure Mister. Get a few Molson Red Labels and sit next to the stove. Best
I wish I lived somewhere that got that kind of snow so I could buy that blower. Going to start keeping an eye out for some northern property that I can retire to.
💥 You really got hit hard. I’m sure by now your all dug out but I bet it took awhile. Good thing your a young guy.
Happy new year
*Keep on tractoring!*
Add weight to the scraper I have a 55gal drum filled with rocks n sand it'll make the tractor squat down flatten the tires gives you wonderful traction...
Hi Gord, I feel your pain. We had a similar winter storm last year in Manitoba for the first real snow of the season. It was wet and heavy going to get it cleaned up, but you had to deal with way more. Seeing you try to run without chains made me realize just how important they are for you. I am really enjoying the videos and really grateful that you took the time to capture the video. I’m sure taking time to setup those shots cost you some meaningful daylight. Can’t wait for part 3!
You're doing a great job Gord, the equipment you have sure makes a world of difference doesn't it. It's a beautiful way to start a new year, all that time alone to think and look back and also look forward. Stay safe out there and have some fun along the way, we will keep an eye out for you. Fred.
Another fine installment, I'll be here for part 3.
Cheers!
Here is southeastern Pennsylvania we get mostly wet snow. I've always used a plow on my garden tractor [we don't get deep snow like you do.] I have a blower, but I rarely use it. The plow really does work better. I also have two tractors so I have the option of the blower on one and the plow on the other. Being rear-wheel drive, I have chains on before the first snow flies. I wonder if an old "beater" four-wheel drive truck with a V plow might be a better solution for your wet snow. P.S. When using the blower, I find it works better if you let the wet snow freeze solid, but I can see in your situation you don't have that option.
Great content GP....you always inspire us to just jump into those projects that sometimes seem insurmountable. Looking forward to your 2023 content.
I have turf tires on my bx and traction is rarely an issue, plus I don’t have to mess with chains. Thanks for the video
I am LOVING this Gord...I'm completely EXHAUSTED and I'm just watching it! Bummer you didn't have the chains on yet, but hey...that's life, right? Looking forward to part 3! Cheers!
Really enjoy watching you working in that snow while in my warm house. Love your videos and keep them coming.
We have a pretty good set up as this After living in the city most of our life YOU CANT BEAT IT
Looks like a challenge. Has me thinking twice about a front mount snow blower. I'd almost prefer a 3pt one and driving backwards all winter to retain the loader and grapple.
Great video again, Gordon! Looking forward to the continuing saga. I was yelling at you at the start of the video "Where are your chains!" Guess you didn't hear me.
LOL! Good morning Terry. I did - you'll see. Happy New Years!
I bet you slept well at the end of Part 2. Thanks for taking us along, I know we can be a real pain!! I am looking forward to Part 3! Cheers
LOL! I slept like a rock, Michael - :)) Cheers!
Great video GP. Glad we can come along for the ride. The only suggestion that I would have for you is it have a tow strap instead of chain just because it is lighter but can pull a lot. Thanks for all the videos and hope we all have a great 2023
I would have turned around and came back in the spring 😂 I would have died of a heart attack before I got halfway... The old lungs just can't cut the mustard anymore
I was out clearing up the downed branches myself around my place today now that they have stopped falling. What a week of crazy weather. That Oregon CS325 would have come in handy with some of the larger ones. My gas-powered saw is great, but I like the simplicity of the battery one. Happy New Year and on to Part 3.
Wow ya know when you get older it’s hard doing that hard work lol ok love your channel be careful 👍💪🏻✌️
You need to weld a metal round tube on the bottom of the blower. This way rocks will not go in blower. 1inch diameter should be enough for gravel driveways
You must own half the township with a driveway that long haha. Looks good. I'm jealous.
LOL! Cheers!
This is turning into a series 👍❄️👏🚜 Hang in there GP……..you are going to make it 😁 Rick
Gord another great video. Thanks for taking the time to film everything even when you were short of daylight.
That Kubota really earns its keep throwing that heavy snow!
Lot of Snow Brother. Not here in GA. That’s a Winter Wonderland. Enjoy.
I would have thought you’d put on the chains after moving the “little bit of brush”. LOL
Hey Gord, Happy 2023!!! Thanks for bringing us along for your various 2022 projects. Looking forward to the next year. I'm going to try spray turtle wax to control sticky snow in the blower.
Thanks Roger. Let me know how it works out if you remember. Cheers!
Good stuff GP. Looking forward to Part 3. Hope you have a big cup of coffee waiting for you after all this work/fun!
Wow u are really having fun fun and laughing. Nice video.
Wow! What a battle Gord. Still kind of fun though isn’t it. I love working outside.
good show fun to watch .john
Maybe rotate the exhaust onto the back of the Blower to warm it through