How to load a two-stage snow thrower using bed ramps

[FrankFrqnkFrank]

This is probably an easy one, but I’m old and I want to do this right. It’s a 26-inch toro, so it’s not too heavy.

when I picked it up at the store, two on us lifted it in. I can do that with help, but I want to put it in alone.

taking it out without power was easy. I stood between the ramps and backed it down, handle first, using the wheel drive engagement handle to act as a brake.

after I set it up, do I just use its own power via the wheel drive engagement to power it up the ramps auger first?

thanks!

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[kevman65]

Yes, you can do it that way. Put it in 1st, yes it's a crawl but it won't get away from you.
Walk up the ramps with it, there is a point if you tip it too far back that gas will flow out of gas cap.

 

[dcmdon]

Yup. super simple. PUt it in the slowest forward gear until you get used to it.

One control engages the wheel drive and the other engages the augur. You only nheed to engage the wheel drive.

 

[Kevin_D]

Exercise caution!
Some of the machines only drive with one wheel, and it'll try to get away from you going up the ramps. Mine has the option to drive with only one or both wheels. If yours has this option, I strongly suggest you engage both wheels.

Kevin

 

[20Gladiator22]

If using ramps make to use a ratchet strap to hold the ramps to the truck bed. Ever see someone pull a 4wheeler or motorcycle on without them and the ramps kick out? Just look it up.

 

[FrankFrqnkFrank]

If using ramps make to use a ratchet strap to hold the ramps to the truck bed. Ever see someone pull a 4wheeler or motorcycle on without them and the ramps kick out? Just look it up.

They came with chains. Use chains and ratchet straps? Thanks!

 

[20Gladiator22]

Use one or the other and keep them tight. Next thing to watch is to not let it roll forward. I did that with a 4wheeler and busted the rear window. Live and learn! Expensive lesson as my dad would say. LOL.

 

[kevman65]

Chains will be fine, but get at least two ratchet straps to tie the blower down in the bed.

One from the bulk head of the bed to the blower and one from the tailgate of the bed to blower and get them tight.

If you don't and have to slam on the brakes you risk damage to the bulkhead and rear window.

 

[FrankFrqnkFrank]

I greatly appreciate the help!!

 

[punk'n]

Just another option... my brother picked up one of those aluminum wheelchair/mobility scooter carriers that go in the rear hitch receiver to carry his snowblower. They have a drop down ramp making it pretty easy to load since you don't have to ramp it up very far.

The only issue is how wide your machine is. You may have to modify it or secure it slightly angled if the track is wide.

 

[UnforseenWeather]

Just a note, if you have a hill or drainage ditch nearby you can park the truck on to reduce the angle that will help. I did that with my snowblower and a lower truck, worked like a charm.

 

[Rusty PW]

 

[Rusty PW]

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