GUIDELINES FOR SNOWMOBILE TRAIL
           GROOMER OPERATOR TRAINING


A Resource Guide for Trail Grooming Managers and Equipment Operators:


Chapter 4 - Operating Grooming Equipment
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Grooming Basics

Tips for Operating Tracked Vehicles:

Keep the Vehicle on Top of the Snow:
Snow can have a top crust that is harder than the underlying base due to various melt-freeze or wind-packing conditions. It is to the operator’s advantage to try to keep the groomer on top. Try to not spin the tracks through that crust if at all possible.

If Stuck, Don’t Spin:
If the groomer gets stuck, DO NOT spin the tracks. It is important to remember that a tractor is rarely stuck in a level position, unless it has spun out while climbing a hill on a hard packed, icy trail. Raising the implement and backing the unit down the hill will often remedy this situation. If not, the groomer is stuck, so proceed with caution.

More often than not, the tractor will be tilted to the right / outside edge of the trail because it fell off the compacted trail base. The first thing to do is get the tractor level.

This is particularly true with gear drive tractors since the lubricants can run out of the differential into the axle tubes that are lower, which can leave the ring gear and pinion empty or low of grease. In such cases, spinning the tracks is the last thing that should be done since it can severely damage the tractor.

Get the tractor level to protect it. At this point, a long handled, plastic scoop shovel is the operator’s best friend, and they should start digging. The tractor will most likely be high-centered, so snow must be removed from beneath the tractor’s front blade, frame, and undercarriage.

Once the tractor is level, the vehicle should be rocked gently back and forth which can help pack the snow. It is better to unhook a drag sooner versus later – it can save a lot of time, effort, or even damage to the equipment. If that doesn’t work, a winch or come-along may be needed to free the vehicle. Otherwise the operator must shovel some more.

Use the Contour of a Hill or Winch It:
If uphill travel is too steep, try to travel at an angle around the hill that uses ground contour to your advantage. Look ahead and plan the route. If the vehicle has a front blade, tilt the blade to the uphill side to move snow to the downhill side.

This will place snow under the downhill track and build a bench to travel upon. If this is not possible, a winch may be needed to assist the groomer with climbing the hill.

Descend in Low Gear:
When descending steep grades, use a sufficiently low gear and always keep the tracks revolving to permit steering. A good rule of thumb for descending steep grades is to use the same gear as is required for climbing the hill.

Raise the Drag in Deep Snow:
In deep snow or in drifts such as can occur along fence lines or in a road ditch, raise the drag to prevent too much snow buildup. Also remove accumulated snow from the pan. If track slippage occurs, try to wriggle the unit through the excessively deep area of snow.

Steer Clear of Tree Wells:
Beware that snow next to tree wells can be soft due to thawing and lack of stability on the sidewalls. The groomer can quickly become stuck if it slips into one, so stay as far away as practical from them. It may be best to test the edge first by a “walk around.”



Next Section - Tips on Avoiding Equipment Damage

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