Successful snow-removal formula

Toolcat utility work machines clear sidewalks, Bobcat skid-steer loaders scoop parking lots

Attachments like the Bobcat snowblower enable Toolcat 5600 operators to load snow directly into trucks for easy removal.

Andy Osman’s formula for the most efficient combination of snow removal equipment includes the maneuverability of a Toolcat™ 5600 utility work machine and the power of a robust Bobcat® skid-steer loader. He added an enclosed cab with heat to both types of machines to create a comfortable work environment for his team of operators.

Osman, who sends out nearly three dozen power units after a snowstorm to clean miles of sidewalks and scores of parking lots around Edmonton, Alberta, switched to Bobcat equipment five years ago, much to the delight of his employees.

“We previously used dedicated snow machines,” Osman says. “The units worked okay, but were very hard on our operators. They would be worn out after 12 hours in these machines. The equipment was too rough.”

Looking for a better option, Osman tried the Toolcat 5600. He and his operators liked it so much that they now have 25 of the popular work-saving Bobcat units.

“The 5600 is ideal for snow removal in limited-access areas,” he says. “In our case, that means sidewalks. The maneuverability is great, which is important since we often have to work around pedestrians, bus shelters, light poles, signs — and at times — vehicles.”

He points out that his Toolcat machines are highly reliable, quick, and very comfortable to operate. “That’s an important upgrade from the equipment we previously used. The 5600, with its automotive-style controls, clear view of the work area and smooth ride, is really appreciated by our operators.”

The elements that enable the Toolcat 5600 to produce a smooth ride include independent suspension that absorbs terrain changes, increased wheel-to-ground contact that decreases bounce and vibration, and a long wheelbase that evenly distributes machine weight.

S300 loaders move snow

For removing snow from parking lots, Osman relies on 10 Bobcat S300 skid-steer loaders.

“We can move a tremendous amount of snow very quickly with these powerful loaders and Bobcat snow buckets,” he says. “The high back buckets are great for pushing snow and their capacity allows us to move a lot of volume.”

Although many of Osman’s operators do landscaping work for him in the summer, a number of new workers are hired each year for snow removal.

“The Bobcat equipment is so user-friendly and easy to learn that our new employees become accomplished quite fast,” he says.

Osman, who visited Bobcat manufacturing plants in Bismarck and Gwinner, N.D., with his brother Sam earlier this year, is impressed with how responsive the company is to customers.

“I can see how each new generation of Toolcat machines is better than the previous models,” he says. “Bobcat continues to improve the 5600 as owners like me have made suggestions. That’s one of the reasons I’ve always liked Bobcat products.” The new independent suspension, more available attachment options and horsepower management have all come about because of such requests.

Interested in learning more about the Toolcat 5600? Visit www.bobcat.com/mytoolcat to read more, see photos and watch videos about the new D-Series utility work machines.