Yamaha Rhino UTV - Capable and Reliable Snow Plowing Machine

The Yamaha Rhino - A Capable Snow Plowing Machine

The Yamaha Rhino side-by-side utility vehicle has gained popularity as a useful tool for plowing snow. With its compact size, four-wheel drive capabilities, and availability of snow plow attachments, the Rhino is a practical choice for personal snow removal needs. Here's a look at what makes the Yamaha Rhino a great UTV option for plowing snow.

Rhino Models Well-Suited for Snow Plowing

Yamaha offers several Rhino models that can handle a plow attachment for snow removal. The base model Rhino 450 and Rhino 700 are perhaps the most popular choices. Both offer four-wheel drive, good ground clearance, and a rear hitch receiver to mount a plow. Higher-end Limited Edition models also make good plow vehicles with added comfort and convenience features.

When outfitted with a snow plow, the Rhino UTV takes on snow removal tasks with ease. The Rhino 450 utilizes a 421cc engine, while the Rhino 700 brings more power with its 686cc fuel-injected engine. Both models have sufficient horsepower and torque to operate a plow even in heavy, wet snow conditions.

Advantages of Using a Rhino for Snow Removal

There are a few key reasons why the Yamaha Rhino can make quick work of plowing snow compared to using an ATV or truck:

• Compact size allows the Rhino to maneuver in tight spaces like driveways and sidewalks where a full-size truck may have difficulty.
• Better stability than an ATV, especially with a plow attachment.
• Good ground clearance helps drive through unplowed snow, which is sometimes unavoidable.
• 4 wheel drive and locking differentials provide excellent traction in slick snowy conditions.
• Powerful engine provides sufficient power to operate plow even in heavy snow.
• Enclosed cab allows operator to stay warm and dry while plowing.

These attributes make the Yamaha Rhino a very capable machine for personal snow removal needs. Its compact UTV platform combines excellent snow plowing abilities.

Rhino Snow Plow Options

To equip a Rhino for plowing snow, you need to select a suitable snow plow attachment. Several manufacturers offer snow plows designed specifically to mount on the Yamaha Rhino.

Typically, Rhino snow plows are available in plow widths of 48 inches up to 72 inches. Common choices include:

• Steel plow blades - These rugged blades can stand up to pavement and gravel driveways.
• Poly plow blades - Polyethylene blades are lighter but less durable. Best for only plowing snow.
• Straight plows - Angle left or right but do not expand width.
• V-plows - Can plow a wider area and angle snow to one side.
• Power angle and lift - More convenient but costs more.
• Manual angle and lift - Must manually adjust plow angle and raise/lower.

When selecting a Rhino snow plow, consider the width of area needing plowing, types of surfaces, and convenience features like power lift/angle. Poly blades are good for only paved surfaces, while steel works for gravel driveways too. V-plows plow a wider swath but are more expensive. Manual plows work fine for smaller areas that need straight passes.

Operating Tips for Plowing Snow with a Rhino

Once you have a plow mounted on your Yamaha Rhino, you're ready to start clearing snow. Here are some tips for safely and effectively plowing snow with a Rhino:

• Start plowing early - Don't wait until there is a deep accumulation. Plow frequently to stay ahead of the snow.
• Go slow - Choose an appropriate speed for conditions. Too fast can cause unsafe conditions.
• Angle blade to avoid buildup - Angle plow frequently to discharge snow so it doesn't accumulate and become difficult to move.
• Lift blade over gravel/bare spots - Raise the blade when transitioning from pavement to avoid catching and damaging the plow.
• Overlap passes - Go over areas from different angles to clear snow thoroughly.
• Take breaks - Get out and visually inspect areas to ensure snow is cleared properly.
• Watch for obstacles - Be cautious of curbs, planted trees/shrubs, and other hidden obstacles.

Exercise caution and plow strategically. By regularly plowing smaller amounts, the Rhino can clear snow efficiently from driveways and walkways to keep areas safe and passable.

Maintaining Your Yamaha Rhino Snow Plow

Like any equipment, proper maintenance is key to ensuring an effective, long-lasting snow plow. Here are some tips for maintaining a Rhino-mounted snow plow:

• Inspect blades and wear bars - Replace if excessively worn. Keeping these sharp will improve plowing performance.
• Check hydraulic fluid - Maintain proper fill levels for any hydraulic rams.
• Lubricate parts - Keep pivots, shafts, and slides lubricated to prevent binding and wear.
• Check connections - Inspect plow mount, frame connections, and wiring for any looseness.
• Touch up paint - Paint any areas that are chipped to prevent rusting.
• End of season service - Thoroughly clean and service the plow before storing until next winter.

Properly maintaining a Rhino snow plow will allow it to last many winter seasons. The plow is a significant investment, so protect that investment with proper off-season storage and maintenance.

The Yamaha Rhino - A Capable and Versatile UTV

Clearing snow is just one of many tasks the Yamaha Rhino excels at. Thanks to its compact size, four-wheel drive, and category-leading reliability, the Rhino makes quick work of yard chores, property maintenance, hunting excursions, and small farm/ranch duties. It's a jack-of-all-trades UTV that every property owner should consider.

When equipped with one of the many snow plow options, the Rhino becomes an indispensible winter helper. Compact enough to provide excellent snow removal on sidewalks, driveways and parking areas, yet tough enough to plow major snowfalls. If you regularly deal with snow removal on your property, a Yamaha Rhino with plow is an excellent investment that will provide years of reliable service.

FAQs

What is the best Yamaha Rhino model for plowing snow?

The Rhino 450 and Rhino 700 models are best suited for snow plowing. They have sufficient power and traction while remaining compact in size.

What plow width is best for a Yamaha Rhino?

48-60 inch plows are recommended for Rhinos. Too wide of a plow can create stability issues. V-plows allow plowing a wider area when angled.

Is a steel or poly plow better for a Rhino?

Steel plows are more durable for gravel and dirt surfaces. Poly blades are lighter but only for paved surfaces. Choose based on the surfaces you need to plow.

How can I maximize snow plowing performance with my Rhino?

Plow early and frequently, go slow, lift plow over uneven/bare spots, overlap passes from different angles, and take breaks to inspect clearance.

How do I properly maintain my Rhino snow plow?

Inspect and replace worn parts as needed. Lubricate pivots and slides. Check all connections and fluid levels. Clean and store properly after winter.