# Riding Lawnmower to Snow Plow: Practical Guide

> Convert your riding mower to a snow plow with expert advice on compatibility and costs.
- Title: Riding Lawnmower to Snow Plow: Practical Guide | Shortify
- Summary: Convert your riding mower to a snow plow with expert advice on compatibility and costs.
- Keywords: riding lawnmower, snow plow, snow removal, accessory compatibility, tire chains, counterweight, snow blade, john deere, troy-bilt, mower deck, Family Handyman
- Source: Family Handyman — https://familyhandyman.com/article/riding-lawnmower-snow-plow
- Author: Bob Lacivita
- Published: 2026-11-12T16:49:39+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: riding lawnmower, snow plow, snow removal, accessory compatibility, tire chains, counterweight, snow blade, john deere, troy-bilt, mower deck
## Snow Problem in Northeast
Northeast residents face heavy snowfall averaging 20 inches yearly, making driveway clearing time-consuming and dangerous.
## Riding Mower Snow Plow Feasibility
David Bodzioch says many riding lawnmowers can use snow plow blades but may not be ready for snow-covered driveways.

> attaching a blade doesn’t necessarily make your mower ready to clean a snow-covered driveway
## Expert Recommendations
Jeffrey Cesari advises using manufacturer-approved attachments and adding rear wheel chains and counterweights for balance on small tractors.
## John Deere Compatibility
John Deere offers front blade packages for specific riding lawnmowers with 19 horsepower or better twin-cylinder engines for better driver balance.
## Cost of Conversion
A universal plow kit costs $120 to $1400 depending on mower model and features like adjustable blade height and angle.
## Pros and Cons
Year-round use of existing equipment is a benefit, but additional accessories and checking driveway compatibility are required.
## Safety Considerations
Proper traction is essential for snow and ice, but frame damage and transmission wear can occur on small mowers.
## Snow Plowing Limits
Cesari states plowing up to five inches of snow is safe, but caution is needed if the mower struggles.
## When It's Worth It
Converting a mower to a snow plow may be worth it if you have compatible equipment and space for storage.
## Expert Backgrounds
Jeffrey Cesari teaches Small Engine Technology at Bucks County Technical High School for over 30 years.
## David Bodzioch Credentials
David Bodzioch has been an ASE Master Technician for 25 years and is EETC certified.
## Key takeaway

Adding a snow plow blade to a compatible riding mower can handle light snow but requires careful checks for safety and equipment.