This method provides various high-power-ratio
snow removal devices which clear paths narrower than the motor vehicles. We use small, light, low-priced, yet also safe, durable devices to clear the narrow swaths. High power ratios result from applying motor vehicle
horsepower to small
snow removal devices similar to those found on
lawn tractors. Such devices may comprise moldboard plows (FIGS. 3, 9, 10, 11, 15, 16),
snow throwers (FIGS. 7 and 13), or combinations of both types (FIG. 12 and 17). Quick-connect and quick-release fittings (FIGS. 3A, 3B, 6, 8, 9A, 9B, 14) position each device for temporary propulsion by a vehicle. The connectors allow quick conversion of the family car to a plowing
machine, and when plowing is done, quick re-conversion. A moldboard plow of about half the car's width (FIG. 3) is our preferred embodiment. The mini-moldboard (FIG. 10) is least expensive. Deepest snow can be handled by our tall, narrow moldboard (FIG. 15). We protect homeowners, their cars and their plows from injury when plows strike hidden objects. Protection devices comprise safety springs (60) and pivots (63, 67 and 69) of FIG. 3B, the tension-release mechanism mentioned but not detailed in FIG. 15, annor shields (396, 398) of FIG. 16 and various others mentioned or provided for in our drawings but not detailed. We prefer cars'
chassis tie-down ears (72) in FIG. 3A, as connector points for our plow or thrower arms. For cars lacking such ears, we propose add-on ears. For example, tie-down ear (126) in FIG. 6.