Snow Plow For Can Am Outlander 650 – Your Complete Guide To Choosing

Sick of watching heavy snow pile up, knowing you have a back-breaking session with a shovel ahead of you? We’ve all been there. You look at your powerful Can-Am Outlander 650 sitting in the garage and think, “There has to be a better way.”

You’re absolutely right. That beast of an ATV isn’t just for trail riding; it’s your secret weapon against winter. With the right setup, you can transform it into a lean, mean, snow-clearing machine that makes quick work of even the deepest drifts.

Promise yourself this is the last winter you’ll spend fighting snow the hard way. In this complete snow plow for can am outlander 650 guide, we’re going to walk you through everything. We’ll cover choosing the perfect plow system, installing it yourself, mastering the best plowing techniques, and performing the essential maintenance to keep your rig running strong all season long.

Why Your Outlander 650 is the Perfect Snow-Clearing Machine

Before we dive into the hardware, let’s talk about why your Outlander 650 is so well-suited for this job. It’s not just any ATV; it has a unique combination of features that make it a plowing powerhouse.

The benefits of a snow plow for can am outlander 650 are numerous, but it starts with the machine itself. The 650 Rotax V-Twin engine provides more than enough low-end torque to push heavy, wet snow without bogging down. You don’t need a 1000cc monster; the 650 hits the sweet spot of power and fuel efficiency.

Here’s what makes it a winner:

Power and Torque: The 650cc engine delivers consistent power to push snow piles that would stop smaller machines in their tracks.
Selectable 4WD: Engage four-wheel drive for maximum traction when you’re pushing a heavy load, and switch back to 2WD for lighter tasks to save on fuel and wear.
Maneuverability: An ATV is far more nimble than a truck or tractor. You can easily clear tight spaces, sidewalks, and paths that larger vehicles can’t touch.
Cost-Effectiveness: You already own the ATV! A plow kit is a fraction of the cost of a dedicated snow blower or hiring a plowing service for the season.

Choosing the Right Snow Plow for Can-Am Outlander 650: A Buyer’s Guide

Walking into the world of ATV plows can feel overwhelming. You’ll see different materials, shapes, and mounting systems. Let’s break down the key components so you can make an informed choice for your specific needs.

Step 1: Pick Your Plow Blade Material and Size

The blade is the business end of your setup. The two most common materials are steel and polyethylene (poly).

Steel Blades: These are the traditional choice. They are incredibly strong and great at scraping down to the pavement. However, they are heavier, which puts more strain on your ATV’s suspension, and they can rust if the powder coating gets chipped.
Poly Blades: Modern poly blades are tough, durable, and have a natural slipperiness that helps snow roll off easily. They won’t rust and are lighter than steel, making them easier for your winch and suspension to handle. Our pro-tip: For most residential use, a high-quality poly blade is an excellent, low-maintenance choice.

For blade size, a 54-inch or 60-inch blade is the ideal match for the Outlander 650’s track width. A 60-inch blade will clear a wider path, even when angled, which means fewer passes and less time in the cold.

Step 2: Understand Mounting Systems

The mounting plate is the hardware that bolts to your ATV’s frame, allowing you to connect the plow. There are two main styles.

Mid-Mount (Chassis Mount): This system attaches to the frame underneath the middle of the ATV. It distributes the force of plowing across the strongest part of the chassis, reducing stress on the front end. This is the most durable and recommended setup for serious plowing.
Front-Mount: This system is easier to install and allows you to attach and detach the plow push tubes without crawling on the ground. It offers higher ground clearance, but it can put more stress on the front of the frame.

Step 3: Select a Lift System

You need a way to lift and lower the heavy plow blade. The best and most common solution for the Outlander 650 is an electric winch.

If your ATV doesn’t already have one, a winch with a capacity of 2500 lbs to 3500 lbs is perfect. A synthetic rope is often preferred over a steel cable for plowing, as it’s more flexible, lighter, and won’t develop sharp burrs that can tear up your gloves.

How to Install Your Snow Plow: A Step-by-Step DIY Guide

Alright, you’ve got your kit. Now for the fun part! While you should always follow the specific instructions from your plow manufacturer, here is a general overview of how to snow plow for can am outlander 650 installation.

Tools You’ll Likely Need:

A good socket and wrench set (metric and standard)
A torque wrench
Pliers
A floor jack and jack stands for safety

Install the Mounting Plate: This is the most involved step. You’ll typically need to remove the factory skid plate to access the frame. Securely bolt the manufacturer-provided mounting plate to the designated points on your Outlander’s frame. Use a torque wrench to tighten all bolts to the specified values. This is not a step to rush! A loose mount is a dangerous mount.
Assemble the Push Tubes: The push tubes are the long arms that connect the plow blade to the mounting plate. Assemble them according to the instructions. This is usually straightforward bolt-together work.
Attach the Blade: Connect the plow blade to the front of the push tube assembly. This is also where you’ll install the trip springs, which allow the blade to tilt forward if you hit a hidden obstacle, protecting you and your equipment. Adjust the “skid shoes” (the metal feet on the bottom of the blade) so the blade sits about a half-inch off the ground. This prevents it from digging into your driveway.
Connect to the ATV: With the push tube and blade assembled, connect it to the mounting plate on your ATV. Most modern systems use a simple pin-and-clip system for quick attachment.
Hook Up the Winch: Route your winch rope through a fairlead (preferably a smooth roller fairlead to reduce rope wear) and attach it to the designated lift point on the push tube assembly. Test the winch to ensure it lifts and lowers the plow smoothly.

Mastering the Art: Snow Plow for Can-Am Outlander 650 Best Practices

Having the gear is one thing; using it effectively is another. Plowing is a skill. Follow these snow plow for can am outlander 650 tips to get the job done faster, safer, and with less strain on your machine.

Plowing Techniques 101

Start Early: It’s much easier to push 4 inches of snow twice than 8 inches of snow once. Don’t wait for the storm to end if you can help it.
Plan Your Piles: Before you start, decide where you want the snow to end up. Pushing snow to a bad spot just means you’ll have to move it again later. Consider wind direction to avoid blowing snow back onto cleared areas.
Use Low Gear and 4WD: Keep your Outlander in Low range and 4WD. This gives you maximum torque and traction, preventing you from getting stuck and reducing strain on your belt and drivetrain.
Keep Your Speed Down: Plowing is not a race. A steady, controlled speed of around 5-7 MPH is ideal. Going too fast can damage the plow, your ATV, or hidden objects under the snow.
Angle the Blade: Don’t push snow straight ahead unless you have to. Angling the blade allows snow to roll off to the side, which is far more efficient. Start in the middle of your driveway and work your way out, pushing snow to both sides.
Take Smaller Bites: Don’t try to clear the full width of the blade on every pass, especially in deep or heavy snow. Overlap your passes, clearing only half or three-quarters of the blade width at a time.

A Note on Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Plowing

Being a responsible rider extends to how we manage our property. For a more sustainable snow plow for can am outlander 650 approach, consider these tips.

Avoid over-using salt or chemical de-icers, which can harm plants and contaminate groundwater. Use them sparingly only where necessary for safety. An eco-friendly snow plow for can am outlander 650 practice is to simply rely on good, clean scraping and use sand for traction on icy spots.

Essential Maintenance: Your Snow Plow for Can-Am Outlander 650 Care Guide

Your plow system works hard in harsh conditions. A little TLC will ensure it’s ready to go every time you need it. This simple snow plow for can am outlander 650 care guide will save you headaches down the road.

Rinse After Use: Salt and de-icing chemicals are highly corrosive. Rinse your plow blade, push tubes, and the undercarriage of your ATV after each use to prevent rust.
Check the Wear Bar: The wear bar is the replaceable steel strip at the bottom of your blade. It’s designed to wear down so your blade doesn’t. Once it gets close to the blade edge (check your manual), replace it.
Inspect Hardware: Before each use, give your setup a quick once-over. Check for loose bolts on the mount, push tubes, and blade assembly.
Grease Pivot Points: The blade has several pivot points for angling and tripping. Apply a quality waterproof grease to these points periodically to keep them moving freely.
Winch Care: Inspect your winch rope for frays or damage. If you have a steel cable, check for broken strands. Keep your winch motor’s electrical connections clean and protected with dielectric grease.

Troubleshooting Common Problems with Your Snow Plow Setup

Even with the best gear, things can go wrong. Here are some solutions to common problems with snow plow for can am outlander 650 systems.

Problem: The plow won’t lift, or lifts very slowly.
Solution: This is often a sign of a weak battery. Your ATV’s charging system works hard to run the winch. Consider connecting a battery tender between uses to keep it fully charged. Also, check your winch’s electrical connections for corrosion.
Problem: The blade trips (tilts forward) too easily.
Solution: Your trip springs are too loose. Most plow systems have adjustable nuts on the trip springs. Tighten them a half-turn at a time until the blade stays firm during normal plowing but still trips on solid impacts.
Problem: The ATV is losing traction and spinning its tires.
Solution: First, ensure you are in 4WD. If you still have issues, you may need more weight over the wheels. Adding weight to your rear cargo rack can significantly improve traction. You can also consider a set of ATV tire chains for icy conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Your Can-Am Outlander 650 Snow Plow

Can the Outlander 650 really handle heavy, wet snow?

Absolutely. The key is technique. With the ATV in Low gear and 4WD, take smaller “bites” of snow (less than the full blade width) and maintain a slow, steady momentum. The Outlander’s torque is more than capable of moving very heavy snow when used correctly.

Do I absolutely need a winch to use a plow?

While manual lift systems exist, they are cumbersome and physically demanding. A winch is the industry standard for a reason. It provides effortless lifting and precise control right from your handlebars, making the job faster, safer, and much more enjoyable. We strongly recommend a winch.

Will plowing damage my ATV’s belt or transmission?

When done correctly, no. The most important rule is to always use Low gear when plowing. Using High gear puts immense strain on your CVT belt and clutch system, which can lead to premature failure. Low gear keeps the engine in its powerband and protects your drivetrain.

How do I prevent tearing up my lawn when plowing near the edge?

This is where your adjustable skid shoes are critical. For the first few snowfalls before the ground is frozen solid, set the skid shoes lower so the plow blade rides about an inch above the ground. This will leave a thin layer of snow but will protect your grass from damage.

Turning your Can-Am Outlander 650 into a winter workhorse is one of the smartest upgrades you can make. You’ll save time, save your back, and maybe even have a little fun doing it. Follow this guide, take your time with the installation, and practice safe plowing techniques.

Now get out there, gear up, and show winter who’s boss. Stay safe and happy plowing!

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Thomas Corle

Founder & Automobile expert at FatBoysOffroad

Automobile expert and off-road enthusiast, sharing in-depth knowledge of vehicles, gear, and adventures. Helping readers make smart decisions and enjoy the thrill of off-roading safely and confidently.