Tow Behind Spreaders

Angela Johnson
11 min readJun 13, 2024

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Get ready to explore the world of tow behind spreaders! This article roundup brings together some of the best options on the market, perfect for those looking to evenly distribute salt, sand, or fertilizer on their property. Dive in and discover the latest trends, top features, and exceptional value that these tow behind spreaders have to offer.

The Top 6 Best Tow Behind Spreaders

  1. Agri-Fab Powerful 85 lb Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader — The Agri-Fab 85 lb Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader offers impressive coverage and capacity, making it a top choice for large-scale spread media applications.
  2. Agri-Fab 85 lb. Tow Broadcast Spreader for 1/4 Acre Spreading — Transform your garden with the Agri-Fab 45–0530–131, an 85 lbs. Tow Broadcast Spreader featuring quick assembly, easy cable flow control, and a generous 100' spread width, perfect for sprouting your dream lawn.
  3. Agri-Fab Pull Behind 85 lbs. Spreader — Agri-Fab Tow Spreader: Efficiently tackle outdoor tasks with a 7-gallon capacity, up to 10' spread width, and rustproof construction — an all-season, multi-purpose spreader for ice-melt, fertilizer, and grass seed.
  4. Agri-Fab 45–0527 110 Lb. Broadcast Tow Behind Spreader — The Agri-Fab 110 lb. tow spreader offers reliable and convenient spreading capabilities with corrosion-resistant construction and easy-to-use features, delivering uniform coverage in a variety of applications.
  5. Agri-Fab 185 lb. Tow Spreader: Robust and Portable Spreader for Lawn Care — The Agri-Fab 45–0547 185 lb. Tow Spreader offers rust-resistant performance, easy assembly, and reliable coverage for your landscaping needs, with a few potential drawbacks related to durability and instructions.
  6. Agri-Fab 130 lb Tow-Behind Spreader for Lawn and Garden Applications — The Agri-Fab 130 lb Tow-Behind Spreader offers a professional, user-friendly, and durable solution for large-scale agricultural applications, providing precise control and easy maintenance for efficient and effective use.

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Reviews

Agri-Fab Powerful 85 lb Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader

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This Agri-Fab broadcast spreader is a handy tool for those with a tractor mower, perfect for spreading large quantities of seed, salt, or fertilizer over a substantial area. It features a 7-gallon hopper capacity and can cover up to 14,200 square feet, roughly 3/10ths of an acre, making it perfect for the garden enthusiast. The spreader sits on pneumatic tires, allowing for smooth transport on uneven terrain, while its powerful transmission ensures durability and stability on slopes.

The hopper is crafted from polypropylene, ensuring it stands up to aggressive treatments without damaging the material. This spreader also conveniently features a control accessible right from the tractor.

Agri-Fab 85 lb. Tow Broadcast Spreader for 1/4 Acre Spreading

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The Agri-Fab 45–0530–131 Tow Broadcast Spreader, with a capacity of 85 lbs. , is an all-season powerhouse for maintaining a stunning lawn. Its 10" pneumatic tires provide smooth maneuverability, while the cable flow control ensures precision in spreading granules.

With the spread width reaching up to 10 ft, you’ll cover a generous 1/4 acre or 14,000 sq. ft.

effortlessly. While some assembly is necessary, the included video instruction guide offers assistance.

Experience the joy of a lush, healthy lawn with the 45–0530–131 Tow Broadcast Spreader.

Agri-Fab Pull Behind 85 lbs. Spreader

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The Agri-Fab Tow Broadcast Spreader is a reliable and convenient tool to efficiently spread various materials like fertilizers, grass seeds, and more. With its 10 feet spread width, you can cover your outdoor spaces swiftly.

Its pneumatic tires ensure a smooth operation, and the on/off control accessible from the tractor seat makes it even more user-friendly. The poly hopper and spreader plate’s rust-proof feature enhance the spreader’s durability.

This spreader’s simple interface and assembly instructions make it a great choice for homeowners, gardeners, and contractors alike.

Agri-Fab 45–0527 110 Lb. Broadcast Tow Behind Spreader

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I recently had the chance to use the Agri-Fab 110 lb. tow spreader, and it proved to be a reliable and convenient tool for spreading fertilizer, seed, and ice melt around my property. The heavy-duty steel tubular frame and rustproof poly hopper and spreader plate not only made the spreader sturdy but also ensured its longevity and protection from harsh weather conditions.

One of the features that stood out in my experience was the easy-to-reach flow control, which allowed me to adjust the spread from the comfort of my tractor seat. This not only made it convenient but also added a level of precision to my spreading tasks. Furthermore, the spreader’s universal design made it compatible with all tractor brands, making it a versatile option for any lawn care enthusiast.

However, there were a couple of drawbacks that I encountered while using the spreader. Firstly, it lacked a clogging mechanism, which resulted in some materials getting stuck in the hopper. Secondly, the spreader’s weight, although not a major issue, made it a bit challenging to transport and store in my shed.

Overall, the Agri-Fab 110 lb. tow spreader proved to be a reliable and convenient tool for spreading various materials across my property. With its robust construction, easy-to-reach flow control, and universal design, it surpassed my expectations in terms of performance. However, its lack of clogging mechanism and its somewhat cumbersome weight were minor drawbacks that I encountered during my usage.

Agri-Fab 185 lb. Tow Spreader: Robust and Portable Spreader for Lawn Care

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I recently had the opportunity to try out the Agri-Fab 185 lb. tow spreader in my own garden. The first thing that caught my attention was the sturdy construction — the welded steel tubular frame felt quite substantial, and I appreciated the overall strength of the product. The rustproof poly hopper and spreader plate also made a great impression, as it’s always a relief to know you’re not only purchasing a functional item but one that will last through multiple seasons and weather conditions.

The 13" x 5" turf tread tires were another positive aspect of the Agri-Fab spreader. They provided the perfect balance of traction and smooth-rolling maneuverability, allowing me to cover my entire lawn effortlessly. I particularly enjoyed the at-your-reach flow control, which made it easy to adjust the spread rate from the comfort of my tractor seat.

However, I did encounter a couple issues with the Agri-Fab spreader. The first was that the assembly instructions could be better. With some parts not well-defined, it took a bit extra effort on my part to get everything in place correctly. Additionally, I noticed that the spreader started to clog occasionally, which made for some unwanted interruptions in my spreading process.

In conclusion, the Agri-Fab 185 lb. tow spreader has its fair share of pros and cons. While its solid construction, rustproof features, and ease of use make it a strong choice for those in the market for a reliable and durable spreader, potential buyers should be aware of the clogging issue and the less-than-perfect assembly instructions. Overall, I think this spreader holds its own despite its shortcomings, and with a little extra patience and care, it might serve many users well in maintaining their lawns and gardens.

Agri-Fab 130 lb Tow-Behind Spreader for Lawn and Garden Applications

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This Agri-Fab tow-behind spreader boasts a professional-style design with easy-to-use controls for precise application. Its extra-large 130lb hopper capacity saves time between fills, and its universal hitch allows attachment to any lawn tractor.

With a 25,000 sq ft coverage, this spreader is perfect for those with larger properties, making it a top pick for many. However, some users have reported durability issues and inconsistent coverage, so it’s best to thoroughly research beforehand to find out if these issues still impact the product.

Buyer’s Guide

Welcome to our Tow Behind Spreader buyer’s guide! Here, we will provide you with essential information, considerations, and general advice to help you make an informed decision when it comes to purchasing a Tow Behind Spreader. Let’s dive into the world of Tow Behind Spreaders!

Product Type & Usage

A Tow Behind Spreader is a versatile piece of equipment used for spreading salt, sand, or other materials to improve traction on driveways, streets, and other areas prone to snow and ice formation. These spreaders are designed to be towed behind various types of vehicles, such as trucks, SUVs, and commercial vehicles. They are particularly popular in areas where winter weather conditions can cause hazardous driving conditions and are essential for snow removal and clearing operations.

Capacity & Material

Capacity is an important factor to consider when selecting a Tow Behind Spreader. It refers to the amount of material the spreader can hold at one time. Generally, Tow Behind Spreaders are available in various sizes, ranging from 200 pounds to over 2000 pounds. The capacity you choose will depend on the size of the area you need to cover and the frequency of use, as well as your budget. When it comes to materials, most Tow Behind Spreaders are made from steel, which provides durability and strength.

Controlled Spread Pattern

A controlled spread pattern is crucial for effective and efficient material distribution when using a Tow Behind Spreader. Look for a model that offers adjustable spread settings to ensure the correct amount of material is deposited where it’s needed. This feature is not only essential for maximizing efficiency but also helps prevent over-spreading, which can cause unnecessary waste or create messy situations.

Ease of Use & Maintenance

Ease of use and maintenance are essential considerations when choosing a Tow Behind Spreader. Look for models with simple controls, easy-to-reach components, and minimal moving parts. This will not only make the spreader easier to use, but also make maintenance and repairs easier if required. Additionally, consider the availability of replacement parts and the level of support provided by the manufacturer.

FAQ

What is a Tow Behind Spreader?

A Tow Behind Spreader is a type of equipment that is mounted on the back of a vehicle, such as a truck or an SUV, for spreading sand, salt, or other abrasive materials on the road. This is particularly useful during winter months or in areas prone to rain, to enhance traction on slippery surfaces, improve safety, and maintain road conditions.

It consists of a hopper to hold the material, a spreading mechanism, and a chute for distributing the material over the road. The spreader is usually connected to the vehicle using a hitch, and it can be detached and reattached as needed. The height and direction of the spreader can be adjusted to enhance its functionality in different environments.

What types of materials can be spread using a Tow Behind Spreader?

Tow Behind Spreaders are designed to spread a variety of materials, each with its unique properties. Commonly used materials include sand, salt, limestone, fly ash, and lime. These materials help in increasing the traction of tires on icy or wet roads, reducing the buildup of snow and ice, and providing better grip during extreme weather conditions.

The specific type of material to be used depends on the location, climate conditions, and the desired outcome. For example, salt is usually used in regions that experience freezing temperatures, while sand is more commonly used in regions with a warmer climate and less ice formation. The selection of material should be done keeping in mind the environmental impact and the specific road conditions in which the spreader will be used.

How much material can a Tow Behind Spreader hold?

The capacity of a Tow Behind Spreader varies depending on the model and type of spreader in use. Generally, it ranges from 175 pounds (80 kg) to 775 pounds (351 kg). These capacities are usually sufficient for residential or commercial purposes and allow the spreader to operate for a longer time without needing frequent refills.

The material capacity of a spreader should be chosen based on the size of the area to be covered, the frequency of use, and the availability of the material in the given region. It’s always better to choose a spreader with a larger capacity, as it would reduce the number of trips required to reload the material, saving time and effort.

How does a Tow Behind Spreader work?

A Tow Behind Spreader operates by using a hydraulic system to control the flow of materials from the container to the chute. The hydraulic system is connected to the vehicle and is powered by the vehicle’s engine. The spreader is controlled via the vehicle’s controls, allowing the operator to adjust the height, angle, and speed of the spreader to achieve optimal material distribution. Some models also include an electronic control system for added accuracy and ease of use.

When the vehicle is driven, the spreader is activated, and materials flow through the chute and evenly distribute the material on the road. To stop the spreader, the operator can either halt the vehicle or apply the handbrake, which would automatically halt the hydraulic system and stop the flow of material. This ensures that the spreader doesn’t continue spreading material even when the vehicle is stationary.

What are the benefits of using a Tow Behind Spreader?

Tow Behind Spreaders offer significant advantages compared to traditional methods of spreading materials on the roads. First and foremost is the increased efficiency, as these spreaders can distribute the material quickly and evenly, covering more area in a shorter amount of time. This is particularly useful when dealing with adverse weather conditions, such as heavy rain or snowfall.

The ease of use is another key benefit. Unlike conventional methods, which may require multiple operators, a Tow Behind Spreader can be operated by a single person. Additionally, it can be mounted on a variety of vehicles, making it more convenient to use and store. It’s also environmentally friendly, as the use of salt or sand is often reduced, thereby reducing the potential for harming the environment.

What is the best way to maintain a Tow Behind Spreader?

Proper maintenance of a Tow Behind Spreader is crucial to ensure its longevity and efficiency. It’s recommended to read and follow the user manual provided by the manufacturer, as this will provide specific guidance on how to maintain the spreader properly. Some general tips include checking the spreader for any loose parts or corrosion, keeping it clean and free of debris, and performing regular servicing.

It’s also important to ensure that the parts of the spreader that are in contact with the material, such as the chute or the hydraulic system, are greased or lubricated regularly to prevent any rusting or wear and tear. Proper maintenance not only helps in improving the spreader’s performance but also reduces the risk of accidents while in use.

As an Amazon Affiliate™, I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you.

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