Winter is right around the corner! If you live in an area prone to heavy snowfall, keeping your snow plow in good working condition is essential. Regular maintenance ensures your plow is ready when needed, extends its lifespan, and improves safety. Here are some key snow plow maintenance tips to prepare for the season.
1. Inspect the Plow Blade
- Check for Damage: Before each use, inspect the plow blade for cracks, dents, or excessive wear. Small cracks can become major issues if ignored, compromising performance and safety.
- Replace Worn Edges: Blades take a lot of wear over time. Replace the cutting edge if worn down, especially if it’s within an inch of the blade’s base. A sharp, well-maintained edge will provide smoother plowing and less strain on your equipment.
2. Check the Hydraulic System
- Inspect Hydraulic Hoses and Fittings: Look for leaks, cracks, or wear in the hoses and fittings. Verify they’re in good condition, as hydraulic issues can lead to poor plow performance or breakdowns.
- Test the Fluid Levels: Low or dirty hydraulic fluid can cause performance issues. Regularly check your fluid levels and replace them as needed; we recommend at least once per year. Use the fluid recommended by the manufacturer for optimal performance.
3. Tighten Bolts and Nuts
- Over time, the bolts and nuts securing the plow can loosen from the constant impact of plowing. Go over all the bolts, paying extra attention to the ones on the blade, A-frame, and hydraulic cylinders. Tighten loose ones to prevent parts from moving out of place or falling off during operation.
4. Lubricate Moving Parts
- Lubrication is crucial to keep moving parts functioning smoothly. To reduce wear and tear, apply grease or lubricant to areas like the pivot points, hinge pins, and other joints. Proper lubrication helps prevent corrosion and keeps parts moving freely.
5. Inspect the Electrical System
- Check Connections and Wiring: Verify that all electrical connections are secure, clean, and corrosion-free, and reapply dielectric grease. Loose or corroded connections can lead to failure in lights, controls, and the hydraulic system.
- Test the Lighting System: Plowing in low visibility conditions requires fully functional lights. Therefore, test all lights, including headlights, tail lights, and any additional plow lights. Replace any burnt-out bulbs and clean the lenses for maximum brightness.
6. Examine the Mounting Hardware
- Inspect the mounting hardware that attaches the plow to your vehicle to confirm it’s secure. Look for any cracks, rust, or signs of wear. Moreover, worn components should be replaced to secure a solid, safe connection between the plow and the vehicle.
7. Check Tires and Suspension on Your Vehicle
- In addition to snow plow maintenance, inspect your vehicle as well. A snow plow adds extra weight to the front of your vehicle, putting stress on the tires and suspension. Ensure the tires are in good shape with adequate tread and that the suspension handles the additional weight well. Adjust tire pressure as needed, especially before heavy-duty use.
8. Store the Plow Properly When Not in Use
- When storing your plow, keep it in a dry, covered area to prevent rust and corrosion, preferably indoors. At the very least, store your plow tarped over. Lift the blade off the ground to avoid unnecessary wear and cover any sensitive parts.
9. Perform Regular Pre-Season and Post-Season Maintenance
- A thorough inspection before and after the plowing season is critical to longevity. Take the time to clean, inspect, and address any issues before the plow sits idle or heads back into heavy use. This preventative care will keep your equipment ready and reliable.
Following these snow plow maintenance tips will guarantee your plow is ready for winter challenges. Proper maintenance boosts performance, keeps you safe, and avoids costly repairs. Our team recommends inspecting your equipment by early October, so you’re ready to go for the first snow. Winter may be unpredictable, but a well-maintained plow can prepare you for anything the season brings! Our accessories department, White’s Canyon Xtreme, is an authorized dealer of Western Products, the leading snow and ice control product manufacturer. If you have any questions regarding maintenance or need to place an order, please give us a call!
