Blog

It should come as no surprise that your Western snowplow takes a beating every winter because that is what it is made to do. That being said, it is important that you stay on top of regular Western plow maintenance, so you don’t end up breaking down when you need the plow the most.

Maintaining Your Snowplow for the Plowing Season

There are some foolproof pre and post-winter season maintenance routines that should be followed to ensure that you don’t have to worry about unnecessary repairs. This checklist includes:

Pre-Season: 

• Thoroughly clean the plow
• Lubricate pivot points and sliding pins
• Touch up the paint if needed
• Lubricate any exposed cylinder rods
• Coat electrical connectors with dielectric grease

Post-Season:

• Flush and replace hydraulic fluid
• Check the cutting edge for excessive wear
• Replace shoes if necessary
• Inspect and tighten hoses and fittings
• Test the truck charging system and battery
• Inspect all pivots and pins
• Check and clean all electrical connections
• Check and tighten all fasteners
• Check the plow and truck light operation
• Inspect for mechanical damage

If you detect signs that you need snowplow repair, take quick action

How to Tell Whether Your Snowplow Needs Repair

If you live in the northeastern United States, you are familiar with snowy winters. It’s important for the plows to be kept in operational condition so they can drive out at a moment’s notice. It’s important to know the common problems that require snowplow repair so you can take quick action and keep your vehicle functioning smoothly. Here are a few things to look out for so you’re always ready:

• The Plow Won’t Move: You should be able to seamlessly move your plow up and down as needed. If it’s not raising or lowering as it should, or if it gets stuck in one position, it could point to a problem with the plow, the hydraulic system, or another component entirely. Review your snowplow parts and test them to identify the situation.
• Overheating: Dealing with an overheating vehicle can be difficult even in the best of circumstances. If this begins happening more frequently, it could be a sign that something is wrong with your plow. It’s important to inspect your snowplow thoroughly; you should also check the rest of your vehicle for leaks, excessive wear, or malfunctioning parts.
• Faulty Electrical System: From loose components to failing electrical connections, there are many things that can go wrong with your plow’s electrical system. If you detect an electrical issue, it could be time for snowplow repair.
• Low Fluids: Always check your fluid and lubrication levels to avoid serious problems. Low hydraulic fluid, for example, can cause your entire system to fail, while inadequate lubrication on your plow’s moving parts can cause significant wear and tear.
• Rust or Damage: Because of the nature of a snowplow’s work, it can be more susceptible to rust than other pieces of equipment. Periodically check your plow for rust, chips, dents, or other signs of damage before, during, and after the season. If you notice any issues, make repairs or touch up the paint quickly to prevent further damage.

If you need snowplow repair or parts, take quick action to address the issue!

Contact Us Today!

Ensuring that your plow is ready for the winter months is crucial to having a successful season. When things go wrong, our team at Trius Inc. has you covered. We have grown to become one of the largest municipal equipment suppliers in the Northeast, specializing in the sale and support of truck-chassis mounted equipment and other municipal road and facility maintenance equipment. Our high-quality customer service is unmatched, and we promise to always be there when you need us. Our parts and services will help to keep your machine moving through the toughest winters. Give us a call today for more information!