Pickup Snow Plows

Pickup Snow Plows: Essential Guide for Buyers

When winter unleashes its full fury, the presence of a dependable snow plow becomes essential for maintaining accessibility and safety on the roads. Pickup snow plows offer a unique combination of convenience and power, transforming everyday vehicles into efficient snow-clearing machines. These plows are designed to be attached to the front of pickup trucks, making them an ideal solution for both personal driveways and commercial properties.

Choosing the right pickup snow plow involves considering various factors such as blade width, material, and control mechanisms. Steel and polyethylene are common materials used in these plows, each offering distinct advantages in durability and weight. Additionally, modern innovations have introduced features like hydraulic lifting and angling systems, which allow operators to effortlessly move snow with precision.

The market is replete with options tailored to different needs, whether it's for light residential use or heavy-duty commercial applications. Manufacturers like Western, Boss, Fisher, and SnowDogg have established reputations for quality products that withstand harsh conditions while delivering consistent performance. It's crucial for buyers to assess their specific requirements before investing in a pickup snow plow—considering not just the initial cost but also maintenance expenses over time.

Benefits of Using Pickup Snow Plows

Owning a pickup snow plow equips individuals with the power to clear snow at their convenience. This flexibility is invaluable during unexpected or severe weather conditions when waiting for municipal snow removal services isn't an option. For those living in rural areas or places where snowfall is heavy, this means ensuring that driveways and access roads are passable, reducing the risk of being stranded.

Pickup snow plows also offer significant time savings compared to manual shoveling. With a robust setup attached to a vehicle, one can clear the same area multiple times faster than by hand. It's not only about speed but also about reducing physical strain. The health risks associated with heavy lifting and cold temperatures can be mitigated when one opts for mechanized clearing methods.

For businesses that rely on clear parking lots and access ways, having a dedicated plow can mean continued operation during snowy periods. This capability ensures customers have safe access to facilities while maintaining regular business hours. Beyond commercial benefits, communities often find pickup snow plows helpful as they contribute to local safety by keeping roadways clear.

Economically speaking, investing in a personal snow plow attachment could lead to cost savings over time. While there's an upfront cost for purchase and installation, it may reduce the need for hiring external services season after season. Below is a breakdown of potential costs saved per year based on average prices for professional snow removal services:

Lastly, having control over when and how snow is removed allows users to minimize environmental impact by choosing eco-friendly practices and materials that may not be used by commercial services.

By incorporating these benefits into daily winter routines, pickup truck owners turn their vehicles into multipurpose tools capable of tackling some of winter’s toughest challenges.

Types of Pickup Snow Plows

When winter strikes with full force, the presence of a reliable snow plow can make all the difference. Pickup trucks are commonly equipped with various types of snow plows, designed to tackle different levels of snowfall and types of areas needing clearing. Understanding the options available helps truck owners select the right plow for their specific needs.

Straight blade snow plows are perhaps the most common type found on pickup trucks. They offer simplicity and effectiveness for residential and light commercial use. The straight design allows operators to push snow forward or angle it to either side, providing versatility in clearing driveways and parking lots.

V-plows have a distinctive shape that allows them to slice through deep or heavy snow more efficiently than straight blades. They're particularly useful for quickly breaking through drifts or packed snow. With independently moving halves, these plows provide additional flexibility, making it possible to adapt quickly to different snow conditions during operation.

• Straight Blade Plows:
• V-Plows:

Winged blade plows feature extendable wings on either side of the main blade which increase their width and capacity. This type is excellent for those who need to clear large expanses in as few passes as possible. Winged blades can move large amounts of snow faster by containing it between the wings rather than spilling over the sides.

Lastly, box plows attach to a pickup's rear hitch rather than its front mount system, allowing drivers to drag snow away from buildings or tight spaces where traditional pushing isn't practical. These are less about moving fast and more about precise control in confined areas.

Here's an overview:

Each type has its own strengths suited for different situations—straight blades are great starters while V-plows handle tougher challenges with ease. Winged blades cover wide areas swiftly whereas box plows offer meticulous maneuverability around obstacles like parked cars or landscaping features.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Pickup Snow Plow

Selecting the right pickup snow plow requires careful consideration of various elements that will impact its performance and suitability for your specific needs. Here's what you should keep in mind:

Compatibility with Your Vehicle

• Ensure the plow is compatible with your pickup truck's make, model, and year.
• Verify weight distribution and balance as an oversized plow can damage your vehicle.

Plow Material

• Steel blades offer durability but are heavier; impacting fuel efficiency.
• Polyethylene blades are lighter and prevent snow from sticking but may not be as tough as steel.
• Stainless steel combines corrosion resistance with strength yet tends to be more expensive.

Type of Plowing Surface

• For rough terrain or gravel, a plow with adjustable height or skid shoes is beneficial.
• On paved surfaces, a full-trip or bottom-trip blade minimizes potential damage by giving way upon hitting obstacles.

Blade Size and Shape

Straight blades are cost-effective for general use while V-shaped models excel at breaking through heavy snowdrifts.

Ease of Use

• User-friendly mounting systems allow quick attachment/detachment.
• Hydraulic systems enable easier angle adjustments from inside the cab compared to manual adjustments.

Remember that investing in the right snow plow enhances efficiency while reducing wear on both the equipment and your truck.

Top Brands of Pickup Snow Plows

Selecting the right brand for a pickup snow plow is crucial for those who face heavy snowfall each year. They need equipment that's reliable, durable, and efficient. Among the top contenders in this market are Western, Boss, Fisher, SnowEx, and Meyer. Each has carved out a reputation for quality and performance.

Western Products stands out with its array of heavy-duty plows designed for various pickup models. Known for their rugged construction and advanced technology like the UltraMount mounting system, they make attaching and detaching the plow simple. Their lineup includes options like the PRO PLUS® and MIDWEIGHT™ models which cater to different snow removal needs.

Boss Snowplow offers innovative features such as SmartHitch2 attachment systems and SmartTouch2 controls which enhance user convenience. Their plows like the Standard-Duty Series are engineered to tackle challenging conditions without compromising on ease of use or functionality.

• Fisher Engineering is another name synonymous with top-tier snow clearing tools.

SnowEx doesn't just offer traditional snowplows; they also have an extensive line of tailgate spreaders ideal for de-icing operations post-plowing. Their products feature Automatixx attachment systems facilitating quick setup times.

Meyer Products rounds out this list with a history dating back over 90 years in snow plow manufacturing. The company’s Lot Pro™ series highlights their focus on providing high-performing solutions suited not only for pickups but also commercial contractor applications.

Each brand brings something unique to the table whether it be cutting-edge technology or time-tested durability—key factors when battling Mother Nature's winter fury. Hence, when considering a pickup snow plow purchase it’s essential to weigh these brands' offerings against individual needs such as budget constraints, frequency of use, and compatibility with one's vehicle type.

Maintenance and Care Tips for Pickup Snow Plows

Maintaining a pickup snow plow is essential to ensure it operates efficiently and extends its lifespan. Regular checks and care can prevent costly repairs and downtime, especially during peak snow removal season.

Pre-Season Preparation

Before the snow season begins, it's crucial to perform a thorough inspection of the snow plow. This includes examining the cutting edge for wear, ensuring all bolts are tight, and checking hydraulic systems for leaks. It's also wise to replace worn parts before they fail in the middle of a job.

• Inspect the cutting edge
• Tighten bolts and fasteners
• Check hydraulics for leaks
• Replace any worn parts

Routine Checks During Season

Once the season is underway, routine checks become part of the daily ritual. After each use, clean off any salt or de-icing chemicals that can cause corrosion over time. Additionally, inspect the plow for any new damage or wear after heavy usage.

• Clean off salt and chemicals after use
• Look for new damage or unusual wear patterns
• Lubricate moving parts regularly

Proper Storage Post-Season

When winter ends, storing your snow plow properly will protect it from elements that could lead to rust or degradation. Coating exposed metal with protective lubricant and storing the plow in a dry environment will help maintain its condition until next season.

• Apply protective lubricant on exposed metal surfaces
• Store in a dry place away from direct sunlight

Hydraulic System Maintenance

The hydraulic system requires particular attention as it powers your snow plow's movement. Checking fluid levels regularly, replacing filters as needed, and looking out for signs of hydraulic wear are all important steps:

• Maintain proper fluid levels
• Change filters according to manufacturer’s recommendations
• Be vigilant about signs of hydraulic wear such as sluggish performance or leaks

By adhering to these maintenance tips, owners can significantly reduce potential problems with their pickup snow plows. Remember that consulting your owner's manual provides specific guidance tailored to your model which should not be overlooked when performing maintenance tasks.

Conclusion

Selecting the right pickup snow plow is a significant decision for anyone looking to clear snow efficiently during the winter months. Throughout this article, readers have gained insights into various types of pickup snow plows, their features, benefits and considerations when making a purchase.

It's clear that personal needs and local weather patterns are key determinants in choosing a suitable model. For instance, homeowners may prefer smaller, more maneuverable plows while commercial users might opt for larger, more durable options.

Here are some final takeaways:

• Always match the plow’s weight and size to your vehicle’s capabilities.
• Consider ease of installation and storage as important factors.
• Look for models with adjustable blade angles to maximize efficiency.
• Maintenance and durability should not be overlooked.

To summarize, investing in a high-quality pickup snow plow can save time and effort when combating winter weather. With proper research and consideration of the points discussed, consumers can find a reliable tool that will serve them well throughout the snowy season. Remember to prioritize safety by adhering to manufacturer instructions and guidelines for use.

Before making any final decisions or purchases it's recommended to consult with professionals or read reviews from current users. This extra step ensures that one's investment leads to satisfaction and commendable performance during those demanding winter days ahead.