Keeping ahead of winter storms is tough in this part of the country, so it’s wise to have a plan of attack in advance of the rough weather. Today, many homeowners and small business owners in the snow removal business rely on snowplows to stay one step ahead of the storm.
To stay safe and to ensure your snowplow is ready for action this season, The Hitch Factory and The BOSS Snowplow offers these seven easy guidelines and maintenance tips.

1. Do your homework.

Become familiar with your snowplow owner’s manual. It provides valuable information such as maintenance procedures, operation guidelines, parts diagrams, snowplowing tips and a troubleshooting guide.

2. Think safety first.

You should carry safety items in your vehicle at all times, including a fire extinguisher, tool kit, tow strap, flashlight, flares, first-aid kit, fuses for your vehicle, jumper cables, an ice scraper, lock deicer, extra washer fluid, a shovel, and a bag of sand or salt.

“Your safety and the safety of others on the road depends on careful planning,” says Ernie President of The Hitch Factory. “Winter can be harsh; that’s why it’s essential to prepare a safety kit.

Ernie suggests packing warm clothes, insulated boots and underwear, a winter jacket, hat, gloves, sunglasses, and a cellular phone or two-way radio.

3. In case of emergency . . .

Keep your snowplow emergency parts kit stocked with extra hydraulic fluid, hydraulic hoses, a pump solenoid, extra cutting-edge bolts and a trip spring.

4. Inspect your vehicle.

Because sub-zero temperatures can wreak havoc on your vehicle, you should routinely check tire pressure, engine belts for cracks and tightness, and hoses for leaks. Also, watch fluid levels including the engine oil, brake fluid, transmission fluid, battery, radiator coolant, and windshield washer fluid. And don’t forget to fill your fuel tank.

A battery’s biggest enemies are wet conditions and salt, which cause it to corrode. Therefore, be sure to check the battery terminals for deterioration or loose connections. Don’t forget to ensure your vehicle’s windshield wipers and defrosters are in good condition and work properly.

5. Make a spectacle of yourself.

If you don’t have a strobe light or backup lights, consider adding them. They will increase the visibility of your vehicle, especially while plowing in the dark or during severe winter conditions.

Brake lights, vehicle lights, plow lights, turn signals, and strobe lights should be examined before going out to plow to be sure they’re working properly.

6. Look closely.

Always check your snowplow’s bolts to ensure they are tight, and examine your snowplow for cracked welds and hydraulic fluid leaks.

7. Don’t wear it out.

Get in the habit of always inspecting your snowplow cutting edge and plow shoes for wear so an over worn cutting edge doesn’t cause costly damage to your snowplow.