Snow Plow Buyers Checklist
The leaves are changing in many parts of the country to vibrant reds and oranges and with
that comes the thought of the next season that will descend upon us - plowing season. Whether you are responsible for removing snow from your own personal driveway or if you are a commercial snow removal contractor responsible for multiple accounts, the purchasing of snow removal equipment is on the minds of many as we prepare for the ground to turn white.
Snow removal equipment purchases, like many other purchases, offer several options to consider before making a purchase. Here is a check list of a few questions to ask yourself before purchasing a snow plow:
1. WHAT KIND OF SNOW PLOWING WILL YOU BE DOING?
___My own driveway
___A few residential driveways
___Contracted snow removal (parking lots, side roads, residential and business lots)
Before purchasing your next snow plow, consider how you are going to use the plow and how often. Are you a homeowner that has a long driveway to clear, but don’t plan on doing commercial work? In most cases, homeowners choose a 7’ or 8’ plow as this size is adequate for light residential work. However, if you are thinking about contracted snow removal of big parking lots, side roads, long rural driveways, commercial snow removal professionals generally want a larger plow as they are focused on removing the snow quickly and efficiently in an effort to move from one job to the next.
2. WHAT KIND OF VEHICLE WILL YOU BE USING FOR YOUR SNOW REMOVAL?
___ Light Duty pickup/SUV
___ 1/2 ton pickup
___ 3/4 & 1 ton pickup
___ Heavy Duty pickup
___ Skid Steer, Front End Loader
___ Utility Terrian Vehicle (UTV)
The type of vehicle that you will be using for your snow removal is an important consideration when purchasing a snow plow. Snow plow recommendations are based upon the Front Gross Axle Weight Rating (FGAWR) of the vehicle that you own. The FGAWR is the specific weight determined by the vehicle manufacturer to be the maximum allowable weight that can be placed on the front axle. Because the vehicles axles should never be loaded beyond the manufacturer's listed FGAWR, the type of snow plow you put on the front of your vehicle should comply with these weight recommendations.
If you are plowing your own driveway or several small residential driveways, most 1/2 ton pickups and in some cases, even smaller pickups and UTV's will work. If you are doing commercial snow removal, it is recommended that you use at minimum a 3/4 ton pickup truck for this type of work. Before purchasing a blade make sure to check if the blades weight is within the FGAWR for your vehicle.
3. WHAT TYPE OF SNOW PLOW BLADE DO YOU WANT?
___ Straight Blade
___ V-Blade
In general, either plow design will get the job done. Straight blade snowplows are still a big seller as they tend to cost a bit less than V plows. But the V-plow does have the ability to angle and direct snow – as well as “scoop” snow for stacking that straight blades simply can’t do. The v-plow also handles snow that has “frozen” overnight better than a straight blade. When put into the “V” position, the plow’s arrowhead configuration can slice through hard snow better than the flat surface of a straight blade. That slicing action also makes the operation easier on the vehicle and the operator.
4. WHAT TYPE OF PLOW MATERIAL DO YOU WANT?
___ Steel
___ Poly
___ Stainless Steel
On the commercial plow side: All three materials will do the job for you, but each has its own strengths and weaknesses. Poly is the slickest material of the three, as such, snow will not stick to the blade and will slide off the blade easier and faster than it will with the other materials – as such, it is becoming the choice of more and more professionals out there. It is also extremely corrosion and scratch resistant.
Stainless Steel has visual appeal and corrosion resistance and perhaps a slight advantage in “slickness” versus mild steel, but it is also prone to denting – any rocks you hit will leave “dings” in the blade.
Mild steel has been used to manufacture plows for decades. Steel provides durability, rigidity and overall value.
One common myth to dispel: Poly plows are not lighter than their steel counterparts. In fact, they are usually heavier. Why? Because the poly material lacks the rigidity of steel, it must be “backed” or reinforced with even more steel in order to keep its shape. As such – poly plows are commonly heavier than steel plows.
There are more considerations when it comes to purchasing a plow, but this is a great starting list. Visit on-line plowing forums or Facebook pages of the snow plow brands to learn more or speak with your local snow plow dealer for help in making your purchasing decision.
Happy Plowing!
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Everett Warren Backs Up Troops as Volunteer for Project EverGreen’s SnowCare for Troops Funded by THE BOSS Snowplow
Everett Warren, owner of Green Man Enviroscaping, offers custom landscaping and snow and ice removal services for clients in Central Pennsylvania and finds time to give back to his community through service projects. As a member of Project EverGreen’s SnowCare for Troops, Warren provides complimentary snow and ice removal for the family of a deployed service member in his area. Now in its second year, SnowCare for Troops is funded by THE BOSS Snowplow and was created to help lighten the load for the families of our service men and women.
Q: What is SnowCare for Troops?
A: SnowCare for Troops is an outreach program coordinated by Project EverGreen and funded by THE BOSS Snowplow that connects local snow removal professionals and other volunteers with men and women serving our country in the armed forces away from home. The program matches volunteers with military families in their local communities to help with the tough task of snow removal on the home front.
Q: Why is a program like SnowCare for Troops needed?
A: Often the family members left behind are faced with the burden of managing all of the household responsibilities without a support network. SnowCare for Troops lends a helping hand to lighten the load.
Q: How do you sign up to help a military family with snow removal services?
A: It’s easy to volunteer, and you can join by visiting the Project EverGreen website at www.projectevergreen.com/scft. Hundreds of snow removal companies have already signed up for the SnowCare for Troops program, and many more volunteers are needed. I’m impressed with how professional the organization is and I’m excited about getting set up with my family for this year. It feels good to give back in this way.
Q. Are there other ways to support SnowCare for Troops?
A. Yes. In addition to volunteering, you can loan snow removal equipment to a local volunteer, and you can donate money, transportation or gas cards.
Q: Why did you volunteer for SnowCare for Troops?
A: I believe it’s important to give back to those who are giving their service to our country. It’s good karma to pay it forward, and SnowCare for Troops helps out in a very concrete way.
Q: Why did you choose THE BOSS for your snow removal equipment?
A: I research all my business decisions and chose THE BOSS because of its dependability and dealer service. We have had significant snow events in this area, so I do depend on THE BOSS equipment to be in top working condition. I also have confidence in THE BOSS dealer network in case I need parts or service. So far, I’ve not had to worry about that, but it’s an important factor.
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How To Guide: Plowing With Your BOSS Snowplow Straight Blade
THE BOSS Straight-Blades are the proven choice for professionals and homeowners alike. Built with an optimized blade curl that means snow rolls cleanly off the plow. To maximize the efficiency of your straight blade use this how to guide for tips on using your BOSS Snowplow Straight Blade.
Angle-Position
In this position the blade is angled to either left or right side of the vehicle. Use this position for windrowing or widening after the first pass.
How to Windrow
With the blade angled to the left or right side of the vehicle, make consecutive passes--each time throwing the snow forward and to the side. This technique is useful to clear large areas such as parking lots.
Straight-Position
In this position the blade is positioned directly in front of the vehicle. Use this position for backdragging, removing a large windrow or cleaning up at the end of the job.
How to Backdrag
To remove snow from the edge of a building, raise the blade and drive forward to the building. Lower the blade, then back up while pulling the snow away from the building. You should backdrag only two or three truck lengths before turning around. You can then back into the cleared area and push snow forward. Your plow will be more effective when pushing snow than when backdragging over long distances.
At the end of the job, adjust the blade to the Straight-position and push snow directly ahead--cleaning up any spill off left from previous plowing.
Deep Snow
In deep snow raise the plow several inches off the ground to shear off the top layer. If you have a Power-V Plow, use the V-position for the first pass. Then change to the Scoop or Angle-position to widen things out. You should push just enough snow with each pass to get the job done efficiently without overloading your equipment. A good rule of thumb is to use a full blade width for two inches of snow or less, three quarters of the blade for four inches of snow and a half blade for six inches of snow or more.
Wet Snow
The best advice is this: Once you start, finish the job. Wet snow left in windrows overnight can freeze and turn into tank traps by morning.
Check out this how to video to see the BOSS Super Duty in action.
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How To Guide: Plowing With Your BOSS Snowplow Power V
THE BOSS Power-V Snowplow is a multiposition plow that lets you quickly and easily choose from a variety of blade positions including a Scoop, Straight, Angle or V-position--and anything in between. The how to guide below explains each of the blade positions and best practices for each configuration.
Power-V Position
In this position the blades are retracted toward the truck. This position is normally used for making the first pass. It's ideal for plowing a lane through deep snow or punching through snowdrifts and hard-packed banks or windrows left by city and county plows.
Scoop-Position
This position is used for carrying or controlling the snow--with the blades pushed out to form an inverted V shape. It's most useful for clearing parking lots or other large areas where snow must be pushed straight ahead--and not to the side. It's also useful for cleanup work at the end of the job. You'll find the Scoop-position to be the most useful for many plowing situations. And it's also a great time-saver.
Angle-Position
In this position the blades are positioned to either the left or right side of the vehicle. Use this position for windrowing or for widening the first pass.
Straight-Position
This position is normally used for backdragging--with the blades positioned directly in front of the vehicle. For example, to remove snow from the edge of a building, raise the blade and drive up to the building. Then lower the blade and back up--pulling snow away from the building.
With a little experience, you'll develop your own methods for plowing and learn exactly which plow position to use for each pass.
Deep Snow
In deep snow raise the plow several inches off the ground to shear off the top layer. If you have a Power-V Plow, use the V-position for the first pass. Then change to the Scoop or Angle-position to widen things out. You should push just enough snow with each pass to get the job done efficiently without overloading your equipment. A good rule of thumb is to use a full blade width for two inches of snow or less, three quarters of the blade for four inches of snow and a half blade for six inches of snow or more.
Wet Snow
The best advice is this: Once you start, finish the job. Wet snow left in windrows overnight can freeze and turn into tank traps by morning.
Follow these few simple tips and you will be on your way to using your BOSS Snowplow to its maximum potential.
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Chris James shares keys to success for his snow and ice removal business, starting with quality equipment he can depend on from THE BOSS Snowplow
Chris James, owner of Chris James Landscaping, has offered full landscaping and snow and ice removal services for residential and commercial clients throughout Northern New Jersey for 30 years.
James, a Certified Snow Professional through the Snow & Ice Management Association, says he focuses on snow and ice services throughout the winter months and is always looking for ways to improve his business.
“I require dependable equipment to keep up with the severe weather conditions in recent years,” he says. That means durable equipment that doesn’t break down frequently to keep operators on the road. “THE BOSS is my product of choice for snow and ice removal equipment.” James is also president of Snow and Ice Solutions and teaches a snow removal management course at Rutgers University.
Q: How important is THE BOSS dealer to your business?
A: Snow and ice are hard on equipment, and my purchasing decisions come down to how well the product is supported. My BOSS dealer, Showalter’s Equipment in Florida, N.Y., is on the front lines. He really backs me up and provides the support, stocks the products and has the technical expertise to guide me through any issues. THE BOSS’ strong parts inventory is crucial to the success of my snow and ice removal business.
Q: How did you handle this year’s winter season?
A: It was brutal. We had nine large snow events in 38 days. This area averages 30 to 40 inches per winter, and last year we experienced 60 to 70 inches. Each event ranged from 6 to 30 inches and really tested the equipment and operators. I can’t emphasize enough how important it is to have reliable equipment with top-notch maintenance support. We pushed equipment 12 to 18 hours per day. One commercial job required 40 straight hours, with two employee shifts working
around the clock.
Q: How did sales reflect the record snowfall?
A: We had all-time, recordsetting net profits. It was our biggest winter and single largest gross sales in 30 years. We budgeted for about $450,000 and generated $750,000.
Q: What was your client feedback?
A: A roaring success. Every client renewed by June 1 this year. I attribute the excellent client feedback to our quality BOSS equipment and strong dealer support.
Q: What advice would you give to a landscaper getting into the snow removal business?
A: Treat snow removal like a profit center. Don’t overextend yourself. Sometimes
you have to pass on an opportunity in order to take care of the clients you have. Saying yes when you can’t deliver is a sure way to lose good customers. Buy equipment early and establish meticulous maintenance schedules. When you buy, don’t base the decision solely on price point. Make sure there’s a rock-solid dealer network like THE BOSS has that you can count on.
![BOSS UTV 600X220 Static[2]](/Portals/111368/images/BOSS_600X220_Banner_Static_2[1].jpg)
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Make Sure Your BOSS Snowplow is Ready for Money Making Season
With winter on the way, now is the time to make sure you’re well prepared to operate your snowplow equipment safely and effectively in a variety of snow conditions. Now is a great time to perform any needed maintenance or have service work done by a BOSS Snowplow Dealer – as the crush of the first winter snow hasn’t hit yet and you’re likely to have more flexibility with their service schedules.
Here are a few tips to help ensure that your equipment is ready to make you money this winter:
Check Your Vehicle
Whether plowing with a BOSS pickup truck plow, a BOSS UTV plow or a BOSS Box Plow, knowing that your vehicle is in running order will ensure that you are successful this winter:
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Check your snow plow vehicle’s tire pressure.
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Check all fluid levels including engine oil, brake fluid, transmission fluid, radiator coolant and windshield washer fluid.
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Check oil pressure, your engine will work hard this winter – oil is its lifeblood!
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Make sure the battery is working properly and that terminals are tightly connected with no corrosion.
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Check the condition of your wipers – operating your BOSS Snowplow with poorly operating windshield wipers is asking for problems. While you’re at it, make sure you defrosting system is working on snowplow truck as well!
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Check the vehicle’s headlights, brake lights and turn signals to ensure they are all in working order – visibility is crucial both to you and drivers around you.
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Never venture out without an adequate fuel supply.
Check Your BOSS Plow
You’ve checked your snowplow vehicle, now make sure your BOSS Snowplow is ready to go as well:
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Make sure that all bolts on your snowplow are tight and well fastened.
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Look for cracked welds and hydraulic fluid leaks.
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Make sure the plow lights and turn signals are aligned properly and are in good working order.
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Carry a few extras – keep a BOSS Snowplow Emergency Parts Kit handy that includes extra hydraulic fluid, hydraulic hoses, a pump solenoid, extra cutting-edge bolts and a trip spring.
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If you notice that you are in need of service or parts, call or visit your nearest BOSS Snowplow Dealer, if you need help locating your nearest dealer, simply visit bossplow.com and either use the Dealer locator, or feel free to use the new Live Chat button to chat (on-line) with a BOSS Snowplow factory representative.
Be Prepared
Become familiar with the BOSS Snowplow owner’s manual. It provides valuable information including maintenance procedures, operation guidelines and tips about taking your plow out of storage.
The BOSS Backs You Up!
Remember, if you need us, we’ll be there to get you back up and running. Many BOSS Snowplow dealers feature 24-hour service during big snow events. At the BOSS Snowplow Headquarters you can call us with questions, talk to our Technical Service department, send us an email or with our newest addition to customer service, chat with us live on bossplow.com. If for some reason we can’t speak with you right away, leave a message, and we’ll get back to you quickly!
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Tripping: It’s How a Snowplow Protects Your Truck
Obstructions and obstacles are a part of snow plowing. They come in all sizes and shapes, from manhole covers and curbs to frozen snow banks and everything in between. Hitting something covered by snow is almost inevitable. This reality of snow removal requires snow plow manufacturers to design and build in features that protect the truck and the plow from damage.
By definition, Blade tripping is the rotational movement of an element of the snowplow blade system in reaction to impacting an obstacle. Blade tripping is typically offset by some type of spring mechanism. The purpose of Blade Tripping is to protect the snow plow and vehicle from excessive forces which might result in damage to the snow plow or truck. At slower vehicles speeds, the tripping action may be less pronounced, but the inertia of the vehicle will often allow the snow plow to clear the obstacle anyway – either way, the vehicle and the plow are protected from damage.
Two things reduce the energy of the impact to the vehicle and operator and snow removal equipment, the tripping mechanism and pressure relief valves. Pressure relief valves utilize hydraulic cylinders which are able to absorb some of the energy produced by the impact. Working in tandem, the valves and the tripping mechanisms provide protection during the snow removal process.
Understanding the importance of protecting valuable snow removal equipment, BOSS Snowplows has outfitted its plows with various tripping capabilities. Some of our products have tripping moldboards, in which our entire moldboard structure rotates to provide the protection. Other straight blade models feature Tripping Cutting edges, in which just the cutting edges trip.
BOSS V-plows are designed with Full Moldboard Tripping. They are designed to trip in any position that a plow operate or will use them in, including the “V”, “straight” and “scoop” positions – in other words, in any position. The attached video, recently filmed with professional, high-speed cameras gives you an excellent view of the BOSS V-plow tripping moldboard tripping over obstacles at various speeds. Notice how the impact is absorbed before it gets to the vehicle and driver. Even at higher speeds the driver’s body is impacted very little.
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Advice for New Comers: Buy Quality
Snowplow Products, It May Save Your Business
Winter and the big storms that accompany it offer a narrow window of opportunity for snow removal professionals to bolster their bottom line. In fact, some winters can provide few major storms and it’s imperative to capitalize on those that do occur. No one knows this better, than BOSS Snowplow-powered Brian Hominunk, President of Foegley Landscape in South Bend, Indiana.
Picking up where his father Robert left off, Hominunk started snow plowing over 20 years ago and today his growing fleet of BOSS Snowplows allows his company to focus on high-end, zero tolerance properties, including; miles of driveways, roadways, commercial lots and other retail parking spaces. He attacks these spaces with a fleet of 8 BOSS snowplows, with plans to add several more this season: “This season I am stripping off two Western 8’6” MVPs and installing 2-8’ 2” BOSS Poly Vs,” he said.Hominunk is also looking seriously at the BOSS BX-12 box plows.
In fact, Hominunk has converted his entire fleet of plows from Western to BOSS over the last couple of years. Why? “Snow has variables and some are out of your hands, while others, like the plow you choose to run is up to you, and why one would choose anything other than BOSS is beyond me,” Hominunk said. “The bottom line, is I can’t afford to have a plow down. Reliability and durability is everything to me. In 7 years we have had to replace one motor on a BOSS snowplow – that’s something!!! I don’t have to worry about the plows making it through the night, the BOSS plow can take the bumps and bruises and gets through. We have never had to bring a BOSS plow in and weld it up!” Hominunk’s years of plowing with other brands of equipment give him the expertise and point-of-view to call the BOSS snow removal equipment “the best.”
When a big snow event is in the forecast, Hominunk’s routine includes getting in touch with all his workers, subs and suppliers – and making sure they are all aware of the impending event. Next, he ensures all the equipment that is off-site is topped off with fuel and are in running and plowing condition. He insists that every piece of equipment is given the “once-over” to make sure it is ready to go. If any larger equipment is being brought in – all of that preparation is also done.
“That’s the best part about the BOSS Snowplows, they don’t require much prep,” he continued, “I can take them off my list.”
Do the BOSS Features Really Mean More to the Bottom Line?
“The BOSS is the fastest V blade I have used and when you team the speed, stout framework and the lack of downtime, your efficiency is improved. Whoever designed the BOSS snowplow cutting edge that got rid of the puck on the v-plow and put curb wear bars needs a pat on the back! Also, the height on the BOSS Power V XT has helped a lot with plowing the miles of roads that we do. As the winter goes on the height of the snow along the roadway edges increases and now with the BOSS Power V XT I can launch it higher over that build up!”
Any Advice to Someone New Getting Into the Snow Removal Business About buying Lower-priced, lower-quality plows instead of a BOSS Snow plow?
“You need to ask yourself, can I afford not to have a plow that functions every time it snows?,” he said. Hominunk explained further: “If a person is just starting out, chances are they don’t have back up equipment and reliability is everything. Then, we you grow and become a significant player in the industry, can you afford to have equipment down and not perform for high-end customers – high-end customers are not going to take excuses, there is no calling and telling them your plow broke – they won’t hear it – and they shouldn’t have to. That’s why BOSS Snowplows is gaining the reputation with professionals that they are – they don’t let you or your business down. No question that BOSS is worth its price – I never even compare BOSS to any other manufacturer, it’s like comparing apples to oranges.”
Another aspect of BOSS products that Hominunk touted was service. He said the BOSS Snowplow Dealers and BOSS Manufacturing representatives stand behind the product and get parts, when they are needed, out as soon as possible.
You can also see Brian’s story on BOSS Snowplows YouTube Channel at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R9gFfULWgTs or simply go to BOSSplow.com and click on the YouTube Channel link. His story is also found on BOSS Snowplow’s Facebook page, which can also be accessed at bossplow.com.
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10 Things To Consider When Buying a Snowplow
According to all weather sources, another brutal winter is in store for cold-weather states in the U.S. That’s great news for everyone that makes money pushing snow and melting ice – there’s money to be made out there, that’s for sure!
Perhaps this string of big winters has you thinking about buying a plow to make some money. Or maybe you’re just looking for a plow to clear the snow from your driveway – either way, there are some important considerations in your choice of plowing equipment. Here are a few:
1. Buy Quality Products
- It’s important to start here because as you research your plow options, you will find a wide range of products at different prices. How different can they be – right? But beware – because a plow looks good sitting in the retail sales floor does not necessarily mean it will perform and last in the long run. It’s important to remember that phrase – “the long run”. If you step up to a quality plow, which may cost you more upfront, you can expect that the plow will last you for nearly a decade (depending on how severely you use it). Most plows of lesser quality simply will not last that long, and to compound the problem, you’ll quickly lose all the savings you thought you realized and the point of purchase by having to constantly replace broken parts. Not only will the parts cost you money, but the downtime without your plow will cost you even more – as those contracts you had for snow removal will quickly abandon ship and find someone to replace you – and just like that – your income stream is interrupted. When we speak to professional plowers about their business, this is the #1 regret they all have – not investing in a quality product in the beginning. Think about it, when was the last time you regretted buying something of high quality? Now, let me ask, when was the last time you regretted buying something because it was cheaper than the better products?
2. What kind of plowing will you be doing?
- Are you thinking about contracted snow removal of big parking lots, side roads, long rural driveways? You are going to want a larger plow - nothing less than 8’ in width – and you should seriously consider a V-plow – which provide quicker and more efficient snow moving capabilities than a straight blade.
- Are you a homeowner that has a long driveway that you want to clear, but don’t plan on doing commercial work? You will be more than happy with a 7’ or 8’ plow – and V or straight blade plow will work. If you own a UTV, consider a v-plow for it as well – as the UTV’s plowing capability, when matched with quality UTV snowplow can move snow nearly as efficiently as a smaller pickup truck.
3. What kind of vehicle do you own?
- If you are going to do commercial plowing work, you will want nothing less than a ¾ ton pickup truck. They have the Front Gross Axle Weight Rating (FGAWR) to handle the larger plows that are available, and chances are, you’ll need that larger truck’s payload capacity to outfit the truck with a salt/sand spreader too – after all, commercial contracts will always require ice control as well – and to be considered for the job, you’ll need the equipment.
- If you are plowing a driveway, most ½ ton pickups will do the job just fine, and in some cases, even smaller pickups will work. As was previously stated, if you own a UTV, it will do a great job on driveways with a good plow on it as well.
4. V-Plow Vs Straight
- In short, either plow design will get work done. Straight blade snowplows are still a big seller as they tend to cost a bit less than V plows. But the V-plow does have the ability to angle and direct snow – as well as “scoop” snow for stacking that straight blades simply can’t do. The v-plow also handles snow that has “frozen” overnight better than a straight blade – when put into the “V” position, the plow’s arrowhead configuration can slice through hard snow better than the flat surface of a straight blade. That slicing action also makes the operation easier on the vehicle and the operator.
5. Dealer Relationship
- I can’t stress the importance of a having good relationship with your dealer enough. Snowplows operate in a tough environment and as such, things happen. You will need parts or service at some point in time. This relationship usually begins in the purchasing process – and too often, folks make the mistake of price shopping dealers against each other, or, buying the plow on-line from a distant source and then expect their local dealer to fix the product immediately if something goes wrong. Trust me, the couple of hundreds of dollars you saved buying it elsewhere will not be worth it the long run – after all, your plow should last you for years – and having that relationship with a nearby dealer will make your service trips much easier!
6. Budget
- Do you have an idea of how much you want to spend on a plow? $3,000, $4,000, $6,000? If you’re looking at commercial grade products, the v-plows will be in the $6,000 range new, with straight blades being slightly less – again all depending on the models. For the homeowner – products will range in the $3-$4,500 range.
7. New vs Used
- Of course it’s always great to buy new products, but the reality is that often buying good used product makes more sense, especially if you’re just starting a business from square one. Used plows are often available at good snowplow dealers, and this is really where building a relationship with a local plow retailer will pay off. They will ensure that the used product you are considering has been thoroughly inspected and that any parts which need replacement – will be replaced. When looking at a used plow – look for obvious signs of abuse – bent blades or beams, broken welds, etc. Paint chipping and scratches are normal, and can be “touched-up”. You’re looking for damage to the major components here – and when you see them, they will be obvious. Remember, thick, heavy steel does not bend on its own, in some mysterious manner – if it’s bent, the previous owner hit something – it’s that simple!
8. Ease of Use
- Don’t overlook the attachment system of the plows you’re considering. You’ll need to attach the plow in the worst of conditions, dark, cold, ice, wind, salt, grime – it’s all part of the winter environment! Don’t buy into the hype of the “fastest” attachment systems, instead focus those that tout “ease” of attachment. There’s a big difference.
9. Blade Materials – Poly Vs Stainless Steel vs Mild Steel
- On the commercial plow side: All three materials will do the job for you, but each has its own strengths and weaknesses. Poly is the slickest material of the three, as such, snow will not stick to the blade and will slide off the blade further and faster than it will with the other materials – as such, it is becoming the choice of more and more professionals out there. It is also extremely corrosion resistant and scratch resistant.
- Stainless Steel has visual appeal and corrosion resistance and perhaps a slight advantage in “slickness” versus mild steel, but it is also prone to denting – any rocks you hit will leave “dings” and over the course of time, this will become unsightly and may affect the plow’s performance.
- Mild steel has been used to manufacture plows for decades. This workhorse proves durability, rigidity and excellent value.
- One common myth to dispel: Poly plows are not lighter than their steel counterparts. In fact, they are usually heavier. Why? Because the poly material lacks the rigidity of steel, it must be “backed” or reinforced with even more steel in order to keeps it shape. As such – poly plows are commonly heavier than steel plows.
10. Lighting Systems/Control System
- Lighting is one of the most important elements of a good plow product. Visibility during big snow events is often terrible with darkness, snow, blowing and drifting snow all parts of the plowing environment. You simply cannot overvalue good lighting – like a high-output, dual burn system. It’s also important to consider the mounting system for plow headlights. Many manufacturers use a dual-stud design which are prone to loosening and moving while plowing, a source of great frustration for those who have to operate them! Look for a headlight systems which uses a two-piece “clamp” design, which will keep the headlights in place.
- The only real interface you’ll have with your snowplow will be via the controller. Every manufacturer offers options for controllers like joysticks, an old traditional standby, or the touchpad controllers, with a keypad that features buttons which quickly position the plow in any way you want. Some manufacturer’s keypads controllers have 8 or more buttons – which can make them difficult to learn and use, especially for a beginner or someone with large hands. Again, ease of use is important for a snowplow, so look at the controllers with fewer, large buttons for easier use and learning.
There are more considerations when it comes to purchasing a plow, but this is a great starting list. Visit plowing on-line forums or Facebook pages of the plow brands to learn more. Contact BOSS Snowplows at any time to ask questions – www.bossplow.com.
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