How to Adjust a Snowplow Attack Angle for Better Scraping Performance

A properly adjusted snowplow attack angle helps the cutting edge maintain even contact with the pavement, improving scraping performance and reducing plow chatter and uneven cutting-edge wear.

On a BOSS V-plow, the first step is to verify that the push beam is at the correct height. If the push beam height is correct but the cutting edge still does not sit level, the attack angle can be fine-tuned by adjusting the bumper stop.

Check the Push Beam Height First

Vehicle height can vary depending on the truck, suspension, and mounting configuration. Before adjusting the attack angle, verify that the push beam is set to the required height for the plow.

The required push beam height for common BOSS V-plows is:

• • • HTX V-plow: 14 ½ inches

    • 7'6", 8'2", and 9'2" XT and DXT V-plows: 15 ½ inches

    • 10' DXT V-plow: 16 inches

The measurement is taken from the ground to the center of the pinhole on the push beam hook.

If the push beam height is correct and the cutting edge is still not level with the pavement, the bumper stop may need adjustment.

How to Tell if the Attack Angle Needs Adjustment

The cutting edge should make consistent contact with the pavement across the center section and wing tips when the plow is properly positioned.

Common signs that the attack angle or plow setup needs attention include:

• • • The center cutting edge sits above the pavement.

    • The wing tips sit above the pavement.

    • The plow chatters excessively during operation.

    • The cutting edge wears unevenly.

    • The plow leaves snow behind because part of the cutting edge is not contacting the pavement.

The two most common leveling issues are a center section that is too high or wing tips that are too high.

If the Wing Tips Are Too High

If the center section is contacting the pavement but the wing tips are lifted above the ground, the bumper stop needs to be moved toward the truck, away from the center section.

Adjust the bumper stop one hole at a time, then check the cutting edge again.

Bumper Stop Adjustment: Wing Tips Too High

1. Use a floor jack to support the coupler.

2. Loosen the four trip springs.

3. Lower the jack to the floor to release tension on the bumper stop.

4. Move the bumper stop toward the truck, away from the center section, one hole at a time.

5. Tighten the trip springs.

6. Check the cutting edge again and repeat the adjustment if necessary.

If the Center of the Plow Is Too High

If the wing tips contact the pavement but the center section or snow catcher is lifted above the ground, the bumper stop needs to be moved toward the center section.

Move the bumper stop one hole at a time until the center cutting edge makes proper contact with the pavement.

Bumper Stop Adjustment: Center Too High

1. Use a floor jack to support the coupler.

2. Loosen the four trip springs.

3. Lower the jack to the floor to release tension on the bumper stop.

4. Move the bumper stop forward, toward the center section, one hole at a time.

5. Tighten the trip springs.

6. Check the cutting edge again and repeat the adjustment if necessary.

Why Proper Attack Angle Matters

The attack angle determines how the cutting edge contacts the pavement while plowing. When the plow is not sitting correctly, part of the cutting edge may remain off the ground.

Proper adjustment can help:

• Improve scraping performance.
• Reduce plow chatter.
• Promote more even cutting-edge wear.
• Reduce the amount of snow left behind after a pass.

If the plow continues to sit unevenly after the bumper stop has been adjusted, verify the push beam height and consult the applicable BOSS installation and adjustment information for the specific plow model.

Snowplow Attack Angle Troubleshooting

Frequently Asked Questions