Pre-Storm Snowplow Equipment Checks That Save You When the Storm Hits

Pre-storm snowplow inspections should include checking electrical connections, hydraulic systems, cutting edges, trip springs, fasteners, lights, and the truck’s battery and charging system. Taking a few minutes to inspect your equipment before a winter storm can help identify problems before they cause equipment failures, downtime, or delays during snow removal operations.

Essential Snowplow Equipment Checks Before a Winter Storm

Before heading out, take a few minutes to run through these critical checks:

• • • Inspect electrical connections and harnesses for wear, corrosion, or loose fittings

    • Power up the controller and confirm that all functions are working properly

    • Check hydraulic lines, wear points, and moving parts

    • Verify lights, visibility, and safety equipment

These quick checks can catch issues that might otherwise sideline a truck during a storm.

Complete Snowplow and Truck Inspection Checklist

For maximum reliability, a more detailed inspection should be part of every pre-storm routine:

• • • Inspect all bolts and fasteners on the plow

    • Inspect and re-torque fasteners in the vehicle mount

    • Inspect all welds in the plow structure and vehicle mount

    • Check the cutting edge and plow shoes; replace if necessary

    • Check hydraulic fluid and change it as recommended

    • Check trip and return springs. As a general rule of thumb, a business card should slide between the coils at the center of the spring

    • Grease the vertical pin and all pivot points

Each of these steps helps reduce wear, prevent avoidable failures, and keep equipment performing consistently when it is under heavy load.

Emergency Snowplow Parts Every Contractor Should Carry

Even with the best preparation, equipment issues can happen. Having an emergency parts kit on hand can help turn a potential breakdown into a quicker repair and get the truck back to work.

Consider stocking:

• • • Hydraulic fluid and hoses

    • Solenoids and fuses

    • Trip and return springs

    • Safety strobe and flares

    • Tow strap and a shovel

    • Basic hand tools

Also, have the truck’s battery and charging system inspected before the season and checked as needed during the winter. Cold temperatures can put additional demands on a truck’s electrical system.

Pre-Storm Equipment Checklist: Key Takeaways for Snow Contractors

Consistent pre-storm inspections help reduce avoidable breakdowns, extend equipment life, and keep snow plow trucks operating efficiently during peak winter events. From checking hydraulic systems and electrical connections to inspecting cutting edges, springs, fasteners, and vehicle mounts, proactive maintenance helps protect uptime and keep your operation ready for the next storm.

Frequently Asked Questions