Pre-Storm Snow Plow Equipment Checks That Save You When the Storm Hits
When a winter storm is bearing down, the last thing any snow and ice management contractor wants is unexpected equipment downtime. A blown hose, loose connection, or dead battery can cost hours when conditions are at their worst—and those hours add up fast. The good news? A thorough pre-storm equipment check can prevent most of these issues before your trucks ever leave the yard.
Smart prep isn’t just about protecting your equipment—it’s about keeping crews moving, routes on schedule, and customers satisfied.
Start With the Basics: Snow Plow Equipment Pre-Storm Checks
Before heading out, take a few minutes to run through these critical checks:
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Inspect electrical connections and harnesses for wear, corrosion, or loose fittings
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Power up controllers and test or confirm function
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Check hydraulic lines, wear points, and moving parts
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Verify lights, visibility, and safety equipment
These quick checks alone can catch issues that might otherwise sideline a truck mid-storm.
Dig Deeper: Complete Pre-Storm Snow Plow & Truck Inspection Checklist
For maximum reliability, a more detailed inspection should be part of every pre-storm routine:
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Inspect all bolts and fasteners on the plow
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Inspect and re-torque fasteners in the vehicle mount
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Inspect all welds in the plow structure and vehicle mount
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Check the cutting edge and plow shoes; replace if necessary
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Change hydraulic fluid as recommended
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Tighten trip and return springs (a good rule of thumb: a business card should slide between the coils at the center of the spring)
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Grease the vertical pin and all pivot points
Each of these steps helps reduce wear, prevent failures, and ensure consistent performance when equipment is under heavy load.
Prepare for the Unexpected: Emergency Snow Plow Parts Kit
Even with the best prep, things can happen. Having an emergency parts kit on hand can be the difference between a quick fix and hours of lost time.
Consider stocking:
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Hydraulic fluid and hoses
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Solenoid and fuses
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Trip and return springs
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Safety strobe and flares
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Tow strap and a shovel
Also, don’t forget to have the truck’s charging system and battery inspected. Cold temperatures are unforgiving, and electrical issues tend to show up at the worst possible time.
The Final (But Important) Check
Make sure the alarm clock and coffee pot work. Long nights, early mornings, and tough conditions demand sharp, alert operators.
Built for the Storm: Why Pre-Storm Snow Equipment Inspections Matter
Pre-storm inspections take time—but they save far more time once the snow starts falling. A prepared truck is a productive truck, and preparation is what keeps operations moving when winter is at its worst.
BOSS backs you up.
Pre-Storm Equipment Checklist: Key Takeaways for Snow Contractors
Consistent pre-storm inspections help reduce 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 and fasteners, proactive maintenance is one of the most effective ways to protect uptime and profitability during snow season.