Snow Plow Buying Guide
When the snow piles high, you can get your property cleared fast with the help of your very own snow plow. Installing a snow plow on your truck puts you in charge, so you’re not dependent on anyone else’s equipment or timeline. This is a great strategy if you own or manage a commercial property if you have a huge yard, or a long driveway that’s tough to clear. If you want to save money on snow-clearing services, consider all these tips so that you can make the most out of your new snow plow.
Consider Your Plowing Vehicle
You need a vehicle with adequate power and bulk to operate a snow plow. To figure out if your truck has what it takes, first, determine the front gross axle weight rating (FGAWR) of your vehicle so you purchase a plow that’s compatible. This number refers to the maximum allowable weight to be placed on the front axle. A larger plow is heavier and requires a higher FGAWR rating than a smaller, lighter plow.
If you’re doing commercial work, you’ll probably need at least a three-quarter-ton pickup truck with a high FGAWR to handle a larger plow. An eight-foot plow blade is the smallest you’ll want for commercial work. For those of you just plowing your own business or property, you can probably manage with a half-ton truck and a smaller snow plow blade.
Straight vs. V-Blade vs. Hinged
The next decision you face is whether to choose a straight blade, a V-blade, or a hinged blade. Here’s a brief guide to the differences.
Straight snow plow blades are the most commonly used because they have a broad range of uses along with a lower price tag. Other benefits: They are easier to operate, and they have fewer moving parts so they’ll last longer and demand less attention.
V-blades are equipped with multi-position capabilities, so they’re much more precise and versatile. With a V-blade, you don’t need to plow your driveway at an angle, you can hit it head-on. It converts into a scoop position, making it much faster to clear large surfaces. Also, it’s good at cutting through snow banks left behind by other plows.
A hinged blade is another option. These are like a straight plow with wings on each side, which can be retracted or angled. This gives you the advantage of a narrow blade in tight quarters that can be expanded to a larger blade when the situation dictates. When the wings are drawn forward, the blade has scooping capacity.
Features and Controls
Finally, you’ll want to consider the benefits and drawbacks of different snow plow features, such as hydraulic vs. electrical systems, and blade control options. Hydraulic systems are known for their robustness and have been the go-to for many years. They offer powerful performance, especially in heavy-duty plowing situations. On the other hand, electric plow controls are gaining popularity due to their simplicity and ease of maintenance. They tend to be quieter and can be more user-friendly, making them a great choice for those who prioritize convenience and lower upkeep. Additionally, having intuitive blade controls right at your fingertips enhances the plowing experience. In-cab controls that are straightforward to operate allow you to smoothly adjust the height and angle of the blade without breaking a sweat. This means you can effortlessly adapt to different snow conditions and obstacles, ensuring a clean and efficient path every time.
Whatever you decide, we can bet that the perfect Snow Plow is waiting for you at Crownstone Equipment. We proudly serve those throughout all of Pennsylvania and Maryland, and we look forward to helping you find your perfect snow plow soon! Visit us today.