A Snowplow Driver’s Pre-Expedition Checklist [Printable]

A snowy winter may look nice, but it can make travel hectic, stressful, and downright dangerous. Fortunately, that’s where snowplows come in.

You might want to drive off with your plow the moment there’s enough snow to be moved. However, being over-eager isn’t the best idea. To have a successful snowplowing season, you’ll need to make sure your snowplow and truck are prepared before getting out there.

With that in mind, here is a snowplow maintenance checklist you can use to make sure that you and your plow are ready for winter.

Get the printable version of this snowplow checklist here.

CHECK YOUR TRUCK FIRST

Ironically, the first step in snowplow preparation is all about your vehicle.

Attaching a snowplow adds extra stress to your truck, and you want to be confident that it’s up to the challenge. Failing to keep your trusty vehicle in peak working condition could leave you stranded on the side of the road in wintry weather that’s…less than pleasant.

So, even if you keep up with routine maintenance, it’s a good idea to give your truck a once-over in the following spots before snowplowing season begins.

1. Fluid systems

This includes your brakes, your engine's oil level, the windshield washer fluid, and everything in between. Make sure you’re topped off and ready to go.

2. Brakes

When working in snowy conditions, safety is key. If your brake pads need replaced, don't put it off. You could find yourself sliding off the road and into a ditch—or worse, into traffic.

3. Wheels and tires

Speaking of safety, if your truck's tires are worn or misaligned, you're asking for trouble. Make sure your air pressure is at optimal levels, and have your tires rotated and your wheels aligned when needed.

4. Windshield wipers

We know; this one’s self-explanatory. Make sure they’re in good enough shape to give you a clear view with two swipes.

INSPECT AND PREPARE YOUR SNOWPLOW

With your vehicle safely crossed off the list, it’s time to turn your attention to getting your snowplow ready.

Even if you completed rigorous end-of-season maintenance before storing your snowplow, we recommend checking it again. Equipment tends to fall into disrepair when it isn't in use, so it could be that there’s a bit of work to be done on your snowplow before you set out.

1. Fasteners

You don't want anything to fall off in the middle of a job. Check every bolt, screw, and lock pin to make sure it's secure.

2. Hydraulics

If your cylinder rams or hydraulic hoses leak or run out of fluid, your plow will be stuck in one position. To avoid this, inspect your snowplow's hydraulic system and replace worn hoses and cylinders when needed. Change the fluid every season as well.

3. Wear points and electrical connections

Pay extra attention to these areas. They're susceptible to breaking down, so clean them thoroughly and give them a coating of grease to keep them lubricated and protected.

4. Plow blade edge and shoes

Both your blade cutting edge and snowplow shoes provide an extra layer of protection to the bottom of your blade. If your cutting edge is at 3.5 inches or less, you’ll need to replace it.

Make sure your plow shoes are in good shape and replace them if needed.

5. Springs

If you hit a hidden obstacle or a thick mound of snow, your plow's trip springs absorb the impact. They also stabilize and balance your blade.

Unfortunately, trip springs tend to wear out quickly. Keep some spares on hand to save yourself a headache later.

6. Lights

Even though you already checked your truck's lights, don't neglect the lights on your plow. Adjust or align them as needed to make sure you can see where your blade is and where it's going.

SNOWPLOWING BEST PRACTICES

After you've given your truck and snowplow the inspection and maintenance they need, you're ready to hit the road, right? Well, you could. But if you're like us and want to do the job right, we have a few bonus tips for you.

1. Use snow stakes/driveway markers

If you live in an area that sees heavy snowfall, we can't stress this enough. Use driveway markers to line streets, roads, and driveways, protecting both your plow and the hidden curb.

2. Get blade guides

When plowing snow, visibility is key. Installing blade guides is never a bad idea. They’ll make it easy to see where your blade ends, allowing you to avoid oncoming traffic, mailboxes, and poles more easily.

3. Prepare an emergency kit

When working in harsh weather, always be prepared. Pack jumper cables, a flashlight, a shovel, a first aid kit, and backup food and water. Try to keep some spare parts on hand as well, such as trip springs, bolts, and electrical grease.

4. Stay motivated

Plowing snow isn't for the faint of heart. Brew yourself some coffee and eat a hearty breakfast before you get to work, and stay hydrated on the job.

5. Brush up on your knowledge

Last but not least, go through your owner’s manual and make yourself familiar with your plow and its operation.

You can also check out our blog on snowplowing tips and tricks to remind yourself of the basics.

Wrapping up

Follow these maintenance steps, and your truck and snowplow should run smoothly through the winter. Whether you operate a single plow for your friends and family or a snow removal business with an entire fleet, we wish you the best in the upcoming snowplowing season.

If you find yourself needing replacement parts, we stock a broad inventory of snowplow parts. Feel free to contact us if you need help finding a part. If you own a business and need to order in bulk, we’d be happy to discuss special pricing for you.

Here's a printable summary of the points we discussed. If it doesn't display below for you, you can also find it here: printable snowplow driver's checklist.

WRITTEN BY: LEAH JOHNSON [EDITED 10/2023]