What these parts are

A plow system for a small vehicle includes a blade, a frame and mount, lift hardware and wear parts. This category collects the parts that attach to or replace pieces of the blade assembly, including the blade itself, a bucket conversion, wear bars, side walls and skid shoes. Because Warn is the brand listed, product names refer to Warn plow systems.

Wear parts

• Wear bars, also called cutting edges, take the scraping contact with the pavement or gravel, so they wear down and are meant to be replaced.
• Skid shoes set the blade height off the surface, which protects the blade bottom and the surface you are plowing.
• Side walls help hold snow in front of the blade.
• Latches and hardware secure the plow to its mount.

Check wear bars regularly, and replace them before the blade itself starts to wear.

Blade and bucket choices

Plow blade width is chosen to suit the vehicle, with wider blades moving more snow per pass but requiring more power. A bucket conversion is meant to carry and push material, like gravel or mulch, in addition to snow. When picking a blade or conversion, match it to your plow's mounting system and check the stated width and compatibility, since different plow series use different hardware.

Installation and use

Park on level ground, and use the manufacturer's instructions for assembly and torque specifications. Replace hardware with the right fasteners, and use thread locker where the instructions call for it. Keep the plow within the vehicle's rated capacity, as adding weight to the front changes steering, braking and axle load. Move slowly, and avoid hitting hidden objects such as curbs, which can damage the plow and the mount. Lower the blade when parked and store the plow on a dry surface.

Compatibility

Check the product's listed compatibility with your plow model and vehicle, and confirm with the manufacturer's specifications for dimensions and hardware before choosing. Note that wear parts can be consumed quickly in gravel or on rough pavement, so check them often and carry spare hardware, such as bolts and nuts, because the vibration and impacts of plowing can loosen fasteners. Keep a record of the part numbers for your plow so that replacements are easy to match to the model.

Maintenance and storage

After each use, rinse off salt and slush, and let the plow dry. Salt corrodes steel, so touch up chipped paint and lubricate pivot points with a recommended grease. Check the lift system, whether electric or manual, for smooth operation and tight connections. Inspect the blade for cracks, bends and loose fasteners before each season. Keep the plow at the working height and avoid carrying it raised at speed on roads. Do not plow with worn skid shoes, because the blade can dig into the surface. In the off-season, store the plow where it will stay dry, and cover electrical connections with dielectric grease.

Practice on an open, level area before working near obstacles. Learning how the blade angles, floats and responds to throttle makes it easier to avoid hitting curbs, hidden rocks or utility covers.