Snowplow Preseason Checklist

The first snowfall is a tough time to discover a leaking hose or a plow that won’t move. Even if everything worked last spring, a preseason inspection can help you catch problems before you need your equipment.

⁰¹ Inspect the blade and mounting hardware

Check the blade, cutting edge and shoes for excessive wear, cracks or damage. Inspect mounting points, welds, pins and fasteners for missing hardware, looseness or cracks. Look over trip springs and pivot points for damage or binding. Follow your model’s maintenance and adjustment instructions, and replace worn components before they cause additional damage.

⁰² Check hydraulics and electrical connections

Inspect hoses for cracks, rubbing and leaks. Check cylinders for leakage and damaged rods. Service the hydraulic fluid according to your owner’s manual, using the specified fluid. WESTERN recommends changing the hydraulic fluid once a year. At Spellman Trailers, we recommend doing this in the fall before the plowing season starts. Inspect wiring, plugs and connectors for corrosion, loose connections or damaged insulation. Clean and protect connections as directed, and check the truck’s battery and charging system.

Storage doesn’t guarantee everything stayed ready. Look for rust on exposed metal, corrosion inside connectors, deteriorated rubber and evidence of rodents chewing wiring or nesting around equipment.

⁰³ Test every function before snow arrives

In a clear area, with everyone safely away from the equipment:

• • Confirm the plow attaches and locks securely.
• • Test raising, lowering, angling and float.
• • Test each wing and the V, scoop or extension functions your model provides.
• • Check headlights, high and low beams, turn signals and parking lights.
• • Watch for uneven movement, unusual noises or fresh leaks.

Complete another function check after servicing.

⁰⁴ Put together a small spare parts kit

Ask about model-specific spares, including hydraulic hoses, mounting pins and clips, and compatible replacement bulbs where applicable. Keep the manufacturer-specified hydraulic fluid and recommended grease available. Check your cutting edge early so you have time to order a replacement if needed.

⁰⁵ Have your equipment information ready

When requesting parts, provide the plow’s brand, model, blade size and serial number if available. Photos of the entire plow, identification labels, connectors and damaged part can help. For truck-side components, include the truck’s year, make and model. On older WESTERN® equipment, plug count and connector pin count can also help identify the system.