Snow Plow Installation, Operation, & Maintenance: A Complete Guide from Kunes Commercial

When winter weather hits hard, your commercial vehicles become critical tools for keeping roads, parking lots, and job sites clear and safe. At Kunes Commercial, we understand that a snow plow is more than just an attachment—it’s an investment in productivity and safety. Whether you’re preparing a municipal fleet, outfitting a landscaping business for winter contracts, or ensuring your own lot stays open for business, proper installation, operation, and maintenance are key to getting the most from your plow.

Before installing, make sure your snow plow matches your vehicle’s size, weight capacity, and intended use.

• Vehicle Match: Heavy-duty trucks and chassis cabs are ideal for large plows, while mid-size trucks and SUVs can be equipped with lighter, more maneuverable options.
• Plow Type: Straight blade plows are great for basic clearing, while V-plows and winged plows offer faster and more versatile snow-moving capabilities.
• Hydraulic or Electric Lift: Hydraulic systems are more durable for heavy use, while electric options may be more affordable and easier to maintain.

Kunes Commercial can help assess your vehicle’s compatibility and recommend the ideal plow setup for your needs.

Proper installation ensures safety, efficiency, and long-term performance. Our certified technicians follow manufacturer specifications and industry best practices, including:

• Mounting Hardware Installation: We securely fit the plow mount to your truck’s frame, ensuring proper alignment and load distribution.
• Electrical System Setup: Wiring harnesses, control systems, and lighting connections are installed cleanly and tested for reliable operation.
• Hydraulic System Preparation: For plows with hydraulic functions, we check for correct fluid levels, hose integrity, and pressure settings.
• Test & Calibration: Before delivery, we run a full operational test—raising, lowering, angling, and lighting—to verify everything functions correctly.

Pro Tip: Always work with an authorized dealer or service center like Kunes Commercial to avoid warranty voids and potential safety hazards.

Snow plowing can be demanding on both the vehicle and the operator. Following best practices helps extend equipment life and ensure safe conditions.

• Pre-Operation Inspection: Check hydraulic hoses, mounting points, and electrical connections before each use.
• Appropriate Speed: Operate at moderate speeds—too fast can cause equipment damage and reduced control.
• Blade Positioning: Keep the blade low but not dragging to reduce wear. Avoid fully angling the blade on uneven ground to prevent catching.
• Snow Stacking: Push snow in layers for large accumulations instead of overloading the plow in one pass.
• Watch for Hazards: Hidden curbs, manhole covers, and debris can damage your plow and vehicle.

Snow plows work in extreme conditions, so regular maintenance is critical to performance and longevity.

After Each Use:

• Rinse off road salt and debris to prevent corrosion.
• Inspect for bent components, cracks, or worn cutting edges.
• Check hydraulic fluid and top off if necessary.

Seasonal Maintenance:

• Grease all pivot points and hinges.
• Inspect the electrical system for worn connectors or exposed wires.
• Replace cutting edges when worn to 50% of original height.
• Check mount bolts for tightness.

Off-Season Storage:

• Store indoors or under a weatherproof cover.
• Disconnect and clean all electrical connections.
• Drain or stabilize hydraulic fluid if storing for extended periods.

At Kunes Commercial, we don’t just sell and install snow plows—we partner with businesses to keep them operating at full capacity through every snowstorm. Our services include:

• Expert plow installation on all major commercial vehicle platforms
• Factory-trained technicians with experience on multiple plow brands
• Comprehensive seasonal maintenance packages
• Access to OEM replacement parts and upgrades
• Emergency repair service to minimize downtime

With Kunes Commercial, you get more than a snow plow—you get a team dedicated to your winter success.

Snow plow installation, operation, and maintenance require professional attention to detail. By investing in the right equipment, installing it properly, using it wisely, and keeping it well-maintained, you’ll maximize performance and extend the life of your plow.

Ready to outfit your fleet for winter? Contact Kunes Commercial today for expert advice, installation, and maintenance services to keep you moving when the snow starts falling.