As winter approaches, it’s crucial for snow removal professionals and property owners to ensure that their snow plow edges and spreader chains are in top-notch condition. Snow and ice can be relentless, and having well-maintained equipment is essential for efficient and effective snow removal.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide you with valuable tips for preparing your snow plow edges and spreader chains for the upcoming winter season. By following these recommendations, you can enhance your snow removal capabilities and ensure safer winter road conditions.
Importance of Snow Plow Edges and Spreader Chains
Before we dive into the maintenance tips, let’s briefly understand why snow plow edges and spreader chains are crucial components of snow removal equipment:
Snow Plow Edges
Effective Snow Removal: The cutting edge of a snow plow is the primary contact point with the accumulated snow and ice on the surface. A well-maintained snow plow edge is essential for efficiently clearing roads, parking lots, and driveways.
Preventing Surface Damage: Properly maintained snow plow edges help prevent damage to paved surfaces. When the edge is well kept, it will experience minimal contact and abrasion. This extends the life of both the equipment and also the surfaces that are being cleared.
Safety: Clearing snow and ice from roads and walkways is vital for safety. Sharp and well-maintained snow plow edges ensure that snow is removed effectively, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries.
Spreader Chains
Uniform Material Distribution: Spreader chains play a key role in evenly distributing salt, sand, or other deicing materials. Properly functioning chains prevent clumps and ensure consistent coverage.
Minimizing Waste: When spreader chains are in good condition, they prevent material waste by preventing clogs and ensuring that the material is being spread where it’s needed.
Reducing Maintenance Costs: Well-maintained spreader chains reduce wear and tear on the spreader equipment, leading to lower maintenance costs over time.
Now that we understand their importance, let’s move on to the essential tips for ensuring that your snow plow edges and spreader chains are ready for winter.
Tips for Snow Plow Edges
Inspect for Wear and Damage
Before winter sets in, closely inspect the cutting edge of your snow plow for signs of wear, damage, or rust. Look for cracks, chips, and uneven wear. Any visible defects should be addressed immediately by either sharpening or replacing the edge. This helps ensure that your snow plow edges are operating at peak performance.
Maintain Proper Edge Angle
The angle at which the plow edge contacts the ground is critical for effective snow removal. Ensure that the edge is set at the correct angle to maximize scraping efficiency without causing unnecessary wear on the edge.
Keep It Sharp
A sharp plow edge is essential for efficient snow removal. Regularly sharpen the edge using a grinder or a professional sharpening service. A sharp edge not only clears snow more effectively but also reduces the strain on your equipment.
Rotate or Flip the Edge
To maximize the life of your snow plow edge, consider rotating it or flipping it to use the opposite side. This can be done when one side becomes worn or damaged. Proper rotation ensures even wear and extends the edge’s longevity. If the wear and tear becomes too significant, it may be time for a snow plow edge replacement.
Invest in High-Quality Edges
Consider using high-quality, durable cutting edges. The most effective edges are the ones designed for the specific conditions you’ll be facing. While they may be a bit more expensive upfront, they can significantly reduce maintenance and replacement costs in the long run.
Check Mounting Hardware
Inspect the mounting hardware of your snow plow edge, including bolts, nuts, and washers. Ensure that they are tightened securely and in good condition. Loose or damaged hardware can lead to edge misalignment and reduced effectiveness.
Tips for Spreader Chains
Clean and Lubricate
Before winter begins, clean your spreader chains thoroughly to remove any debris, rust, or old material buildup. Once cleaned, lubricate the chains with a suitable lubricant to ensure smooth operation during spreading.
Adjust Chain Tension
Proper chain tension is essential for even material distribution. Check the tension of your spreader chains and make adjustments as needed to prevent sagging or excessive tightness. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for chain tension.
Inspect Chain Links
Inspect each link of the spreader chains for wear, damage, or signs of rust. Replace any chains or links that show significant wear or damage. Damaged chains can lead to uneven material distribution and equipment breakdowns. Equipment that is not in tip-top shape can quickly lead to a hectic winter.
Test the Spreader
Before the first snowfall, test your spreader to ensure that the chains are functioning correctly. Verify that the chains are spinning freely and evenly to distribute deicing material consistently. It’s wise to do this well ahead of time so that you aren’t stuck with faulty equipment after snow has accumulated.
Carry Spare Chains
Consider having spare spreader chains on hand in case of unexpected breakages that require a spreader chain replacement. This can help minimize downtime and keep your snow removal operations running smoothly when heavy snowfall sets in.
Store Chains Properly
During the off-season, store your spreader chains in a dry and protected area to prevent rust and deterioration. Proper storage extends the life of your chains and ensures they’re ready for use when winter arrives.
United Rotary Brush Corporation has been one the nation’s most reliable sources for all of the brooms listed in this article and many other items. We supply our clients with important items, such as airport runway brushes, street sweeper brooms, snow plow edges, spreader chains, and more. It is our mission to help our clients keep their environments clean and clear of trash, debris, and any other object that might get in the way.
For more information about our expansive inventory of gutter brooms, tube brooms, main brooms, strip brooms, wafer brooms, and more – contact us today at (800) 851-5108. You can also go online to see our full assortment of products from highly acclaimed brands like Global, Elgin, Schwarze, XBroom, SB Manufacturing, TYMCO, Bucher/Johnston, Virnig, Bobcat, Laymor, Paladin, and many others.
We look forward to assisting you!
