Plowing combines heavy loads, low speeds, constant direction changes, salt and cold. That puts extra stress on the transmission, cooling system and front end of the vehicle as well as on the plow itself. Plow manufacturers specify their own hydraulic fluid and service intervals, so start with the plow manual and the vehicle’s severe-service schedule.
Before the season
- Hydraulics: check fluid level and condition in the plow pump, and look for leaks at hoses and cylinders. Use the fluid type the plow maker specifies.
- Pivots and pins: grease every fitting and check for worn pins and bushings.
- Electrical: clean and protect connectors and plugs, and check the lights and controller.
- Cutting edge and shoes: check wear and replace before the edge wears into the moldboard.
- Vehicle: check engine oil, transmission fluid, coolant, battery and front-axle service per the severe-service schedule.
During the season
Rinse salt off the plow and undercarriage when temperatures allow, recheck hydraulic fluid and hardware, and watch transmission temperature on vehicles that have a gauge. Diesel plow trucks parked outside also need winter-blend fuel or a cold-flow additive; see diesel winter fuel.
End-of-season plow storage checklist
- Wash off salt and let the plow dry fully.
- Retract cylinders as far as the manual allows to protect chrome rods, and coat any exposed rod.
- Change or check hydraulic fluid per the plow manual, since water collects over a season.
- Grease every pivot before storage to push out moisture.
- Protect connectors and cap the vehicle-side plug.
- Touch up chipped paint and coat bare steel against rust.
- Store the plow off the ground on blocks or a stand, under cover if possible.
Frequently asked questions
Do plow trucks need more frequent fluid changes?
Plowing usually counts as severe service. Check the vehicle’s owner’s manual for the severe-service intervals for engine oil, transmission fluid and axles.
What hydraulic fluid goes in my plow?
Use the fluid the plow manufacturer specifies; many call for a low-temperature fluid. The vehicle’s fluids are a separate question for the AMSOIL lookup.
Can a UTV with a plow use the same care routine?
Yes, scaled down. UTV plows also need pivots greased, salt rinsed off and winch or lift parts checked, and the UTV itself needs its cold-weather service.
AMSOIL products for this job
- AMSOIL Synthetic Water-Resistant Grease. AMSOIL says: “Specially formulated for wet-duty performance”; “Excellent water-washout resistance to stay in place longer”.
- AMSOIL Heavy-Duty Metal Protector. AMSOIL says: “Protects against the effects of salt, moisture and chemical corrosion”; “Sprays into hard-to-reach places and works as an undercoat”.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Multi-Vehicle Synthetic ATF. AMSOIL says: “Withstands the rigors of heavy towing, elevated temperatures and challenging terrain”; “Remains fluid in sub-zero temperatures”.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Max-Duty Synthetic Diesel Oil. AMSOIL says: “Excels in extreme temperatures”; “Maintains proper viscosity (thickness)”.
- AMSOIL Diesel Cold Flow. AMSOIL says: “Combats fuel gelling in cold weather”; “Inhibits fuel-filter icing”.
Use the AMSOIL lookup for your truck or UTV to confirm which motor oil, transmission fluid and gear lube are listed for it.
Product wording above is quoted or summarized from amsoil.com. Read each product’s label and data sheet for directions.
Use AMSOIL’s official lookup guide to see what is listed for your vehicle or equipment, then order online whenever it suits you.