Why You Need van with plow and How to Choose?
Winter roads can be unforgiving, but with a van equipped with a snow plow, you can conquer even the most challenging conditions. A van with plow offers the perfect blend of practicality, power, and convenience, allowing you to clear snow and maintain accessibility with ease.
In this blog post, we’ll delve into the world of vans with plows, exploring the benefits, types, installation guide and tips to help you get the most out of this extraordinary combination. Let’s start!
Some Benefits of a Van with a Plow
Let’s quickly go through the advantages of having a van with a plow attached before getting into the specifics. These vehicles are ideal for:
#1. Snow Removal
A van with a plow is perfect for dealing with heavy snowfall. With a plow attached, you can clear your driveway, and parking lot, or even help out your neighbors in no time. It’s a real time-saver compared to shoveling by hand.
#2. Versatility
A van is generally pretty versatile, and adding a plow only enhances that. You can use the van for transporting people or cargo when you’re not plowing, and if you need to plow, just attach the plow and you’re good to go!
#3. Income Potential
Having a van with a plow can provide an opportunity for some extra cash during the winter months. You can offer snow removal services to your neighbors, and local businesses, or even get contracted by your city, turning your van into a little snow removal business.
#4. Safety
A van with a plow helps maintain safer roads and walkways during winter months. Clearing snow and ice from driveways, sidewalks, and parking lots can prevent accidents and make it easier for people to get around.
#5. Convenience
With a van and a plow, you don’t have to worry about storing separate equipment like a snowblower. Plus, the plow attachment can be easily removed when not in use, allowing you to make the most of your van during other seasons.
Types of Plows to Consider for Your Van
If you’re looking to add a plow to your van, there are several types you might want to consider. In this conversational overview, we’ll discuss four popular types of plows: straight, V, winged, and box plows.
Keep in mind that not all vans are suitable for all types of plows, so make sure to consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual and consult with a professional before making a decision. Let’s dive in!
Straight plows
Straight plows are the most common and simple type of plow. They feature a straight blade, typically made of steel or polyurethane, that can be adjusted to different angles to direct snow to the left or right.
These plows work well in light to moderate snowfall and are fairly simple to operate. They might not be as effective, though, in dealing with significant snowfall or breaking through snow that has been compacted.
V plows
The blade of a V plow, often referred to as a multi-position plow, can be set up in a V shape, a straight line, or a scoop thanks to its distinctive construction.
They are the best for removing various kinds of snow and ice because of their adaptability.
While the scoop position can be used to push and carry snow more effectively, the V position is particularly useful for breaking through tightly packed snow or ice.
V plows are typically more expensive than straight plows, but many van owners favor them because of their versatility.
Winged plows
Winged plows feature extendable wings on either side of the main blade, which allows them to move more snow with each pass. These wings can be independently controlled, giving you the ability to angle them for optimal snow removal.
This makes winged plows particularly efficient for clearing large areas and deep snow. However, they tend to be more expensive and require a more powerful vehicle to handle the additional weight.
Box plows
Box plows, also known as containment plows, have tall vertical sides that form a box around the blade. This design effectively contains the snow, preventing it from spilling out the sides during the plowing process.
Box plows are ideal for removing large amounts of snow in parking lots or other open spaces, but they may not be as maneuverable in tight spaces or around obstacles.
Things to Consider When Choosing Plow for Your Van
Choosing the right plow for your van is crucial to ensure efficient snow removal while minimizing potential damage to your vehicle. Here are some factors to consider when selecting the right plow:
Van compatibility
It’s super important to choose a plow that’s a perfect fit for your van. Start by checking the specs from the plow manufacturer to see if your van’s make, model, and year are good to go.
Don’t forget, you might need some modifications like beefing up your suspension or checking weight restrictions.
Plow type
There’s more than one kind of snow plow, you know! You’ve got your straight blade, V-plow, and extendable plows.
Depending on your area’s snowfall and the terrain, one type might be better for you than the others. Do some research to find the right fit.
Plow width
When it comes to width, bigger isn’t always better. Sure, a wider plow clears more snow, but it can be a bit tricky to navigate in tight spots. Find a width that works for your van and the spaces you’ll be clearing.
Material
Plow materials matter too. Steel is durable, stainless steel resists rust, and polyethylene is lightweight and less likely to scratch surfaces. Think about your priorities and choose accordingly.
Mounting system
You need a plow that attaches to your van properly. Frame-mounted, receiver hitch-mounted, and front hitch-mounted systems are some popular options. Double-check compatibility with your van before making a decision.
Hydraulic or electric lift
When it comes to lifting and lowering your plow, you’ve got two main options: hydraulic and electric lifts. Each has its pros and cons, so weigh the ease of use, maintenance, and cost when picking one.
Weight
Don’t forget about your van’s payload capacity. A plow that’s too heavy can do some serious damage to your suspension, transmission, and other components. Keep your van safe by staying within the weight limits.
Warranty and support
If something goes wrong with your plow, a good warranty and knowledgeable customer service will help you avoid wasting time and money.
Choose a manufacturer who stands behind their goods and is there to assist you when necessary.
Local regulations
Be sure you are familiar with any local regulations regarding plow width, lights, or speed limits before you begin plowing. You don’t want to get caught breaking the law and receive a fine or worse.
Budget
Prior to going shopping, establish your budget because plows can be quite expensive. To be sure you’re receiving the best value for your money, compare the features of various plows in your price range.
How to Install a Plow on Your Van?
Wintertime snow and ice management can be made much easier by installing a plow on your van.
Keep in mind that not all vans are suitable for this task, so make sure your van can handle the extra weight and stress of a plow before you begin. You can install a plow on your van using the general instructions below:
Choose the right plow
Choose a snow plow that works with the make and model of your vehicle and purchase it. Consider aspects including weight, dimensions, and mounting compatibility while consulting the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Assemble the necessary tools and equipment
Tools including wrenches, sockets, pliers, a drill, and safety equipment are required (e.g., gloves, safety goggles). You could also require a friend to assist you in lifting and guiding the plow.
Prepare the van
Set the parking brake in place as you position your vehicle on a level surface. Before starting the installation, make sure the engine is off and the car is cool.
Install the mounting brackets
To secure the mounting brackets to the frame of your vehicle, adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions for the plow. As a result, carefully measure and note the positions before drilling any holes in the frame. Use the supplied hardware to affix the brackets.
Assemble the plow
The frame and push tube assembly of the plow are connected after the plow blade is fastened to the A-frame. To ensure proper assembly and attachment of these components, follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Attach the plow to the van
Lift the plow assembly with a friend’s assistance, then slot it into the mounting brackets on your van. Using the proper hardware, affix the assembly to the brackets (e.g., pins, and bolts).
Install the hydraulic system
You must set up the hydraulic pump, hoses, and wiring if your plow operates on a hydraulic system. This will differ based on the particular plow model, so pay close attention to the manufacturer’s directions.
Connect the electrical components
The electrical system of your van must be connected to the plow’s control module using the manufacturer’s recommended wiring. Make sure that every connection is grounded and secure.
Test the plow
Start the van’s engine, then monitor the plow’s movement using the control module. Check to see if anything needs to be adjusted and if everything is operating properly.
Inspect the installation
Following testing, check all bolts, connections, and other parts to make sure they are put securely. Make any necessary alterations or improvements.
Maintenance Tips for Your Van and Plow
Maintaining your van and plow properly is essential for ensuring their longevity and optimal performance. Here are some maintenance tips to keep both your van and plow in good working order:
#Van Maintenance Tips
- Regularly check and change engine oil
Observe the manufacturer’s recommendations for regularity in oil changes. Your engine will operate more efficiently and smoothly if you do routine oil changes.
- Inspect and replace air filters
The performance and fuel efficiency of your vehicle may suffer if the air filters are dirty. The manufacturer’s recommendations should be followed when replacing them.
- Check and maintain tire pressure
Uneven wear, poor handling, and decreased fuel efficiency can result from underinflated or overinflated tires. Regularly check your tire pressure and keep it at the manufacturer’s recommended level.
- Rotate tires
Rotating your tires on a regular basis might help to guarantee even wear and increase their lifespan. follow the suggested rotational intervals from the manufacturer.
- Inspect and replace brake pads
Brake pad wear can decrease stopping power and jeopardize safety. Check your brake pads frequently, and replace them as necessary.
- Test and replace the battery
A dead battery can leave you stranded. Check your battery’s charge regularly and replace it if it’s no longer holding a charge or if it’s nearing the end of its life expectancy.
- Maintain a clean interior and exterior
Cleaning your van on a regular basis will keep it looking excellent and help prevent rust and corrosion.
#Plow Maintenance Tips
- Inspect and grease all pivot points
To lessen friction and wear, regularly oil the pivot points of the plow. For the suggested lubricant and intervals, consult the owner’s manual of your plow.
- Check hydraulic fluid levels
Your plow’s performance may be impacted by low hydraulic fluid. Check the fluid level frequently, and top it out as necessary.
- Inspect cutting edge
Check for wear and damage on the plow’s cutting edge. To guarantee the best performance, replace it when it starts to show signs of wear or damage.
- Inspect plow lights and wiring
Check that the wiring is in good shape and that the plow lights are functioning properly. Any burned-out or broken bulbs should be replaced, and any wiring should be fixed.
- Tighten bolts and fasteners
To prevent loose parts, check your plow’s bolts and fasteners frequently and tighten them as necessary.
- Inspect and replace worn parts
The shoes and springs, for example, will eventually wear out in the plow. Check these components frequently, and replace them if necessary.
- Clean and store the plow properly
Clean the plow to get rid of any debris, snow, or ice after each usage. While not in use, keep the plow in a dry, protected area to avoid rust and corrosion.