How to install a snowplow on your truck

If you own a full-frame pickup truck or SUV, installing a snowplow can be a game-changer. It makes clearing your driveway a breeze, and you can become a community saviour whenever the snow flies. Best of all, installing a hitch-mount snowplow is a straightforward DIY task. Here’s a seven-step guide:

1. Ensure you have the properhardware
Before starting, gather a front hitch hardware kit containing nuts, bolts, mounting plates and fish wire. Ensure compatibility with your truck, as front hitch installation through the frame is crucial for durability.

2. Assemble the bolt plate
Thread a bolt through a bolt plate from the hardware kit and attach fish wire to guide the mounting bolts onto the frame.

3. Thread the wire through the frame
Feed the fish wire through the exposed frame end, reaching the hole above the front sway bar bracket. Pull the wire through the hole.

4. Pull the bolt through and thread the wire through the hitchhole
Ensure the bolt passes through the frame hole and adjust if necessary. Pull the wire through the receiver hitch’s mounting tab on both sides.

5. Secure the hardware
Secure the hardware using a wrench, socket or impact driver to prevent vibrations. Hand-tighten the mounting nut while avoiding pushing the bolt back into the frame.

6. Repeat the process on the opposite side
You mustrepeat the steps on the opposite side of the truck, ensuring a solid mount and a balanced installation.

7. Insert the plow mounting bar into the receiver hitch
Attach the plow onto the hitch using the provided hardware, ensuring a secure fit. For electric-controlled plows, consult the owner’s manual for specific instructions.

Tips for enhanced snow plowing

Besides installing a plow mount, make the following adjustments to your truck to make moving snow easier on your vehicle:

• Change your tires. Replace regular tires with dedicated snow tires for improved traction in heavy snow.

• Adjust for extra weight. Address the additional weight of the plow by installing frame supports and reinforcing and upgrading the suspension.

• Upgrade the brakes. Upgrade the brakes to handle winter conditions, the extra front-end weight, and increased usage.

• Keep things cool. Your truck will work extra hard when plowing, so install additional coolers for engine oil, transmission, steering and differentials to prevent overheating.

• Regular maintenance. Make routine servicing and maintenance a priority to enhance the truck’s longevity and performance.

Do you have the right truck? Ensure your vehicle is suitable for plow work. Avoid using sports trucks designed for street performance.

Your trusted snowplow dealers in Mississauga and Scarborough

At Hitch City, we carry an unparalleled selection of mountable snowplows, including straight blades, V-plows and winged models. We also have towing and trailer hitches. To learn more about our snowplow dealers in Scarborough and Mississauga, contact us today..