Right Blade, Wrong Installation

You’ve invested in a high-quality plow blade, you’re confident it will last all season, and you’re ready to fit it to your machine. But after your first trip out of the garage, it still breaks! What gives?

Sometimes you might have the right blade, but your installation process is still a little off. Here are seven common installation mistakes mechanics make and what you can do to prevent them.

1) Installing on a dirty or rusty moldboard 

Be sure to clear your moldboard of dirt, rust & debris using a wire brush prior to installation. Otherwise the built-up gunk can affect proper installation.

2) Installing on a damaged moldboard
A damage moldboard won’t hold your blade up either. Proper moldboard repair is critical to maintaining the health of your plow and must be done before installing your cutting edge.

3) Incorrect/Dirty Plow Bolts 
Always use grade 8 hardware of the appropriate length.

4) Torque 
We get asked questions about torque more than any other installation problem! Check your bolts for the proper SAE torque recommendations based on your specific blade system.

5) Attack Angle
Determining your plow’s attack angle prior to purchasing your blade system means choosing the blade that will best fit your plow while providing maximum performance and wear life. Installing the right blade with the wrong attack angle can lead to ineffective performance. Learn more about attack angle considerations.

6) Gauge 
An incorrect gauge could mean ending up with a blade and/or guards that don’t wear together. Be sure to measure the distance between the top of the blade and the center of the bolt hold to determine your gauge.

7) Having the Right Tools on Hand 
An impact wrench is your best friend during a blade installation. You want to place a jack beneath your plow for extra safety measures. Keep an installation tool checklist in the garage so you know you have everything you need on hand prior to beginning the installation process. 

If your installation technique is off, your blade performance will be as well. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your high-quality blades last season after season.