Plow Operator's Guide - Basic Guide to Plowing

PLOWING

PLOWING

Setting Vehicle Height For best plow performance the plow platform and base must be parallel to the surface being plowed. The vehicle height should be adjusted prior to plowing to set the plow in the correct position. This can be done by adjusting the vehicle spring settings, adjusting tire pressure, and adding or removing weight from the vehicle. Be sure to include the weight of the driver on the vehicle when setting up the machine.

Step 1: PUT ON GLOVES & INSPECT YOUR EQUIPMENT Look for loose hardware, worn components and inspect for damage. Correct issues before you plow. Set blade pivot to straight position. Step 2: POSITION THE BLADE ASSEMBLY AND VEHICLE Carefully move the vehicle and plow assembly to a flat level area and about 3’ (1m) apart. Slowly move the vehicle towards the mounting tabs of the tube assembly until the push tube is between the front tires. Step 3: ENGAGE THE PLOW ASSEMBLY TO THE VEHICLE MOUNT Lift the push tube at mounting tab end and slide plow assembly on wear bar, seating the alignment pilot disks into the mount cradle. If the plow is on a loose surface, you may need to work on one side and then the other. Step 4: INSTALL THE CONNECTING PINS AND LATCH THE PIN BAIL On each side, install the connecting pin. You may need to wiggle the push tube assembly to allow the pin to easily insert. If you find difficulty, a tapered drift may help align the holes. WARNING Never operate the plow near bystanders. WARNING Always operate the vehicle at a low speed with the blade installed. WARNING Never exceed 5 mph (8 km/h), even with blade up. Use low range if vehicle is equipped. WARNING Always plow cautiously, impact with hidden or stationary object may cause the vehicle to stop suddenly or go out of control. Always stay clear of moving parts and joints. WARNING Always keep others away when operating or adjusting plow. WARNING Always wear gloves when handling winch rope.

WARNING Vehicle weight balance and stability can be greatly changed when a plow is attached and when the vehicle is pushing a loaded plow. With this change, steering and vehicle control will be different. WARNING Always operate the vehicle at a low speed with the blade installed. Never exceed 5 mph (8 km/h), even with blade up. Use low range if vehicle is equipped.

Step 5: ATTACH THE LIFT DEVICE If you are using a winch, put the winch in freespool and pull out 3 to 5 feet (1 to 2 meters) of wire rope. Route the rope through the rope guide and attach the hook to the cross member of the tube assembly as shown. Close the rope guide and insert the locking pin. When using another type of lifting device, carefully review and follow the instructions included with that device. Step 6: CHECK THE LIFT DEVICE OPERATION Lift and lower the plow. Note how far you can lift without stalling the lifting device or causing impact between the plow assembly and the vehicle. Do not over lift the plow during use. Step 7: SET THE BLADE ATTACK ANGLE, SKID HEIGHT, AND BLADE PIVOT ANGLE See the plow blade labeling for tips on setting up the blade for the job at hand. If the material is deep, plow several thin layers at a relaxed attack angle, minimizing load on the plow and vehicle. Finish the job with an aggressive attack angle to leave a clean surface.

Every plowing situation is different. Always plan ahead before you start. It is up to you to analyze the situation and make the decisions necessary for the proper use of your WARN products. Some key things to remember when using your WARN plow: √ Vehicle weight balance and stability can be greatly changed when a plow is attached and when the vehicle is pushing a loaded plow. With this change, steering and vehicle control will be different. √ 5 MPH (8 KPH) maximum. Keep your speed low and pay attention to how the machine is responding to your control. The plow may impact unseen and immovable objects, causing a sudden change in vehicle control. Use low range and 4WD if the vehicle is so equipped. √ Keep bystanders away from the plowing route or path. Steering and vehicle control are different when plowing, changing reaction time. √ Wear proper safety equipment. Carefully review your vehicle manual and labeling. √ Inspect your equipment before and after each use. Get it repaired if damaged. This applies to the plow, winch (if used) and vehicle. √ Set your plow up for the conditions. Best performance is obtained with the right attack angle, spring tension and pivot angle. Too much cutting action will slow or stop your progress. Too little may not get the job done. √ Never plow side hills steeper than 10 degrees.

WARN INDUSTRIES 11

WARN INDUSTRIES 12

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