Last week I picked up a slightly used '15 F250 with a new 8 1/2 ft Fisher plow. I have noticed a couple times when I raise the plow the screens on the dash & the console go blank for a second or so & return. It doesn't do it every time but I have noticed it a few times in the brief time I've had the truck.
Just guessing that this could be caused by too much voltage drop for the computer on the truck but to be honest I'm so out of touch with new vehicles that I may be in left field.
I'm not sure if the dealership installed the plow or one of their suppliers as there is a sticker from a reputable supplier on the plow.
I'm just curious if anyone else out there has noticed something similar with a large draw on their electrical system? I was able to search out the window sticker which shows it was fitted with the snow plow package as well as an extra heavy duty alternator.






Any help appreciated.

 

It's a known issue ..... here's one link that discusses it

https://www.plowsite.com/threads/14-15-superduties-low-voltage-drop-reboots-dash-nav-displays.161170/

 

Thanks for that. Read it over & seems as though they haven't found a cure?
My concern is if something doesn't recover or perhaps shuts the whole truck down leaving me stranded somewhere.
I can live with things just having to re-boot....leaving me stranded doesn't appeal to me at all.


Keith

 

This one shows a Ford service bulletin


https://www.plowsite.com/threads/updated-body-control-module-for-voltage-spikes.169270/

 

So if I have this right adding a 2nd battery or doing the service bulletin doesn't solve the problem.
Has this issue shut down any trucks? That's my main concern.


Keith

 

One thing often overlooked in troubleshooting electrical gremlins is good grounds.
Inspect, clean, tighten and spray battery protectant on all grounds (and positives) in the plow and start/charge systems. To include the starter, alternator even the little grounds attached to the inner fenders. If you don't have good clean ground paths the voltage will seek the path of least resistance. This wreaks havoc on sensitive electronics.
Many times the plow installing technician will use scotch-locks to connect the control wires to the truck system. Scotch-locks are a no-no in my book, even if in the cab. All splicing should be performed with shrink type butt-connectors or the old school solder and shrink tube methods. Wire nuts and scotch-locks do not belong on any vehicle.
Look at the joystick connections. Look at the control relay connections for the plow. Look at the quick-disconnect plug for the plow/lights. Disassemble it, clean it, reassemble it using dielectric grease. Have the plow motor tested for high amperage draw. Same for the alternator. Is the alternator properly sized for the additional load of the plow motor. Does your truck have the factory plow package?
A 2-year-old truck that sees salt and snow needs to have this service performed annually to ensure trouble free operation and good electrical continuity throughout the electrical systems. The factory connections offer zero corrosion protection. I wish Ford would offer a salt belt or winterizing package. Spraying all mechanical electrical connections with corrosion/verdigris protection would be part of this package.
Have the truck Krown or Corrosion Free rust protection service applied annually. Leave the truck unprotected expect rust through and rot in 5 years. With the rust protection, you will see 10. I do the Krown annually. It works. My 11 looks new. I live in the salt belt. Steer clear of the undercoating system which sprays the black tar like substance on the undercarriage.