Snow plow question

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Dec 11, 2010 | 08:07 PM

WINGNUT-

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From: Sodus, NY

Snow plow question

I have a Fisher plow set-up that runs off a hydraulic pump that is powered by the engine. This is the first plow truck I have ever owned, so I am not sure what is normal operation and what indicates that something is wrong.

In my opinion, the plow tends to lift very slowly. And when their is a lot of snow stuck to the blade, it will barely lift. I will then need to kick the snow off in order to lift it. And it doesn't lift that high to begin with. Is this normal for an engine driven pump versus an electric pump? Or is the pump worn out? Has anyone dealt with this problem before?

Dec 12, 2010 | 01:02 AM

Ford_Six

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From: The Big, Oregon

Make sure the valve linkages aren't worn. If they are worn, you won't be able to get full travel and full flow in the hydraulics.

Dec 12, 2010 | 10:03 AM

WINGNUT-

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From: Sodus, NY

Are these located on the controller, or on the valve body under the hood?

Dec 12, 2010 | 11:35 AM

fellro86

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From: Marengo, Iowa

That would be the valve body. Also, the type of fluid matters, some get thick in the cold, and cause trouble as well. It could possibly be the pump though. Water contamination can also be the cause, fight that on some of our tractors. Heat the fluid, and it works fine until the next time...

Dec 12, 2010 | 12:44 PM

Ford_Six

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From: The Big, Oregon

Yeah, I didn't think of that. AW hydraulic fluid stays thinner than ATF, and there are also some special plow hydraulic fluids.

Dec 12, 2010 | 05:21 PM

cdrmotorsports

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From: Lancaster, MA

Check the fluid first, make sure that it isn't milky or contaiminated in any sort of way. Even with the older Speedcasts like yours, it is not normal for it to lift under strain like that. check out this website for more info and help under the Fisher Plows section:

plowsite.com

Dec 12, 2010 | 06:16 PM

WINGNUT-

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From: Sodus, NY

I operated the plow today in 40* degree weather and it was able to lift a little bit higher and move somewhat quicker.....still not great though.

When I bought the truck the plow pump was filled with Advance Auto GM DEX 3/M transmission fluid, and that is what I am currently using. I checked it today and the fluid is bright red, not milky in any way.

I also checked the valve linkages and all seems well.