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Snow Plowing this winter

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Old Nov 6, 2008 | 06:40 AM
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Snow Plowing this winter

I just bought a Boss V-plow for this winter. I was wondering if anybody has any suggestions as to how to prepare my truck for the snow, this will be my first winter plowing. I just put a brand new tranny in my truck so I think that is not going to be a problem. I was wondering if I should replace my springs with the X code springs like some guys have. I have a leveling kit on the front should I take this off? Any help would be great guys.
 
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Old Nov 6, 2008 | 07:00 AM
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need the x-springs because of the added weight.
 
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Old Nov 6, 2008 | 07:36 AM
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X-Codes would definately be a good idea, but that still does not help that the plow is too heavy for your front axle. FGAWR is only 5200 lbs.
 
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Old Nov 6, 2008 | 08:37 AM
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Does you truck have a plow prep package? If so you're probably ok...
 
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Old Nov 6, 2008 | 08:56 AM
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Originally Posted by NewEnglandHerdsman
Does you truck have a plow prep package? If so you're probably ok...
It should not have the plow prep package. '99 - '04 SD's did not offer the plow prep package on super cab's and crew cab's when equipped with the PSD due to weight issues. '05 was the first year that plow prep was offered with the PSD's on supers and crews as they went to a 6,000 lb axle upfront. If I remember right, BOSS V-Plows average 850 lbs to 1000 lbs depending on model/options and a stock truck like the OP's weighs around 4500 lbs on the front axle before adding any occupants or equipment.
 
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Old Nov 6, 2008 | 10:14 AM
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I have the sme truck as you w/ the v10 and a boss 8'2 v. Has been the most reliable work horse I HAVE EVER OWNED! Just drive sensibly( wait for tranny to shift before getting on the gas) and you will be fine. Good Luck
 
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Old Nov 6, 2008 | 10:35 AM
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Ballast

Put 850lbs ballast (tube sand) in the bed between the rear wheels and the tailgate. This will put some of the weight of the plow onto the rear axle and off the front axle. It will also greatly increase your traction. If you do get stuck, cut open a bag and use it.
 
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Old Nov 6, 2008 | 10:36 AM
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If you don't want to mess with the leveling kit look into front air bags. They will handle the weight and not change the ride that you have.

Toyman
 
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Old Nov 6, 2008 | 01:01 PM
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I agree with the X-code springs.

Looks like you have a real trans temp gauge so that's a plus.


Which Boss V did you get?

8'2" Power-V is 770lbs

And the heaviest is the 9'2" Poly V at 866lbs.

My 9'2" Power-V XT is 842lbs.


Lightest is the 7'6" Power V at 700lbs....but with a SD I'd think you didn't get that one.


I agree with running some ballast right inside the tailgate.
 
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Old Nov 6, 2008 | 01:08 PM
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My advice ballast is to add it if you need to for handling purposes, but not for traction. Tire slip is a good "fuse" for your drive train...
 
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Old Nov 6, 2008 | 01:10 PM
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Hey guys,

I run a 8' western polly pro plow on my rig. What are the X-code springs that are mentioned?...
 
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Old Nov 6, 2008 | 01:12 PM
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Originally Posted by gofast51004
Hey guys,

I run a 8' western polly pro plow on my rig. What are the X-code springs that are mentioned?...

They are Ford springs rated for 6000lbs.
Better handle the added weight of the plow.
 
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Old Nov 6, 2008 | 01:35 PM
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The plow is the 8' 2" one. I was thinging about the front bags but didn't know. They would probably be cheaper then the springs. Do you thing my one altenator will be able to handle the strobes, plow and a top rotater light? Is there any way possible to add a second with a stock bracket?
 
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Old Nov 6, 2008 | 01:40 PM
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Originally Posted by NewEnglandHerdsman
My advice ballast is to add it if you need to for handling purposes, but not for traction. Tire slip is a good "fuse" for your drive train...
Jim, the ballast advice IS for handling purposes; traction is a secondary benefit. When plow customers are calling to see where you are (stuck in driveway #3 of a 25 driveway route) you won't be worrying about your drive train's "fuse"!
 
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Old Nov 6, 2008 | 01:40 PM
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I don't think you can add another one. You can go with a high output alternator.
If your alt is in good condition it should be fine.


Front bags for a leaf spring truck are ~$235 for the kit.
 
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