Anybody here plowing with the duramax, just wondering if you use the grill cover or not, i always plowed with a gasser and it would run a little hot with no cover.

Grill cover "only" on all winter does not seem to get hot,maybe a little increase in temp but not much

Same here, grille cover only. lower cover I think will interfere with the plow mount. No temp issue at all.

PLowing with the grill cover on always seemed to get an increase in tranny temp. Engine temp never got hot. My D/A 3500 was pushing a 9'er.

Thinking about a Boss for my Crew Cab Short bed.

Is this a no-no? GM does not offer the prep on this truck.

Hoot...


I have seen some of them running around town.... But I beleive it puts the front over it Manuf. Rec. weight. So you may have trouble getting someone to install it..... A friend that plows commercially could not get a CC for that reason....

Why anyone would take a nice truck, with a Duramax/Allison, and put a snow plow on the front is beyond me. Worst thing you can do to a pickup truck.

Hoot,


I work for Boss and I know of one person here that has a straight steel (lighter than poly...and lighter than V Blade). ISurvivedNMU is right....they don't recommend it because of weight. We have a guy in the shop that installs them for us, but finding a dealer to do it might be a little tough.

Why anyone would take a nice truck, with a Duramax/Allison, and put a snow plow on the front is beyond me. Worst thing you can do to a pickup truck.





Different strokes for different folks http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Wink.gif

Hey Hoot,

Not sure if this helps you or not but I was told GM doesn't offer the plow prep group on the crew cab because they don't think the frame can handle the extra waite. It's the same reason for them not offering it on the ext. cab with an 8 foot bed. I'm not sure I really believe it but that's what they told me.

Poolrebel

Thinking about a Boss for my Crew Cab Short bed.

Is this a no-no? GM does not offer the prep on this truck.

I agree with Pick....Instead of subjecting my $47K MSRP truck to all that severe service, I would rather have an old beater to plow snow, or hire somebody who owns one.

I don't agree with you guys on putting a plow on an new HD.
Different stroxe like MAX says.

If was talking commercial plowing...than yes.. I agree.
I'm considering a plow for personal and some light side money. I have a parking lot I get $100 for everytime I scrape it. (I usually have some old beater every fall) That price will go up and I have tons of $20-$40 driveways I can hit.

I figure $3500-$4000 for the plow installed. A decent beater with a plow costs at least that plus I have to pay insurance, maint tax tags.

I here the Boss frame is pretty inconspicuous. I see plows on just about every type of 4x4 vehicle ever made. Heck I had a 62 Willys Jeep a couple of years ago with a Meyers... An 86 Full size Blazer with a full size plow. You name it... they put them on it.

I can put a plow on this but not on Diesel HEAVY DUTY HD truck?
http://www.uscom.com/~hoot/cars/cj3b/fullview.jpg


I have someone that will install it for sure.
My driveway is 600ft... I have family that relies on me.

Thanks for the responses. Still haven't decided for sure. The Timbrens should handle the extra wieght. Edited by: hoot

Hoot.


My friend has a regual cab with the boss v blade.. I know he likes the ease of putting it on and taking it off... but he is looking into a 2 inch lift because the mount sits so low on the front off the truck. He cannot go up a steep grade into a residential or commercial parking lot with out hitting..... Especially with the plow on... I think there is 4 inches of clearance with the plow on... You would have no trouble with the bigger tires... But he did have to cut hi airdam in the middle... makes his fog lights shake at highway speeds.... Hope this helps..

Yup......why buy a HD truck and put it to work?http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Confused.gif


Different strokes for different folks......putting a plow on a new truck obviously made lots of sense to mehttp://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Wink.gif


I dont understand why people need a 47k msrp(who the heck pays that anywho?) to go to the local wallyworld and they sure as hell dont need to put a chip on it(even if they are pulling a big 5er) I'm not saying anyone needs or dosnt need thier truck or making any implications about anyone. I could care less what anyone else does its thier money and thier buissnes. I do dissagree to going into a post with no intention but to stir a pot. I dont know.....maybe I missjudged you and you just clicked on the first link and ended up here, or really want to know the rational about why someone would do such a thing.....but my cynical side says you saw a post about plowing on a site littered with 47k msrp trucks and figured you would throw your 2 cents in about how it wasnt a bright idea. Sorry.....off my soapbox





Hoot, my Fisher frame is very inconspicuous. The other manufactures are pretty much the same. My truck drops close to 1.5" with the timbres and thats with a 9'6" V blade(close to 900# I believe)


I have been trying to decide the same thing.....I'm not worried about h2o but the trany getting warm though. All trucks are different.....most dielsles I have ran I ran without the cover when plowing but those were part of the fleet(powerstrokes) I am planning on trying it with the cover and if the trany starts to creep up there I will just yank it....only takes a minute. I was hoping to get the SS ones and just leave the top but I wont be getting the cold fronts since they wont fit my planned grillhttp://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Cry.gif


Here is a good site BTW http://www.snowplowing-contractors.com/forums/index.php

I'm in the same boat as Hoot, 500' of driveway. I don' like having a plow on my truck but I have to. Its not worth having another vehicle around just for that task. I use the Western UltraMount and its reasonably inconspicuous, at least I think so. The mounting setup is strong and literally takes seconds to attach or remove. Another feature that I liked was the plow is on a pivot which makes for a cleaner plowing on unlevel surfaces.

http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/uploads/Z47_1889497.tr1.jpg







Edit: to fix pic for ya,hope you don't mind ...Edited by: Mackin

thanks for the help with the cover, guess ill try it and see what happens,i plow for a living and need a dependable truck not some piece of crap.If you dont use a hd for work why own one?I can go to the store in my jeep.

stretch:


NICE shine on that truck... Had to put my sun glasses on http://www.difflock.com/discus/clipart/dance2.gif (http://www.difflock.com/cgi-bin/discus/board-image-lister.cgi?popup=1#).


Everyone - Watch those tranny temps very carefully. I know a few guys who blew their tranny's last year plowing the heavy snow we had. Then again, they were not Chevy's http://www.difflock.com/discus/clipart/bawling.gif (http://www.difflock.com/cgi-bin/discus/board-image-lister.cgi?popup=1#)

Hoot the snow plow prep package gives slightly larger torsion bars and "timbren" like bumperstoppers for the suspension. This helps. they also think that you need to put ballast behind the rear axle to lghten and change the balance load on the front axle. I turn my bars up a little in the winter because I have plowed the last two winters with a Fisher plow with "wings" giving me a width of 10' I plow a Home Depot lot with one other truck for help. Usually if it is a good snow 4" or more this involves 6 hours to 24 hours straight. I use the winter cover on the radiator part and took it off the bottom part where the tranny cooler is. The fisher minute mount is nearly inconspicous. I am attaching two photos.http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/uploads/9F3_front.jpg
http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/uploads/FZ4_front2.jpgEdited by: hoot

I'm using my old 88 gmc sierra reg cab longbed w a fisher for my plowing...thats the only thing thats hitting these salt laden streets up here..my new silverado will be in the garage til the streets are cleaned up! some friends of mine think i'm nuts!!

I've never plowed with the cover on. Engine temps never seem to get to operating temps, but they get close. Tranny temps never got above 175, usually hung around 150-160 (and that was before transynd/deep pan).


I plow with a crew cab/long bed. I'm 400-500 lbs over front axle rating with the plow on and 600 lbs ballast. I'm not too worried about it. If the frame can't take the extra weight for the little time it's on every year, it shouldn't be called a HD. It really worked on my conscious to put this truck through the abuse the first winter, but it's been the best plowing truck I've had (except for it's length). The D-Max is actually my "back-up" plow. Only used when we get hammered.


Hoot - The Fisher mount isn't too noticeable.


http://pic5.picturetrail.com/VOL72/839020/1857248/22161508.jpg

Bigger torsion bars and timbren like stops??


You must have a "special truck". No current GM truck with or without a plow package has this that I am aware of. I know my 01 3500 with plow pack had the same torsion bars and sus. stops as my 2500HD without plow pack.

Bigger torsion bars and timbren like stops??


You must have a "special truck". No current GM truck with or without a plow package has this that I am aware of. I know my 01 3500 with plow pack had the same torsion bars and sus. stops as my 2500HD without plow pack. I think he means heavier rated torsion bars Edited by: BlackZ71

OK who knows the real Plow Prep extras?

I thought it was just wiring.

Hoot.


My friend has a regual cab with the boss v blade.. I know he likes the ease of putting it on and taking it off... but he is looking into a 2 inch lift because the mount sits so low on the front off the truck. He cannot go up a steep grade into a residential or commercial parking lot with out hitting..... Especially with the plow on... I think there is 4 inches of clearance with the plow on... You would have no trouble with the bigger tires... But he did have to cut hi airdam in the middle... makes his fog lights shake at highway speeds.... Hope this helps..

My foglights aren't mounted to the airdam. They mount directly to the bumper.

Where do the Timbrens go? Pics anyone?

From what I understand, all trucks (2500HD + 3500) with the Duramax engine have the same torsion bars, with or without snow plow package. 130 amp alternator, some wiring, some extra hole somewhere, some button inside for a light?? I think that's what you get with the snow plow prep with the D-max. Someone correct me if I'm wrong. I don't have any of it, but still plow without problems. I am, however, about to do the dual alternator thing.

hoot let me guess who will install it......

Hoot.


My friend has a regual cab with the boss v blade.. I know he likes the ease of putting it on and taking it off... but he is looking into a 2 inch lift because the mount sits so low on the front off the truck. He cannot go up a steep grade into a residential or commercial parking lot with out hitting..... Especially with the plow on... I think there is 4 inches of clearance with the plow on... You would have no trouble with the bigger tires... But he did have to cut hi airdam in the middle... makes his fog lights shake at highway speeds.... Hope this helps..

My foglights aren't mounted to the airdam. They mount directly to the bumper.

Where do the Timbrens go? Pics anyone?


http://mct.truckmoxie.com/gallery/032500HD/91729.jpg

Hoot try the search feature on The Diesel Place .com (http://dieselplace.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=1880&PN=2)

Gotcha again

Mac http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/HiHi.gif http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/HiHi.gif http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/HiHi.gif Edited by: Mackin

Ratlover, not trying to start an arguement. I use my truck for work and play. Mine has been hooked to a dump trailer for a week now hauling firewood.


I live in the snow belt, and have 3 driveways to plow. I do it with 2 John Deere tractors. I understand some of the folks here have long driveways, and it is a necessity.


At our local "Big 3" dealers, their lots are full of traded in plow trucks every spring. Some of these landscapers beat the living tar out of those trucks. When you take a 4X4 in for a trade in, first thing they ask you is "Has it been used to plow snow?" If you answer yes, thousands of dollars go swirling down the drain.


I just don't see how anyone can make money plowing snow, when you consider the cost of truck, plow, truck depreciation, and at least 1 new auto transmission during the life of the truck, which is typical for a Furd, Dodge, in these here parts.

Ratlover, not trying to start an arguement. I use my truck for work and play. Mine has been hooked to a dump trailer for a week now hauling firewood.


I live in the snow belt, and have 3 driveways to plow. I do it with 2 John Deere tractors. I understand some of the folks here have long driveways, and it is a necessity.


At our local "Big 3" dealers, their lots are full of traded in plow trucks every spring. Some of these landscapers beat the living tar out of those trucks. When you take a 4X4 in for a trade in, first thing they ask you is "Has it been used to plow snow?" If you answer yes, thousands of dollars go swirling down the drain.


I just don't see how anyone can make money plowing snow, when you consider the cost of truck, plow, truck depreciation, and at least 1 new auto transmission during the life of the truck, which is typical for a Furd, Dodge, in these here parts.

There's a lot of cash in snow plowing around here. If they weren't making money.... they wouldn't be doing it. Loads of plowers running the big 3 round these parts.

How much do two JD tractors cost + the truck?
I would need a trailer on top of it.

I have a backhoe. Worst plow tractor in the world. 2wd. Bucket doesnt angle so you are just pushing snow and trying to steer that darn thing. Constantly dealing with piles instead of evenly pushing it along the sides. I can't take it to my relatives places....

I never trade my trucks.... they rob you even without it having had a plow on it. Selling it private... telling a buyer that the plow was only used mostly for personal stuff... especially when you look at my truck...not set up commercially by any means... I still would get a good buck.

Have to agree Hoot if there was no money in it nobody would be doing it.One of the main reasons I bought my truck was to be able to plow snow to make some money in the winter when things are slow.Also I was getting tiried of sitting on my no cab Kubota for 3 hrs plowing my own property every storm.Now to put a different spin on this...who would spend $40,000 on a daily driver that you can not even use to make money with unbelievablehttp://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Big Smile.gif I'm just a http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Clown.gif

I just don't see how anyone can make money plowing snow...........


Righthttp://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Ermm.gif...go on over to http://www.plowsite.com/ and ask those guys how they do ($$$) during the winter. My business is seasonal, I need income in the winter, and plowing helps tremendously.


When plowing, it's all about whose driving the truck, and preventative maintenance. Take your time, and give the truck a few extra fluid changes, and it should last a quite awhile.

Hoot, to answer your question, this is taken from gm site,


Snow plow prep package, includes 10-amp power for backup and roof emergency light, 145- amp alternator, high-flow front bumper,forward lamp wiring harness,1.65" acess hole with grommet in front of dash panel. mounting location for snowplow controls, instrument panel jumper wiring harnress for electric trailor brake controller, includes skid plate package and air cleaner,high capacity. So you see it includes a hole lot on nothing

All it includeds on a duramax is a little button by the airbag on/off switch and some preterminated wires in the roof for a blinky light that gets controlled bythe switch.


My timbrens took me all of 30 min to install. Didnt even take the tire off, just picture black round bumpstops.....they go in the same place as factory.


Not trying to start anything either. I was a bit harsh, having a bad day and today aint looking much better. Oh well such is life.


First I am a crazy bastard and actually like plowing snowhttp://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Geek.gif I dont need a truck really but I have always wanted the truck I have now. Having 2 trucks isnt really an option for me and the thought of spending many hours stright in another truck with flopping floorboards a one speaker radio and a hardly functioning heater dosnt appeal to me anymore. Must be getting oldhttp://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Confused.gif I am more productive in the kind of snow removal I do with this vehical.....I dont really get paid by the hour, I get paid by how much snow I move. Its also a write off for something I want anyway. And old truck can be productive just like a new truck can break down but I feel a new truck is more dependable than a "beater" and I would have to spend a deccent chunk of money for a old truck that is capable of pushing the kind of snow as this one. If you start with a more heavy duty truck and dont abuse the hell outa it and do plenty of PM to it it will last a long time. As long as you keep your trany temps down and come to a stop before shifting you should not be nuking tranys. A fleet of more "beater" type trucks for the goobers to drive and 1 or 2 nice newer rigs is the way to go IMO. Plus its nice PR to have a deccent looking rig. The main key to truck dependability is to not let the goobers drive and tear the hell outa the new truck http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Evil Smile.gif


A plow is like any aftermarket device......if a dealer wanted to he could raise a stink and claim that the failure was due to haing a plow on a non preped vehical. They gota prove it but still......it depends on the dealer just like anything you put on your truck. Front end parts and trany is about the only thing to worry about puking and GM aint going to warrantee your trany anytime soon are they http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Wink.gif

Hey Hoot,

That price range might be a little high. Did you check with Intercon on Meetinghouse road? I got the Meyers commercial plow for my truck there and it only ran $1900 or so. I put it on myself but installed it would have only been $2400. I do know Boss is a little more expensive but I didn't think it was that much more? I also would be glade to help you install it if you want to save a few extra bucks. My friend across the street has a lift that would make the install a lot easier. But if you don't get anything going this year don't worry about it I'll take care of the driveway for you, ofcourse if I'm plowing for the state you can just use my truck while I'm working.

Hope to see you at Joes tonight.
Poolrebel

I don't agree with you guys on putting a plow on an new HD.
Different stroxe like MAX says.

If was talking commercial plowing...than yes.. I agree.
I'm considering a plow for personal and some light side money. I have a parking lot I get $100 for everytime I scrape it. (I usually have some old beater every fall) That price will go up and I have tons of $20-$40 driveways I can hit.

I figure $3500-$4000 for the plow installed. A decent beater with a plow costs at least that plus I have to pay insurance, maint tax tags.

I here the Boss frame is pretty inconspicuous. I see plows on just about every type of 4x4 vehicle ever made. Heck I had a 62 Willys Jeep a couple of years ago with a Meyers... An 86 Full size Blazer with a full size plow. You name it... they put them on it.

I can put a plow on this but not on Diesel HEAVY DUTY HD truck?
http://www.uscom.com/~hoot/cars/cj3b/fullview.jpg


I have someone that will install it for sure.
My driveway is 600ft... I have family that relies on me.

Thanks for the responses. Still haven't decided for sure. The Timbrens should handle the extra wieght.

I got a price installed..

Boss V $4900 http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Dead.gif

8 ft straight $3900 http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Dead.gif

Intercon wanted like $4700 for a Fisher V installed

ratlover...

Why Fisher? Just wondering why you and a few others chose Fisher

Fisher has a trip blade on their V plow, that's why I chose it. I don't think Boss has a trip blade on their V yet.


Hoot, you should be able to get better prices, although I think you'll be looking at higher prices the closer to snow we get. I think I paid somewhere around $4000 for my Fisher 8'6" V installed. And if you do decide to get a plow, I would definitely get the timbrens.


Josh

I am not plowing with a D-Max but I have plowed with my truck since new. I have no plow prep as it wasn't avail on the ex-cab in 98 but same trans, frame and front end. If you know how to plow it will not abuse it. It will work it but it's a truck. There is $$$ to be made plowing so do it. My truck has more than paid for it self in the 5 years it's plowed.


An 8' MM2 is around $3200 not installed. If you can use tools the HD is a very easy install. Check out the site below. Good info and a diesel section to boot. If you want to spend the $$$ look at the Blizzard plows.


www.snowplowing-contractors.com (http://www.snowplowing-contractors.com)

I found a Fisher EZ-V for $4100 cash and carry no tax.
Is that a good deal?

If I could find a place that would install it for that I'm there. $4900 for the Boss is out of hand.Edited by: hoot

Wow I didn't know the prices were so much higher on the boss and fishers! maybe the 8 ft blade adds a lot. I got the 7.5 blade

I bought the fisher V for the same reason as Smitty. It has a trip edge instead of a full trip. Full trip vrs trip edge might be an arguable in a straight blade but a full trip will not trip on a V if its in any kind of scoop or dog leg config and dosnt really like to trip in a V pos. My dad has a 10' boss V on his 550 and I have plowed with it a bit. I didnt want my 2500hd coming to an imediate halt like happens to the 550http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Ouch.gif


Boss makes a good plow it just tends to tear itself to peices since it dosnt trip in some situations. Its worse for a comercial guy who is flying around lots and such though.


Most places get 3-4 hundered for an install or so. Its fairly easy but I dont think I would want to do it without a peice of equipment to move it around. Definatly wouldnt want to do it in a drive way.


4k installed. Thats pretty good. I think I'm paying a little over 4500 aftertaxes not installed. I think there is a 200$ difference between the 8.5 and the 9.5. While I think I could have goten a better price its good to have a close dealer that can get you back up and running in the middle of the snow. I dont mind paying for service.


The 4100 sounds like a good deal to me with no taxes and such.


Poolrebel> its the fact that they are V plows and not straight blades.

$3718.30 V cash and carry


$3344.50 8' strait cash and carry





Hoot, This is a price from a local dealer near me. I don't think tax is in that price.


Look at the Blizzard site, more productive than a V plow and expandable to 10' for light snow.

Thanks for checking Joey,

Just got a price of 3618 cash and carry. But $253 NJ state tax.

Makes it $3868 for the Fisher EZ-V cash and Carry

Installing it in the driveway shouldn't be too bad. I have a floor jack and plenty of HD jack stands. You're only installing the frame.

Poolrebel might have me hooked up with a lift http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Thumbs Up.gif Edited by: hoot

I am more talking getting the pallet off the back of your truck and then you should have a few buddies to help get the wings off the pallet and down on the floor laying flat. Or you could take the pallet apart in the truck and hand the wings down. Then you can do it by yourself no problem with normal tools. Then getting the blade from laying flat on the floor to standing up ready to mount is the part that will be fun http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Dead.gif Then its pretty easy.


You can go to fishers web site and get the manual to see what you are getting yourself into.


Words of caution. The wires that the Fishstick harness goes into is a pain to figure out. Some of the wires are hard to distinguish, things like they call for a red wire and there isnt one, just one with a yellow strip. And then the only ones I couldnt figure out(I must be color blind with thier deffinition of light blue and blue and dark blue with a strip) I swaped and had my wings going in funky directions. Not a big deal but it tweaked me off.


If you are doing a fisher I can try to help you with were i hid things and ran the wires and such. Its a pretty easy install.


Might want to do some reading on the thoughts of when to put a cutting edge on the fisher. Fisher intends for you to first wear the base edge and then stick a cutting edge on there once it gets warn so far down. This is what I will do. Some people throw a edge on it imediatly and wear em both down till they put a new cutting edge. Some wear the cutting edge till it hits the base and get a new edge(only getting 3/4" or so wear means alot of replacemnthttp://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Confused.gif) Some just wear the base edge till it needs replacemnt and replace ithttp://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Confused.gif Thats real cost effectivehttp://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Ermm.gif


Also......salt is a BIG help when plowing. It helps keep the snow from bonding to the pavement so it makes clean up easier and it saves wear and tear on your rig. Also helps dealing with hardpack. I like the idea of having them pay you extra to make your job easierhttp://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Cool.gif A tailgate spreader might be something to look at depending on what you are going to do and if your customers are willing, plus you can make a bit of $$$ on the freezing rain type events. This will also work as your balasthttp://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Cool.gif
<P

Thanks ratlover. Really doesn't sound that bad. As far as getting if out of the back of my truck... I'll borrow a friends low trailer.

Having a bobcat with forks is much easierhttp://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Tongue.gif

Or a backhoe http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Wink.gif I'd have to sling it on the bucket.

I ran my Fisher V for 1 season, then got the cutting blades. It's amazing how fast that steel wears away.http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Shocked.gif

Hoot did you get the V Plow?

Hoot did you get the V Plow?




Not yet... still studying and hoping that after I buy it nobody convinces me that I shouldn't have.

I have till Monday or Tuesday to place the order for the next shipment.

Thanks ratlover never thought about the V verse strait blade being the differance.

Hoot the offer is still open for my hands to help with the install.

Thanks ratlover never thought about the V verse strait blade being the differance.

Hoot the offer is still open for my hands to help with the install.

Thanks Jay... I let you know. Decisions...

I ended up with a Blizzard..

I like the torque box design. Light and strong.

Model 800 straight blade

http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/uploads/73A_blizzard_tb.jpg

I ended up with a Blizzard..

I like the torque box design. Light and strong.

Model 800 straight blade

http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/uploads/73A_blizzard_tb.jpg Very nice.


I'm also getting ready to install one on my truck soon

Good luck with the Blizzard, it looks like they make a heck of a plow. Plus it matches the truck! I've been shopping for a plow myself, for my driveway and a few other I've cleared in the past with my ATV, worked great. But I'm looking to plow more this year so I'm putting one on the truck. www.plowsite.com is a great website for plowing information. There are some good places online to shop. Check out www.snowplowsupply.com and www.centralparts.com.
I'm looking at a Western 8' Poly Pro with the Ultra Mount.

I also like how the ends rise higher than most standard plows.... no need for a deflector.. at least when I went to order a deflector the guy told me to save my money and if I still thought I needed it get it later.

http://www.blizzardplows.com/images/pic19a.jpg
http://www.blizzardplows.com/images/pic19b.gif
http://www.blizzardplows.com/images/pic16a.jpgEdited by: hoot

I saw you got a chance to make it over to plowsite but did you check out this board? Its newer but its pretty good....kinda a dieselplace kinda deal http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Wink.gif


http://www.snowplowing-contractors.com/forums/index.php


Didnt spring the extra $$$ for a the 8611? For the limited work it sounds like you are doing a V or a winged blizzard seems like a waste.


Take some pics http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Big Smile.gif

Didnt spring the extra $$$ for a the 8611? For the limited work it sounds like you are doing a V or a winged blizzard seems like a waste.


Take some pics http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Big Smile.gif

Philip,

I came to my senses. I figure at 750 lbs this Blizzard is plenty heavy enough. The 8611 weighs 1360 lbs.... forget that. The 810 PowerPlow weighs 950... more than the V's.
I don't want a heavy plow for the limited work I do.

Check out this video... this plow is really designed well. From the looks of the framework, it doesn't seem to be as vulnerable as the other designs to bottoming. Notice in the first few frames of the video.... making it 2X size helps, how high the plow is before it's lowered.

Video (http://www.blizzardplows.com/qtime-movies2/800-strbld.mov)Edited by: hoot

You wouldn't need the 8611 plow, too big. A friend of mine just put a Blizzard 810 on his 03 HD, (of coarse it's white too!) he said the first time he hooked it up with the "power hitch" it worked perfect, the holes lined up PERFECT for the pins. He was impressed. Definately a heavy unit The specs put it at 950 lbs. 200 more than yours. he's got $4500 into it, and that's installing it himself.

They're not easy to get this time of year. They are made to order.

Well I made a small last minute change.

Nixed the Blizzard and ordered a Fisher EZ-V.

I think you'll be very happy with it. http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Clap.gif


Josh

Now all you guys with the EZ-V.... tell me what ya think about how the truck holds it up. I hear there's only a few inches under the ends of the blade when it's up.

What about transporting... a real pain? What happens when you hit bumps?

Is the truck frame holding up well. I notice the EZ-V for the GM HD doesn't have much of a peculiar frame... no frame at all. No cross members.

I'm not changing my mind again.. got $400 cash down on it. Should get it in about a week or two depending on which truckload it comes on.

Why go with the V?

I originally wanted it thinking how long my truck is. I think it could make a difference in turning in tight spots while holding the snow.

I also decided that for service and resale I'd rather have a big name plow. After seeing the Fishers in person at the dealer.... they do look very well made. I also heard alot of good things about Fisher hydraulics... they say they have them down pretty good with few control problems.

The final was the price... only a few hundred more than the Blizzard straight. A nice size straight blade is over $3000. I got the distributor price on the EZ-V... $3615.

If down the road I ever want to sell it... I'm sure it will be an easy sell.

It's more than I need but I got it cause the deal is good and it will give me versatility. We'll see. I let you all know when we get the first snow.Edited by: hoot

These plow people must hate me....

Made another last minute change. In my research I swayed towards the Western MVP. It has a few features I like better than the Fisher EZ-V even though they are basically the same plow.

I like the Western Ultramount because it incorporates what they call a "pivot bar"... it swivels when hooking up and allows the plow to tilt to help it lay flush to the ground. It also helps align the mounting pins. This would also help if the ends hit something while transporting. The pins are permanant. They are engaged by hooks so there are no holes to align.

http://www.westernplows.com/img/products/ultramount/western.gif

The Western MVP also comes with the snow deflector standard ($140 Fisher option). It has a positive stop setup for the wings that the EZ-V does not have. The reciever plates are easily removable.


http://www.westernplows.com/img/products/ultramount/bracket.gif


I got a price shipped out of IL to NJ of $3733.
That's $100 cheaper than the EZ-V (after tax) and comes with the snow deflector which normally costs about $140 more. I'm done changing. The Western goes out this week....

Edited by: hoot

Hoot! I can't keep up... Too funny! I go thru the same thing on everything I buy. I haven't got my western ordered yet, probably next week. Where did you end up buying it from? Good luck with your new plow.

Hookem

It's too late for me to change now.... shipping out TODAY and will be here by the end of the week. Faster and cheaper than anything local.

I purchased from www.snowplowsupply.com (http://www.snowplowsupply.com/)

Incredible pricing, everything in stock and no tax to NJ.

Western 8.5 MVP UltraMount
$3445
$288.57 shipping
$3733.57 total

I had $3837 into the Fisher EZ-V with no snow deflectors.
The Western is a tad heavier and I believe a little more solidly built. I find it interesting that the Western and Fisher are basically the same plow but the frames and mounts are unique.Edited by: hoot

Hoot,

Well at least you didn't go with a STRAIGHT Blizzard. Thats like saying you got a 'Vette, and we find out you got a CheVETTE!!! Straight blades are good for ONE thing....Plowing roads. V's and Scoops are SO much more versatile.

Once you go to a V or SCOOP, you'll NEVER, EVER go back to a straight blade. And to see people just skip by a V or scoop because they're a grand or so more money makes me cringe. You'll save SO much more time, it really is unbelievable.

I have a Boss 8.2 V and like everything about it except the way it trips, or lack thereof. http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Disapprove.gif http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Disapprove.gif
The hydraulics on the Fisher and Western are almost half as slow as the BOSS. Time is money. Also the BOSS V's and scoops at greater angles. But they (Western MVP/Fisher) DO have a V-plow that trips properly in every position.

Good luck with your purchase. Whatever that may end up being!! http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Approve.gif

Saw you over there Tom.

Really.... The guy called me back later in the afternoon. It's on a truck as we speak.... I can't change my mind now http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Cry.gif He said it will take two days. Took a week to get a 4lb box of Timbrens but two days to get 1000#s of plow from IL. I can't believe Timbren charges $150 for those two dinky pieces of rubber. Must be some real special rubber.
The price was right on the Western.

The Boss around here was real expensive. I was leary of the spring return wings and "Smartlock" cylinders. I like the cylinder lift though. How does the plow raise up over a snow pile with the cylinder as opposed to a chain? Just curious? In the frame design?

A full moldboard trip on the Boss V must be a real jolt. That's the other thing I was leary of. Over all it looks like you guys like them though. The lights are nice too. I have a Boss dealer right up the road. $4500 cash and carry was way overboard. I saved like $750 with this deal.
Edited by: hoot

Hoot,

My Boss is an older 1994 RT-II model. One of the first years for the dual lift cylinder. It is VERY quick, and it stacks snow HIGH. Higher than a Fisher/Western. Clears up and over curbs well. The previous version to mine was a dual chain lift. I really like the way a solid cylinder lift travels vs. a chain lift. Much more stable. I paid $2960.00 for it back then. I realize that they are higher now, but it is close to 10 years later. I installed the plow by myself, that included removing a Meyer mount. Things can get heavy, so have another set of hands ready during a few critical steps.

BOSS's spring returns are what I like over the slow cylinders that others use. I am using ALL my original springs, no problems. I don't have the Smartlock's. I don't do all that much backdragging, mainly because a V-Plow's center pivot weldment prevents the plow from "getting to the bottom" and I believe allows it to float back up while reversing. This is minor, but in my Meyer trucks, backdragging works(ed) WAY better. In REAL heavy snow, the wings will drift out a bit on a backdrag, and I guess this is what the Smartlock prevents. I heard that there are other drawbacks to the Smartlocks though, besides the rediculous price.

Trip comes into play when plowing roads (which I used to do with it), the BOSS has NO ability to trip over raised manhole covers whatsoever. But is real nice when pushing up to a curb, nudging it, springing back gently, raising the plow and pushing past the curb. Try this with a Fisher trip, and any object higher than the hinge point of the tripedge and your going to eat the windshield. Best would be a combo of both tripedge with full trip.

I never tried Timbrens.

My next plow will either be a BOSS or a Blizzard.

I read in the Western/Fisher data that the hydraulics have relief valves in case of a hard hit to help ease the jolt if you hit something high. No way those skinny lines can let fluid move that fast though. Also the Western A Frame has been redesigned. Supposedly much stronger... but heavier.

I'm not plowing commercial... just some residential and a couple of lots. Just wanted the versatility. Who knows... might lead on to more plowing.

Hoot you were worse then a chick shopping for shoes on this decision !!!!!!! http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/HiHi.gif

Good luck with your new plow ..... Probably get no snow this year ,happened to me when I bought my snowblower,the first year ....

Mac http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Big Smile.gif

WE WANT SNOW!! WE WANT SNOW!! And lots of it too!!!!!

Hoot you were worse then a chick shopping for shoes on this decision !!!!!!! http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/HiHi.gif

Good luck with your new plow ..... Probably get no snow this year ,happened to me when I bought my snowblower,the first year ....

Mac http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Big Smile.gif http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Clap.gif

Mac and Pool Rebel....

Yea I bought a brand new used snow blower from a guy that bought it after a really big snow year. After that we hardly got any snow for two years. I got a great deal on it. It's amazing how much work a decent size snow blower can do. It's not amazing how much I can do http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Embarrased.gif

Pool Rebel.... I should have the plow in a day or two. I realize we're close to Christmas so I hate to take you away from the bustle of shopping http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/HiHi.gif If you're available anytime this rainy weekend I could probably use an extra hand. I'll let you know. It'll be on a low trailer so I may be alright.

Wait SNOW at least for a few days!

Hoot just give me a shout. I'm available Thursday to Saterday and possibly sunday if need be. If I get a chance I'll stop by the sound booth Wednesday night to chat with ya.

Pool Rebel

The weather man said it might snow sunday! YEEEEE HAAAAAA!

It snowed in Mass today and the plow is being installed on thursday http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Big Smile.gif

We had a few good squalls today.... even some on the ground in Jersey this morning.

If you need help on the install Hoot...I'll come down on the weekend.

Pics of the EZV on 3500 GMChttp://www.dieselplace.com/forum/uploads/176_ezvplows.JPG

Looks great Grady. I see you are all ready... signs... blinking light, CB, curb feelers http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Thumbs Up.gif

Maybe you'll get a new motor in the other one.

Thanks for the offer. Unless you really want to I'm sure I'll be OK. I got poolrebel close by. You do have experience with the same plow though even though mines a Western it's almost identical.

Also it's gonna be a real bad day if the weather guys got it right on Saturday. Possible full blown NorEaster.Edited by: hoot

Got it today! Snapped the tailgate cables putting it in my truck.

WANT PICTURES!!!!

Boxes piled in the garage and plow halves are laying in the driveway.

Hoot,
Please keep us posted on how the Western installs...

Thanks,

Hookem

Whoa what a job. I had the big parts assembled last night along with the brackets done on the truck. No biggy.

poolrebel stopped over and helped me out today. He has a plow. He went to leave and plow a friends driveway and the shift indicator started going all over the place... truck was acting up, banging gears, changing gears. Check engine light came on. (01 Dmax Ally).

I said "Not to worry Jay" I already have you diagnosed and we'll fix it today. Ran out and picked up two NSBU switches. One for me just in case. $111 each.

Put it in and away he went.

Tonight i'm still playing around with the plow doing the elctrical on the plow. I still haven't touched the electrical on the truck although that seems relatively easy. I'm anal and grease anything that moves. I also dip all hardware in diesel fuel before installing. A little future corrosion resistance.

No problems with the parts fitting or instructions. Western does a nice job in that respect. Never had to drill out any holes or cut anything.... well the apron will get cut later.

What a plow. It's massive. poolrebels truck handles the his 7 1/2 Meyers almost like it's not there. I figure this plow is a bit heavier but others have said no problem.

Did I mention my 4x4 isn't working? I hear the t-case shifting but the light still blinks. I think there is something up with the front actuator. Either the body shop did something or the actuator went. I checked the one fuse on the side of the dash. Ok. I checked all connectors.. what I could see... ok.

Tommorrow i'll do some meter work. See if I got juice at the actuator.

They told me this plow was a big job... they weren't kidding. They said they take 10-12 hrs themselves.

Grady.... Thanks for offering your advise... How long did it take you?


This was last night... Today that's all snowy... we're in a NorEaster... 4-8 inches.
http://www.uscom.com/~hoot/cars/duramax/gmc/plow/nightinstall.jpgEdited by: hoot

Hey Hoot, I have to go into work tonight at 11Pm. I'll be working till the end of the storm. I'll pop buy and check on your progress when I'm done. Thanks a million for the quick fix up too. http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Clap.gifWith any luck you'll have a clean drive way before I get there. I think you will be surprised at how much plowing you can do in 2 wheel. I'll tell you about that later. It's time for my 20 minute power nap before work.

Hey Hoot, I have to go into work tonight at 11Pm. I'll be working till the end of the storm. I'll pop buy and check on your progress when I'm done. Thanks a million for the quick fix up too. http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Clap.gifWith any luck you'll have a clean drive way before I get there. I think you will be surprised at how much plowing you can do in 2 wheel. I'll tell you about that later. It's time for my 20 minute power nap before work.

Thanks for helping out poolrebel. Plow is done but i didn't get to the electrical in the truck. Tommorrow.

http://www.uscom.com/~hoot/cars/duramax/gmc/plow/back.jpg
http://www.uscom.com/~hoot/cars/duramax/gmc/plow/front1.jpg
http://www.uscom.com/~hoot/cars/duramax/gmc/plow/frame.jpg
http://www.uscom.com/~hoot/cars/duramax/gmc/plow/pump.jpg

Hurry up Hoot. Everything will be all plowed by the time you get it done!

Missed out on this one. I can't rush these things. Afraid i might screw something up.
It will definately be ready for the next one. Had it mounted today. Seems to hold the weight quite well. I'll tell you what.. this is one very well designed and heavy duty plow!

So where are the pics of it hooked up? Um, thats ok I'll get to see it live one of these dayshttp://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Clap.gif. Does this mean I can't plow your driveway anymore http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Cry.gif

So where are the pics of it hooked up? Um, thats ok I'll get to see it live one of these dayshttp://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Clap.gif. Does this mean I can't plow your driveway anymore http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Cry.gif

Jay.. I hooked up for the first time at about 9 pm and cold. Hooked up the plugs and had nothing at the controller.

Looked under the hood and found one wire I forgot to connect. That took care of that..... lights still not working.

thanks for calling me hoot ive only installed a few... haha... at least ya got it hooked up.... need any help with electric i can do a full plow install.... meyers md2 on a ford in 4 hours....

Bummer on the lights. I'm sure it is something real simple like a fuse or it's not making a good conection in the controler?

Edited by: PoolRebel

hoot remember the headlight harness and grab a test light..... should be... at least in my experience...

I was just bustin ya. It sure looks like a nice rig. Never had any plowing experience myself. Didn't know they were that complicated.

The lights work fine through the plow system when it's unplugged. (It still goes through the plow harness)

Bummer...
I hope they sent you the correct headlamp harness, 01-02 is #8437, 03-04 is #27780. Looks like quite the plow.

Hookem

That's the right one! #8437


chevmiester,

Have you ever installed a Fisher Isolation Module type harness in an 01 GM? That's where I really needed the help. I know you would have stopped by if I called. I'm sure you were busy too.

Thanks everybody for offering and helping! Edited by: hoot

Got the answer for my lights....

I spliced into the wrong wire for the parking lights. Guy told me that is what activates the relay that turns the plow lights on. Easy fix.

Good job Hoot....Lets see some pics....What was estimated time of total install?

It seems the Kennedy harness creates an issue with the plow lights. As it stands, they only come on when I put the high beams on. I don't believe the KD harness is designed for a single beam system. I don't think these sealed beams should have hi-low on at the same time like the KD harness does. I'm not dissing the harness at all. It's a compatibility thing. I'll have to try disabling the 4 light high by flippin the diode.

Which brings me to the question... does my plow have hi-low headlights? I imagine it does.

I drove to the Depot last night with it on. Truck handles th extra 900+ lbs up front quite well. Sure makes it easy to break the tires loose without ballast though.

How long? All estimates. I didn't keep good track of my time.

Friday probably 10-12 hrs
Sat maybe 8 Then a few more misc.
Looks like about 24 hrs. That's about double the install estimate.

None of it was terribly hard. Just a lot of steps. There were no missing parts or hardware. All of the hardware is top notch cad plated with nylock nuts all over. Everything fit together perfectly. Very well designed. Instructions could use some work. They need to be a bit more organized with a few more illustrations.
Once I had it all together electrically it fired right up after finding one wire not connected and the parking light wrong connection. All my fault.

Gradyghost,

Do the wings on your plow stay pretty much in unison or do you always need to fool with them. I know when I put mine in full V one side usually gets there before the other.

Also, to get it straight without physically walking out front, what is your method? I think if you pull one all the way back and the other all the way forward, then switch to straight mode?
Edited by: hoot

Hoot,


When you go full V one side DOES get there faster.....donno why.


To get it straight again....I just play with the button till its straight.


All normal.


Yes the sealed beams have high and low beams.


Put ballast in before you drive with plow again...imho its safer for braking and traction...duh


I carry an extra relay coil....

I installed my KD harness after my plow was installed. I forget the specifics of the install, but my truck lights stay on when the plow lights are turned on (normally truck lights will not turn on when plow is connected and lights are on).


Hoot - on my Fisher EZ-V 8'6", I have to occasionally bring one wing forward a bit to get them straight again. Usually happens when plowing heavy snow, or hitting a big drift with one half of the plow. Not really a big hassle. You'll be a pro at that controller after one storm. I plowed this past storm in another truck with a straight blade, and wished the whole time I had my D-Max with the V-plow. Took me a bit longer to do things, but doesn't matter much to me since I get paid by the hour anyway. http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Big Smile.gif

Smitty... you using the Fisher Isolation system system on the one with the KD harness? On an 02 HD?

Gradyghost... which relay? The big one that runs the pump?

I know the wings have a pressure relief incase you hit something. Maybe that's why you lose position once in a while. Sounds like our plows all have similar characteristics.

Smitty... you using the Fisher Isolation system system on the one with the KD harness? On an 02 HD?


Yep...I believe I am. Like I said, I'm not sure of the specifics. I didn't install my plow/electrical stuff. But when I installed the KD harness, I remember something being funny.

Smitty, you know if you have the isolation system if

1) You knew the lights would switch when you plugged the plow plugs in. That's how the isolation system works.

2) There is a unit under the hood with four big harnesses plugged into it. No external relays except for the big motor relay.

I think I see what could have occurred. The KD harness was installed as if the existing isolation harness was factory. I'll have to look at this a little closer.

Do the high and low beams work on the plow lights?Edited by: hoot

Yep - A black box with four weatherpack connectors plugged into it. I think you're on the right track with the "KD harness was installed as if the existing isolation harness was factory." That seems to make sense to me. And yes, both high and low beams work on the plow lights. I could look at it more closely tomorrow if you would like, maybe take a few pics....? Let me know.

Yep - A black box with four weatherpack connectors plugged into it. I think you're on the right track with the "<font color="red">KD harness was installed as if the existing isolation harness was factory</font>." That seems to make sense to me. And yes, both high and low beams work on the plow lights. I could look at it more closely tomorrow if you would like, maybe take a few pics....? Let me know.

Sounds like we're on to something interesting here. Do you have the KD harness set up to turn all four truck lights on when on high?

Sounds like we're on to something interesting here. Do you have the KD harness set up to turn all four truck lights on when on high?


Yes.

Smitty,

What happens when you hit the highs? All four on the truck and what about the plow lights? Do both high and low filaments fire up in the sealed beams?

I installed the plow wiring first then put the KD wiring between the new headlight wires and the headlights. The truck low beams work with the high beams but the plow lights are isolated. I just left well alone since it worked on the first try.
I am curious if the KD relays could run low and highs together on the plow also.

John

I installed the plow wiring first then put the KD wiring between the new headlight wires and the headlights. The truck low beams work with the high beams but the plow lights are isolated. I just left well alone since it worked on the first try.
I am curious if the KD relays could run low and highs together on the plow also.

John

Welcome John.
Thanks for your reply.
For some reason I don't think it's a good idea to have a singled sealed beam hi/low headlight to have both filaments burning at the same time. If it's even possible to do?

Smitty,

What happens when you hit the highs? All four on the truck and what about the plow lights? Do both high and low filaments fire up in the sealed beams?


All four on the truck, and it appears as the low and high beam lights on the plow work as they should. Tried to look at the wiring tonight and got myself confused. It's been two years since I installed the KD harness, and don't remember too many details. Wiring around the headlights looked sloppy to me (I was probably rushing), and I'm going to try to clean it up sometime soon. Maybe then I'll have some better details on how things are hooked up. I do know that it's been this way for many, many hours plowing, and I haven't had any problems whatsoever.

Smitty... thanks for your answers. You have been very helpful. I just may try your route.

Hey Hoot

If you wan't I'd be willing to stop by tonight on my way to pool to help you figure your lights out.

I'll be home after 5:00 figuring out my 4x4 problem first. Stop by if you aren't doing anything.

Woo Hoo More snow on the way. Saterday night into sunday.

Woo Hoo More snow on the way. Saterday night into sunday.

Won't get the new harness till next week so it looks like a temp repair will have to do. You know it figures. I started looking and pricing plows a couple of weeks ago when there was no sign of snow.

I get the plow weeks earlier than I originally expected and I still couldn't get it together.

Now here comes again and I'm hustling.

Looks like the motor crushed the 4WD harness onto the front differential. Two wires were completely severed and one was crushed. Probably the motor mounts compressed at the same time the front suspension compressed to overtravel. Man that tree slammed hard. There isn't a lot of space between the oil pan and the differential....

http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/uploads/B6Z_harness2.jpg


I spliced them back together with soldered furrels and shrink tube. I don't see the need to replace the harness now.

Here's the damage...

http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/uploads/BCB_harness.jpg

4x4 is now back in service!





Edited by: hoot

Glad you got the 4X4 going hoot.


Would be nice if you could get the Kd wireing harness to work on plow lights.


I figured out why my lights vibrated....I had the metal mounts upsidedown. Now they are tight and don't move anymore.


Make sure you got ballast before you go out plowing. Did you adjust torsion bars and install timbrens? Can't remember if you said so already and I am too lazy to scroll up.

Sounds good Mike. Got the ballast in tonight.... all 600lbs. I used sand tubes from Home Depot. 60lbs each. $25 total.

Bars are up. Timbrens not in yet.

Too busy with other things right now. Xmax tree going up tonight.Edited by: hoot

Hoot


Do you have a way of keeping the sand dry, plastic container etc.It sure is nice to have traction sand when you need it and not something hard as a rock after soaked with water than frozen doing 90 miles a hour in your box when stopping fasthttp://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Cry.gif

Hoot


Do you have a way of keeping the sand dry, plastic container etc.It sure is nice to have traction sand when you need it and not something hard as a rock after soaked with water than frozen doing 90 miles a hour in your box when stopping fasthttp://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Cry.gif

These are newer style sand tubes. They are in heavy plastic bags. Get them at Home Depot. They're specifically designed to be used as ballast.

http://www.uscom.com/~hoot/cars/duramax/gmc/plow/frontfull.jpg

http://www.uscom.com/~hoot/cars/duramax/gmc/plow/hitchside.jpg

Hoot


Plow looks great on you truck! Must feel good to use it after what you went through to get it set up. What type of harness are you waiting on? Would you expect a problem with the OEM harness? I hope you get a butt load of snow now that you are set up.http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Approve.gif


Mike

GOT SNOW?http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/uploads/A9E_1000ftdrivway.JPG

Hoot


Plow looks great on you truck! Must feel good to use it after what you went through to get it set up. What type of harness are you waiting on? Would you expect a problem with the OEM harness? I hope you get a butt load of snow now that you are set up.http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Approve.gif


Mike

Thanks for the complements Mike.

The factory harness that connects to the front axle 4x4 actuator. It got crushed when the tree fell on it. Body shop missed it cause it was Sept and the damage was hidden.

The way I repaired the harness I won't need a new one. Plow works great. I still need to install the Timbren rubber and play with the Kennedy Headlight harness setup so the lights are a little more versatile.

GOT SNOW?

Was that today Grady?!!!

Yup 2 hours ago!

We hardly got anything. Rained pretty much all day.

The roads here are a mess. Dot and local town trucks are waiting till it stops snowing before they head out! (budget probs I guess)


We got at least 6 inches here...now its sleating....


I am heading back out at midnight to do all the commercial lots before they open tomorrow.


Truck looks nice. You might have too much ballast. Do you have bilsteins?


I gotta get that rubber snow deflector for the top of my plow.


Did your fishstick come with a mount for in the cab?

Why do you think I might have too much ballast? Bilsteins? Yes

They call for 600lbs but you may be right. I have close to 200lbs in propane+tank. It's also a crew cab. Maybe I'll take 200 off.

Fishstick came with a little triangular bracket with mounting holes. I'll take a pic. Not using it. Too soon to decide where to mount it. It's pretty easy to hold in the right hand and shift.Edited by: hoot

[QUOTE=hoot]Why do you think I might have too much ballast?


It just looks a little heavy in the rear. You might be on a hill or something. When you lift the plow does the front end drop more than an inch?

http://www.uscom.com/~hoot/cars/duramax/gmc/plow/fish_brkt.jpg

I haven't measured the drop but it look like a good inch.Edited by: hoot

Hoot


I should have been more specific about the harness. I was refering to the headlight harness. Sorry that was farther back in the thread before you mentioned the crushed 4x4 harness.


Bummer on the rain. There is nothing worse than sleet/freezing rain (aka sleezy rain) or rain after snowhttp://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Disapprove.gif. You can't plow that stuff.


Mike

Hoot


I should have been more specific about the harness.* I was refering to the headlight harness.* Sorry that was farther back in the thread before you mentioned the crushed 4x4 harness.**


Bummer on the rain.**There is nothing worse than sleet/freezing rain (aka sleezy rain) or rain after snowhttp://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Disapprove.gif.* You can't plow that stuff.


Mike

The Rain definitely sucks!!!! I was up and ready to go this morning too. It started sleeting about 10:30 and by 10:45 it was all rain. At least I got a little bit of play time though.

Why buy a Duramax???
http://webpages.charter.net/m.dickson/untitled.bmp

Nice.... But can it handle this? He's standing on the roof of his house http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Shocked.gif http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Shocked.gif



http://www.plowsite.com/attach/4/2011.jpg

OK who knows the real Plow Prep extras?

I thought it was just wiring.


this is what i found trying to build my same truck with the snow prep.


includes 10 amp power for backup and roof emergency light, 145-amp


alternator, high-flow front bumper, forward lamp wiring harness, 1.65


access hole with grommet in front of dash panel, mounting location for snow ploy controls, includes skid plates package asnd air cleaner, high capacity..............$310.00

Finally got a few plow days in. Today we had 4-5 inches. I do a few lots and friends and relatives.

All I can say is this truck does it with no effort whatsoever. The beauty of it is if you take your time, you're hardly working it.

The "V" is the deal. Like everybody says, you use that mode the most.

Found a place for the controller. Stuffed between the drivers seat and the center seat. Seat cushions hold it in place.

I am still sticking my fishstick up in the domelight console.


I do not think there is a place to drill holes for the triangular bracket in the dash.

They're talking another 5-10 tommorrow night Gradyghost.

Yehaaa!


I love snow....


Got fuel, all lubed up, tools, extra parts....I am all set...


Bring it on!


Had 3 inches today and its still snowing.


Got my ballast bumped up to 800 lbs...gonna try 1200 tomorrow.

I did notice it could use a few more sand tubes. Not bad though the way she sits.

Yea I love the sand tubes....They are rapped in plastic so they won't get wet and freeze. They don't slide around if I have to hit brakes hard. And When I have to spread salt and sand I just use em and then replace.

Grady,Hoot


Notice any differance in shifting in/out 4 wheel drive with the counter weight on or off.

Yeeeeeeee Haaaaaaaaaaaa More Snow More Snow More Snow!!!! I got 21 Hours in plowing for the state sunday into monday. Got home and took care of everyone else who didn't get cleaned up before I got home. Now I'm waiting to for my call to go back in for tonight into tomorrow http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Cool.gif. Hoot You are right about the truck not working at all pushing the snow but that stuff was light. just wait till we get a heavy wet snow and see how well it does. I think you'll be surprised with that too.

Yeah, this has been New England or Midwest snow we've been getting. I want a nice wet 4-6" SE-PA snow. They roll a LOT better, and stack nice too. Just that the wet ones aren't back friendly when shoveling!

Grady,Hoot


Notice any differance in shifting in/out 4 wheel drive with the counter weight on or off.

I have push button. I don't notice anything different. I do give the drivetrain some slack right after I hit the button so things shift easy. Weight or no weight.

Hoot,


Do you have any ideas on what your axle weights are with your plows on and ballast in? I am seriously considering the same setup that you have in the same truck. I know that it will be overweight on the front axle, but do I want to know how much overweight??? It sure doesn't sound like you have any regrets, huh?


Let us know if you get a chance.... Thanks.

Speaking of snow plowing, I was up early this morning shoveling a large pile of frozen precipitation at work when I saw a Tahoe drive by with a plow and some very cool amber lights.


No bar or bubble on the roof, all the strobes were in the turn signals, kinda like a cop car or fire truck, the tahoe was clearly a "tuner" all blacked out with tinted everything and nice wheels. Up to its butt in Syracuse snow!


At least HE had a plow, the plow guy was late so I broke out the shovels.


Anyway, looked like a very cool way to have amber strobes and not wreck the look of a nice vehicle.


Anyone ever seen these? Probably pricey.....but cool

403turbo, you can get a decent set of strobes through ebay. I have the setup on my old k5 blazer. All 4 corners, pwr supply, and cables cost me about $250. Still can't decide whether or not to drill holes in the housings on my new truck. I may just go with a dash strobe. Most of these kits come with white tubes unless you order through gall's or some other distributor. You can buy replacement tubes in several colors though. Or you could just install the strobe tubes in your parking light housings and they will be amber.


On edit: I just looked on ebay and found a decent 4 strobe, 60 watt system for $150.Edited by: flhrciblueice

Hoot,


Do you have any ideas on what your axle weights are with your plows on and ballast in? I am seriously considering the same setup that you have in the same truck. I know that it will be overweight on the front axle, but do I want to know how much overweight??? It sure doesn't sound like you have any regrets, huh?


Let us know if you get a chance.... Thanks.




No I didn't run the numbers but was told they don't spec the crew cab because it has the potential of having six passengers.

Truck handles it well. No regrets at all. The "V" is awesome.

Thanks. When I would plow it would be myself and maybe a dog that wanted to come along for the ride. The plow would be off if I was using it in butt-hauling mode.


Speaking of that, how easy to remove and hookup. Is it really a pain to line it up when coming up to it? The connections look simple, but always dropping off the plow after done plowing may be a pain? Am I all wet?


MN.

The Western Ultramount is by far the industries ULTIMATE hookup.

I can hook up on 30 seconds... no exxageration.

These removable guides have huge tapered entry holes.
http://www.westernplows.com/img/products/ultramount/bracket.gif

There are NO pins to line up. Just aim, drive in and raise the clamping hooks. Plug it in and go.

http://www.westernplows.com/img/products/ultramount/hook.gif