Extending the V-Plow: A Practical Guide for More Efficiency in Snow Removal

[MikePhua]

When winter weather hits, the effectiveness of snow removal equipment becomes critical. One of the most commonly used tools for clearing large areas of snow, particularly on highways and parking lots, is the V-plow. Its ability to push snow off to the sides, especially during heavy snowfalls, makes it a favorite among snow removal professionals. However, as with any tool, there's always room for improvement. Extending a V-plow by an additional 3 feet, for example, can significantly enhance its efficiency and coverage.
The Case for Extending the V-Plow
A V-plow’s primary function is to clear snow quickly and efficiently, directing it to either side of the vehicle. However, the width of the plow can sometimes limit its effectiveness, particularly in situations where large areas need to be cleared quickly, or during particularly heavy snowfalls. By extending the V-plow by an additional 3 feet, operators can clear a wider path, reducing the time it takes to cover a given area and increasing overall productivity.
The benefits of this modification are especially evident when working in large open spaces, such as airport runways, highways, and expansive parking lots, where speed and efficiency are crucial. A wider plow allows for fewer passes, reducing wear on the vehicle and improving the speed of snow removal.
Challenges in Extending the V-Plow
While the idea of extending a V-plow sounds appealing, it comes with several considerations and challenges. Extending the blade adds weight, which can place more strain on the truck or equipment. This added weight can affect the plow’s balance and control, making it more challenging to maneuver, especially in tight spaces or when navigating obstacles like curbs and guardrails.
Additionally, the extended plow will require more power from the vehicle’s hydraulics and drive system. If the vehicle is not equipped to handle the added load, the hydraulics may struggle to lift and lower the extended plow properly, leading to faster wear and potential mechanical failure. It’s also important to account for the increased stress on the vehicle’s suspension and drivetrain, which may require additional modifications or reinforcements.
How to Safely Extend a V-Plow
Before embarking on extending the V-plow, it is essential to ensure that the vehicle can handle the added weight and stress. Here are a few key considerations and steps involved in the process:

1. Assess the Vehicle’s Capacity: First, determine whether the vehicle’s hydraulics, suspension, and drivetrain can support the additional width and weight. You may need to upgrade certain components, such as the hydraulic system or suspension, to ensure the truck can handle the extended plow safely.
   
2. Select the Right Materials: The extension should be made from durable materials capable of withstanding the harsh conditions associated with snow removal. Steel or high-strength aluminum are common choices, as they are both strong and resistant to corrosion. However, the added weight of these materials must be factored into the overall design.
   
3. Design the Extension: The extension must be designed to fit securely onto the existing V-plow. This involves considering the attachment points and ensuring that the extension does not affect the plow’s ability to function as intended. It should not interfere with the angle adjustment of the V-blade, nor should it compromise the structural integrity of the plow.
   
4. Hydraulic Considerations: Modifying the plow’s size may require adjustments to the hydraulic system to accommodate the additional weight and resistance. This might include installing larger hydraulic cylinders or upgrading the existing ones for better lifting and control capabilities.
   
5. Testing and Calibration: Once the extension is installed, it’s essential to test the plow in real-world conditions to ensure it works as expected. Adjustments to the angle, lifting mechanism, and hydraulic pressure may be necessary to optimize performance. It’s also important to test the vehicle's handling to ensure it remains stable and responsive when using the extended plow.
   

Real-World Examples and Benefits
The decision to extend a V-plow isn’t one that’s taken lightly, but it can provide significant advantages in snow removal operations. In many cases, municipalities or contractors working in large urban areas or rural stretches of road will modify their plows to improve efficiency. For example, contractors working at airports, where snow needs to be cleared from expansive runways quickly, have long recognized the value of wider plows. A 3-foot extension can dramatically speed up the process, clearing snow in fewer passes and reducing fuel consumption.
Likewise, municipalities managing large parking lots or city streets can benefit from the extra width. In some cases, plow extensions have been credited with reducing overall snow removal time by up to 30%, allowing for quicker service and less disruption during heavy snowstorms.
Another advantage of extending the plow is the ability to handle heavier snowfalls. In areas that experience high snow volumes, such as the Northeast United States or parts of Canada, the ability to clear a wider path in one pass is invaluable. Extended V-plows can handle the increased snow volume without clogging or becoming bogged down, which is common with narrower plows.
Safety Considerations
When considering a V-plow extension, safety must be the top priority. A wider plow can obstruct visibility and make it more difficult to maneuver in tight spaces. Additionally, the additional weight and size can alter the plow’s handling characteristics, so operators must be trained to adjust to the changes. Ensuring that the plow is securely fastened and properly calibrated is critical to preventing accidents and ensuring that the plow functions as intended.
Operators should also be aware of the potential for increased wear and tear on the vehicle and plow components. Regular maintenance checks should be performed to monitor the condition of the suspension, hydraulics, and drivetrain to prevent failures and extend the life of the equipment.
Conclusion: Enhancing Efficiency with Proper Modifications
Extending the V-plow by 3 feet is a modification that can bring significant improvements in efficiency and snow removal capacity. However, it is not without challenges and considerations, including the added weight and stress on the vehicle. When done properly, though, this modification can help contractors and municipalities clear snow more quickly, reduce operational costs, and improve overall service levels.
As with any modification to heavy equipment, it is essential to ensure that the vehicle is capable of supporting the extended plow and that the plow itself is designed to work safely and effectively. With the right approach, extending the V-plow can be a valuable tool in the arsenal of snow removal professionals working to combat the challenges of winter weather.