Snow Plowing with a Motor Grader: Practical Techniques for New Operators

[MikePhua]

Introduction: Learning the Art of Winter Road Maintenance
Operating a motor grader for snow removal is a skill that blends mechanical finesse with terrain awareness. For new operators, especially in northern climates like Wisconsin or Canada, mastering the grader’s moldboard, wing, and traction systems is essential for keeping roads safe and passable. This guide distills field-tested advice from seasoned operators, covering everything from blade float settings to chain configurations and drift management.
Understanding the Equipment Setup
Typical rural snow removal fleets include:

• A motor grader (e.g., John Deere 770 or 672G) with moldboard and wing
  
• A dump truck with front plow and wing
  
• V-plow attachment for deep drifts
  
• Tire chains for improved traction
  
• Heated shop for overnight storage and maintenance
  

Each machine has its strengths. While dump trucks offer speed, graders provide precision and visibility—especially when clearing tight corners, intersections, and gravel roads.
Terminology Clarification
- Moldboard (MB): The main blade beneath the grader used for cutting and pushing snow.
- Wing: A side-mounted blade used to clear snowbanks and widen the plowed path.
- Float Mode: A hydraulic setting that allows the blade to follow the road surface without downward pressure.
- Crabbing: Angling the rear wheels to offset the grader’s path, allowing wider clearing in one pass.
- Windrow: A ridge of snow left along the edge of the road after plowing.
Blade Control: Float vs. Manual Pressure
Opinions vary on whether to use float mode on paved surfaces. Some operators prefer letting the blade float to avoid damaging manhole covers or new asphalt. Others argue that float lacks responsiveness and prefer manually controlling blade pressure.
Best practices include:

• Use float on smooth blacktop with light snow
  
• Apply manual pressure when breaking up hardpack or ice
  
• Avoid excessive downforce on gravel roads to prevent dishing and gravel loss
  
• Adjust moldboard tilt periodically to refresh the cutting edge
  

On gravel roads, carry the blade slightly above the surface. Watch your mirrors—if you see bare ground, you’re cutting too deep. Leaving an inch of snow is often better than peeling off gravel.
Wing Operation and Cable Management
Cable-operated wings require vigilance:

• Keep the cable taut during use
  
• Avoid slack, which can lead to snapping under load
  
• Carry spare cable and clamps in the cab
  
• Photograph the cable routing for reference during repairs
  
• Replace seals and inspect lift cylinders before winter
  

One operator recalled replacing a wing cable in –30°F wind with bare hands—photos and spare parts saved the day.
Traction and Chain Configuration
Tire chains are essential in icy conditions. While some operators chain only one axle, many recommend chaining all four tandem wheels to avoid uneven stress and potential damage to the tandem case.
Chain tips:

• Install early in the season and leave on until spring
  
• Carry extra links and repair tools
  
• Avoid mixing chained and unchained wheels under load
  
• Monitor for chain wear and tension regularly
  

Lighting and Visibility Upgrades
Older graders often have dim or foggy incandescent lights. Upgrading to LED lights improves visibility and safety during early morning or nighttime plowing.
Consider:

• LED floodlights for moldboard and wing visibility
  
• Heated LED options to prevent ice buildup
  
• Low-draw systems compatible with existing wiring
  
• Board approval for upgrades if operating under municipal budgets
  

Drift Management and Route Strategy
When facing deep drifts:

• Work uphill when possible—if the drift breaks over the V-plow, backing downhill is safer
  
• Avoid pushing too far into drifts without escape options
  
• Use the wing as a rudder to steer around corners once snowbanks harden
  
• Prioritize high-traffic roads and school bus routes early in the storm
  
• Leave minimal windrows at driveways to avoid complaints
  

One operator noted that speed is your friend—plowing at 15 mph allows snow to roll cleanly off the blade, but adjust based on conditions.
Operator Tips and Seasonal Strategy

• Use moldboard tilt to adjust pressure rather than constantly adjusting both ends
  
• Learn your roads—some gravel routes may be little more than cow paths
  
• Keep a part-time helper or mentor nearby for advice and backup
  
• Use heated shops to thaw equipment and simplify maintenance
  
• Sand steep hills and intersections early to prevent sliding into traffic
  

Preventive Maintenance Checklist

• Inspect wing cylinders and seals before winter
  
• Check moldboard cutting edges and replace worn sections
  
• Test all lights and replace cracked lenses
  
• Grease pivot points and cable pulleys
  
• Verify chain tension and tire condition
  
• Stock up on fuel, sand, and de-icing materials
  

Conclusion: Confidence Through Experience
Snow plowing with a motor grader is a dynamic task that rewards attentiveness and adaptability. Whether you’re navigating icy hills, managing windrows, or adjusting blade pressure on the fly, each storm teaches something new. With the right equipment, a thoughtful approach, and a few shared stories from the field, even a new operator can become a trusted winter road warrior.