Identifying Air-Operated Hydraulic Diverter Valves in Snow Plow Systems

[MikePhua]

The Role of Diverter Valves in Hydraulic Control
Hydraulic diverter valves are essential components in fluid power systems, allowing a single hydraulic source to control multiple circuits or functions. In snow plow applications, these valves often manage the flow of hydraulic fluid between lift, angle, and wing cylinders. When space or budget constraints limit the use of multiple pumps or control valves, diverters offer a compact and efficient solution.
The valve in question appears to be an air-operated hydraulic diverter mounted on the side of a Geartek hydraulic pump. This configuration is common in municipal snow plow setups where pneumatic control is used to redirect hydraulic flow based on operator input from the cab.
Terminology Note: “Diverter valve” redirects hydraulic flow from one circuit to another. “Air-operated” means the valve is actuated by compressed air rather than electric solenoids or manual levers.
In 2022, a highway maintenance crew in Minnesota retrofitted their plow trucks with air-operated diverters to simplify control wiring and reduce electrical faults during winter storms.
Design Features and Identification Clues
To identify a hydraulic valve, technicians typically examine:

• Mounting style and bolt pattern
  
• Port configuration and thread type
  
• Actuation method (air, electric, manual)
  
• Flow rating and pressure tolerance
  
• Manufacturer markings or casting numbers
  

In this case, the valve is likely:

• A two-position, four-way diverter
  
• Rated for pressures up to 3,000 psi
  
• Equipped with SAE or NPT threaded ports
  
• Controlled by a pneumatic solenoid or toggle switch
  
• Designed for cold-weather operation with corrosion-resistant seals
  

Visual clues such as anodized aluminum housing, air inlet fittings, and directional arrows help confirm its function. If no brand name is visible, technicians may cross-reference the casting number or port layout with catalogs from manufacturers like HydraForce, Parker, or Prince.
Common Applications and Integration Tips
Air-operated hydraulic diverters are used in:

• Snow plows and salt spreaders
  
• Agricultural implements with multiple hydraulic functions
  
• Forestry machines with auxiliary attachments
  
• Utility trucks with lift gates and tool circuits
  
• Marine winches and deck equipment
  

Integration tips:

• Use filtered, dry air to prevent valve sticking
  
• Install check valves to prevent backflow during switching
  
• Label air and hydraulic lines clearly for maintenance
  
• Mount valve securely to reduce vibration stress
  
• Test valve response under load before field deployment
  

A technician in Ontario added a diverter valve to a plow truck’s lift circuit, allowing the same joystick to control both front and wing plows. The modification reduced cab clutter and improved operator efficiency.
Troubleshooting and Maintenance Strategies
Common issues with diverter valves include:

• Valve sticking due to moisture or debris in air supply
  
• Internal leakage causing slow or erratic cylinder movement
  
• Incorrect wiring or air routing leading to reversed functions
  
• Seal wear from contaminated hydraulic fluid
  
• Mounting stress causing housing cracks
  

Solutions:

• Install air dryer and filter upstream of valve
  
• Flush hydraulic system and replace fluid annually
  
• Use dielectric grease on electrical connectors if solenoid-actuated
  
• Replace seals with OEM kits rated for low-temperature use
  
• Torque mounting bolts to spec and inspect for frame distortion
  

In 2023, a snow plow operator in Wisconsin reported sluggish wing movement. Inspection revealed water in the air line had frozen inside the valve body. After installing a heated air dryer, the issue was resolved.
Upgrades and Long-Term Reliability Enhancements
To improve valve performance and longevity:

• Switch to stainless steel or anodized aluminum valves for corrosion resistance
  
• Use braided hydraulic hoses with swivel fittings to reduce stress
  
• Add pressure gauges to monitor circuit performance
  
• Retrofit electronic control modules for programmable valve sequencing
  
• Install quick-disconnect fittings for faster service
  

Preventive measures:

• Inspect valve operation monthly during winter season
  
• Replace air filters and check for leaks quarterly
  
• Keep spare seals and solenoids in service truck inventory
  
• Train operators on valve function and emergency override procedures
  

A fleet manager in Maine added electronic diverters to his plow trucks, allowing touchscreen control of all hydraulic functions. The upgrade reduced wiring complexity and improved diagnostic capability.
Conclusion
Air-operated hydraulic diverter valves are compact, reliable tools for managing multiple hydraulic functions from a single source. In snow plow systems and other mobile equipment, they offer flexibility, simplicity, and durability—provided they are properly identified, installed, and maintained. Whether directing fluid to a wing plow or a lift cylinder, the right valve keeps the job moving and the operator in control. In cold-weather hydraulics, precision starts with the valve.