Plow with the Storm
It is of utmost importance to remember one basic rule — Always
plow with the storm. Start plowing when snow is 1 to 4 inches
deep, depending upon traffic or other limitations. Heavy wet
snow can be very hazardous when just 1 inch is on the ground.
Accumulations of more than 4 inches can be very difficult to
clear.
Plow with the Storm
Angle Moldboard for Optimum Results.
You will not be able to plow snow of any significant depth straight
ahead for more than a short distance. Set the moldboard at the
best angle for rolling snow sideways in the desired direction.
The snow plow path, in the angled position, should exceed the
tire track by at least six inches on either side. Be sure to have
enough slack in the lift chain while plowing so the cutting edge of
the moldboard can follow the ground contour. Use the adjustable
runner shoes to set the bottom edge of the plow just above the
ground for best operation.
It’s important to recognize the significance of even a few inches
of snow. Besides being slippery, especially when wet, snow
can be extraordinarily heavy, and make auto travel impossible.
Snowfall of just 1 to 3 inches will produce hazardous traffic and
roadway conditions even for experienced drivers.
Snow is heaviest when wet, and most difficult to handle. The
National Weather Service reports that a 6-inch, average weight
snowfall on a 200 x 200 foot parking lot weighs 62 tons. Heavy,
wet snow for the same area might weigh as much as 248 tons.
If the heavy snow had to be hauled away, you’d need 74 full
loads on a l0-yard truck.
Obviously, the only way to assure clear traffic areas is to be
prepared with the proper equipment and expertise to open
arteries and areas to traffic. Remember to keep current with
accurate snowfall information from local weather bureaus via
radio and television.
-16-
