How to Use a Snow Plow

Push snow out of the way with a snow plow.

Snow Plows provide an important function in areas that receive a great deal of snow fall. These vehicles clear roads and parking lots by pushing snow out of the way. Most areas have strict regulations about the use of snow plows. You may need special permission to plow public land or may be forbidden from plowing snow across a street. Before you attempt to plow anything, check your local laws.

Instructions

1. Examine your snowplow to ensure that your equipment is in working condition. Fill your fuel tank, if it is not full. Ensure that the snowplow is properly connected to the vehicle and not loose in any way.

2. Open the garage door, if necessary. Enter the vehicle and turn the ignition on. Turn the "Plow" switch to off and drive out of your garage. Drive to the location that you must plow. Do not exceed a speed of 40 miles per hour.

3. Determine where you will pile snow when you arrive at the location. Some people pile snow near a dumpster while others pile snow on a field. Snow piles should be out of the way and should not be on sidewalks or streets.

4. Align your car with the location of the future pile. The car should face the future pile so that you can drive in a straight line. Lower your driving speed to around 10 miles per hour.

5. Turn your "Plow" switch to the on position and drive straight, pushing the snow forwards. As you reach the location for the future pile, slow your car to a stop by pressing the brake.

6. Move the plow switch to the off position and put your vehicle in reverse. Back up a few feet to allow the snow pile to settle. Return to the right or left of your start position by backing up the car. Plow another line of snow.

7. Repeat the plowing process until you have plowed all of the snow.

Tips & Warnings

• Always plow snow in a straight line. If you must turn or go in reverse, turn off the plow switch.

References

• Boss Plow: Plowing Tips
• The Foster Family: The Snowplow