Frequently Asked Questions

  • What Fisher plow models are available for commercial trucks?

    Fisher manufactures multiple plow lines designed for different truck classes and plowing applications. Straight blades work for most general snow removal, while V-plows and expandable wings handle heavy commercial loads and wider coverage areas. Match plow weight and hydraulic demand to your truck's front axle rating and electrical system capacity.
  • How often do plow hydraulic systems need maintenance?

    Hydraulic fluid should be checked before each season and changed every two years or after heavy use. Moisture contamination reduces system pressure and causes sluggish blade movement. Inspect hoses for cracks and fittings for leaks during pre-season service to avoid breakdowns during storms.
  • When should you replace plow cutting edges instead of sharpening them?

    Replace cutting edges when wear reduces steel thickness to half the original height or when bolt holes become elongated. Sharpening works only when edge material remains structurally sound. Worn edges scrape pavement poorly and increase hydraulic strain because the plow doesn't glide efficiently.
  • What's the difference between tailgate sanders and under-tailgate spreaders?

    Tailgate sanders mount directly on the tailgate and work with any truck bed setup, while under-tailgate units install beneath the truck frame for permanent mounting. Tailgate models offer easier removal for off-season storage. Under-tailgate spreaders provide better weight distribution and preserve full bed access for other equipment.
  • How does New Hampshire's freeze-thaw cycle affect plow and sander equipment?

    NH winters alternate between freezing nights and above-freezing days, causing salt and moisture to penetrate equipment joints and electrical connections. This accelerates corrosion in hydraulic cylinders, spreader motors, and wiring harnesses. Rinse equipment after each use and apply corrosion inhibitor to exposed metal before storage.
  • Why do Fisher plows use trip-edge design instead of full-trip blades?

    Trip-edge plows keep the moldboard stationary while the cutting edge pivots over obstacles, maintaining better blade angle and snow-rolling efficiency. Full-trip designs lift the entire blade, which reduces operator control and creates uneven scraping. Trip-edge systems also protect hydraulic components from impact shock better.
  • What causes sanders to jam and how do you prevent it?

    Moisture causes salt and sand to clump inside hoppers and auger channels, especially when material sits unused between storms. Store bulk material under cover and run the spreader empty after each use to clear residual material. Vibrator kits reduce bridging in hoppers when spreading damp material.
  • Can you repair plow control modules or do they need replacement?

    Most modern plow controllers use sealed circuit boards that fail due to moisture intrusion or electrical surges. Repair isn't practical because internal components can't be accessed without destroying housing seals. Replacement units include updated wiring harnesses that address common failure points in older systems.
  • What plow angle adjustment should you use for different snow conditions?

    Straight blade position works for light snow under four inches and allows fastest plowing speed. Angled positions increase rolling efficiency in wet, heavy snow but reduce effective plow width. V-plow configuration breaks through packed snow and ice by cutting a center path, then rolling material outward with less truck power required.
  • How do you know when plow mounting hardware needs inspection or replacement?

    Check mounting bolts and frame brackets for cracks after every 20-30 hours of plowing or whenever you hear unusual rattling during blade operation. Stress cracks appear near weld points and bolt holes where impact forces concentrate. Loose or damaged mounts allow the plow to shift during operation, damaging truck front-end components.