Snow Plows & Salt Spreaders

Understanding Mounting Systems

Snow plows generally come in two mounting configurations: universal mount and custom mount systems. Universal mount plows typically utilize a front-mounted Class III receiver hitch (usually 2" receivers), making them adaptable to multiple vehicles with the appropriate receiver installed. Custom mount systems are vehicle-specific and may offer more secure attachment and better weight distribution for particular makes and models.

Before purchasing any snow plow, verify that your vehicle can accommodate the mounting system and that your truck or SUV's front suspension and electrical system can handle the additional weight and power requirements. Front mount receivers are typically sold separately and must be purchased based on your specific vehicle's year, make, and model.

Lifting Mechanisms: Winch vs. Actuator

Modern personal snow plows typically feature either electric winch systems or electric actuator systems for raising and lowering the blade. Winch-based systems use a cable mechanism and generally offer reliable performance at accessible price points. Actuator-based systems provide direct linear lift control, which some users find offers smoother and more precise blade positioning.

Many contemporary models include wireless remote controls, allowing operators to adjust blade height from inside the vehicle's cab without manual intervention. This convenience feature enhances safety and comfort during extended plowing sessions in cold weather conditions.

Blade Components and Accessories

Quality snow plow systems typically include several important components beyond the blade itself. Look for plows that come equipped with hardened steel cutting edge scrapers, which provide durability when contacting pavement and can be replaced as they wear. Rubber snow deflectors help prevent snow from spraying up and over the blade toward the windshield, improving visibility during operation.

Skid shoes protect the blade and paving surfaces by establishing proper ground clearance—particularly important on gravel driveways or uneven surfaces. Blade stiffeners add structural support to prevent flexing under heavy snow loads. Plow markers (often polymer-wrapped wire rope) help operators judge blade width and positioning, especially useful when plowing in low-light conditions or unfamiliar areas.

Castor wheel kits facilitate easier storage and movement of the plow when detached from the vehicle, protecting your garage floor and making seasonal storage more manageable.

Salt Spreading for Ice Management

While snow plows remove accumulated snow, salt spreaders (also called salt broadcasters) address ice formation and provide traction on cleared surfaces. Tailgate-mounted salt spreaders are popular for personal and light commercial use, as they integrate with existing pickup trucks and can typically distribute deicing materials across widths ranging from 15 to 30 feet, depending on the model and material being spread.

Consider the capacity you'll need based on the area you're treating. Models designed for small to medium parking lots and driveways typically hold multiple bags of salt or ice melt, reducing the frequency of refills during treatment operations. Proper ice management complements snow removal by maintaining safe walking and driving surfaces after plowing is complete.

Maintenance and Storage Considerations

To maximize the lifespan of your snow removal equipment, proper maintenance and off-season storage are essential. After each use, remove accumulated snow and ice from the plow components, and inspect for damage or excessive wear on cutting edges and moving parts. Salt spreaders should be thoroughly cleaned after use, as deicing chemicals are highly corrosive to metal components.

During the off-season, store plows in a dry location, preferably elevated off the ground using the castor kit if provided. Apply protective coatings to metal surfaces to prevent rust, and lubricate moving parts according to manufacturer recommendations. This preventive maintenance helps ensure your equipment is ready when winter weather returns.

Safety and Operational Best Practices

Operating snow removal equipment requires attention to safety protocols. Always ensure proper visibility by keeping the blade low enough to avoid obstructing your view. Plan your plowing route in advance to minimize backing up with the plow attached. Be aware of curbs, parked vehicles, landscaping features, and other obstacles that could be hidden under snow cover.

When plowing, use appropriate speed—typically slower than normal driving speeds—to maintain control and reduce stress on equipment. Angle the blade appropriately to push snow to the sides rather than directly ahead when possible, which improves efficiency and reduces strain on your vehicle.

For salt spreading, follow application rate guidelines to avoid over-application, which wastes material, harms vegetation, and contributes to environmental concerns. Different deicing products work effectively at different temperature ranges, so select materials appropriate for your regional climate conditions.

Snow Plows

Click on one of the manufacturer logos below to view our inventory by manufacturer:

If you run an auto shop or have a long private driveway in a colder climate, you need to be able to keep your them salted and clear of snow. A personal snow plow will allow you to protect your customers, employees or family safer when the snow starts falling. The personal snow plows we have from brands like SnowBear and DK2 will help you keep your business up and running during one of the busiest and most hectic seasons of the year.

The UNIVERSAL Mount Snow Plow Kit from DK2 allows you to remove snow from your driveway or small parking lot quickly and effectively, able to easily slide into and out of a front mount receiver for easy installation, removal, and storage when you’re done. It fits on most light trucks and allows you to control the up and down movement of the plow blade from the comfort of your vehicle. Each kit from DK2 includes a set of adjustable blade stiffeners, which add strength to the plow as needed for those particularly snowy days. DK2 is a leading manufacturer of automotive accessories, so you can trust that this product is reliable and efficient.

SnowBear makes personal snow plows in a variety of sizes to suit a variety of needs. With the measurements of their blades ranging from 72” x 19” to 88” x 26”, SnowBear builds products to make the lives of their customers easy and hassle-free. SnowBear is THE leading brand when it comes to personal snow plows, so you can’t go wrong by choosing any of their products. Just make sure that you have the right front mount size for the product that you buy since these front mounts are not included.

Another important way to combat icy roads is to spread a LOT of salt. SnowBear makes a Tail Gate Salt Spreader that can hold five bags weighing fifty pounds each of salt; it can spread salt up to 25 feet, making it perfect for a driveway or small parking lot, especially when you know you’re going to have a lot of traffic coming in and out. Be smart and prep for the holiday season by making your parking lot as safe and snow-free as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much does a snow plow cost?

A: The price you can expect to pay for a snow plow is going to depend on the type of snow plow you buy, the manufacturer who makes it, and the distributor you buy from. To demonstrate, let’s compare the DK2 84” x 22” snow plow to one of the SnowBear plows of the same size. The list price for the DK2 plow is around $2,234 US dollars. When you buy that plow from us, though, that price drops to around $1,763 US dollars. A SnowBear plow of the same size is going to cost between $2,641 and $2,860 US dollars, even when you buy it from us, because of the quality plows the brand makes and the great reputation that the brand has.

Q: Are snow plows bad for trucks?

A: No, snow plows are not bad for trucks. In fact, many personal snow plows are MADE for light trucks. However, to get the best results with your snow plow, it’s important to make sure you have the correct front mount for the size snow plow that you buy.

Q: Do snow plows damage driveways?

A: Unfortunately, snow plows often damage driveways, even when the drivers are extra careful. The amount of damage done can be reduced with careful and concise movements, but at the end of the day, you can’t avoid damage altogether. Most people agree that the importance of removing snow from the road so that everyone can drive safely takes priority over those small amounts of damage that snow plows cause.

WARNING: These products can contains certain metals/chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov