When winter arrives, your snow plow is your best friend for clearing roads and driveways. But all that work, combined with snow, ice, and road salt, can cause rust and corrosion on the blade. Over time, this can ruin your plow. The good news? A little care can keep your blade in great shape all season long.
West Michigan Towable Solution (WMTS) knows how important it is to keep your snow plow running smoothly. This guide breaks down easy ways to stop rust and protect your plow so you can focus on clearing snow without any worries.
Why Do Rust and Corrosion Happen?
Rust shows up when metal is exposed to water and oxygen. Add road salt to the mix, and the process speeds up, eating away at the metal. Snow, ice, and the constant grind of plowing make things even worse.
But don’t worry – with some basic steps, you can stop rust from taking over and keep your blade working like new.
Keep the Blade Clean
The easiest way to fight rust is to clean your blade often. After each use, rinse off snow, ice, and road salt. This stops the corrosive stuff from sticking around. Use water for a quick rinse, and if the grime is bad, grab some mild soap or degreaser.
Make sure to dry the blade completely after washing it. Leaving it wet can speed up rusting. Even if you’re short on time, a quick rinse and dry can make a big difference. Do a deeper clean whenever you can.
Add a Protective Coating
A protective coating acts like a shield for your blade, keeping out moisture and salt. Here are some options:
Rust sprays: These are quick and easy to apply and can be found in most stores.
Paint or powder coating: A fresh coat of paint or a professional-grade powder coating seals the metal and lasts longer. It takes more effort but offers better protection.
Hydraulic fluid or oil: If you’re in a pinch, a thin layer of oil can work. It’s not as strong as other options but better than nothing.
Always clean and dry your blade before adding any coating. Reapply after heavy use to keep the shield strong.
Store the Plow the Right Way
When you’re not using your plow, where you keep it matters. Store it in a dry, covered space like a garage or shed. If that’s not possible, use a tarp or cover to protect it from snow and rain.
Make sure the blade isn’t sitting in water or slush. If your plow detaches easily, consider storing the blade separately to keep it safe from the elements.
Check for Damage Regularly
Small scratches or dents might not seem like a big deal, but they’re where rust starts. Look at your blade closely during maintenance checks. Pay attention to edges and spots where the coating has worn off.
Fix small rust spots by sanding them down and adding touch-up paint or rust spray. If the damage is too big to fix yourself, we offer snow plow repair services to get your blade back in shape.
Use the Right Tools
The tools you use for cleaning and maintenance can help prevent rust. Soft brushes or cloths are great for cleaning without scratching the blade. For rust removal, use sandpaper or a wire brush gently to avoid further damage.
Follow instructions when applying coatings or sprays to ensure they work as intended. If you’re unsure which products to use, WMTS experts can recommend the best options for your plow.
Schedule Regular Maintenance
Even with regular care, it’s a good idea to get professional maintenance. A tune-up can catch problems you might miss and keep your equipment in top shape.
At WMTS, we specialize in snow plow repair and maintenance. Our team can handle everything from rust prevention to fixing hydraulic systems. Regular maintenance helps your blade last longer and saves money in the long run.
Choose Quality Equipment
Investing in a good-quality blade can make rust and corrosion less of a problem. Durable blades with strong protective coatings hold up better against winter weather. While they might cost more upfront, they’ll save you money on repairs and replacements over time.
If you’re thinking about upgrading your plow, WMTS can help you choose the right equipment for your needs.
Stay Ahead of Rust
Rust and corrosion don’t have to ruin your snow plow. Cleaning, protective coatings, proper storage, and regular maintenance can keep your blade in great condition.
West Michigan Towable Solution is here to help with expert advice. Don’t let rust slow you down this winter. Contact us or visit our snow plow repair shop to see how we can keep your plow running like a pro.