June 11, 2015
Keeping Rubber Edge Snow Pusher Boxes in Top Shape
When hard weather hits, your snow removal equipment needs to be in fighting shape. The truth of the matter is, however, that even the highest quality equipment needs some maintenance, especially after it’s performed reliably for countless hours. From cutting edges to wear shoes, the key parts of heavy duty snow plows and snow pushers need attention, and sometimes replacement.
Replacing Rubber Cutting Edges
When all four surfaces have been used and the cutting edge can no longer be adjusted, it’s time for replacement. The highest quality rubber cutting edges for snow pushers utilize SBR extruded rubber. Make sure the edge you choose is hard, flexible, and durable. When installed, the back lower edge of your rubber cutting edge should be between ⅛ and ¼ below the bottom of the wear shoe. The bolts for the steel hold down, which keeps the cutting edge secured to the snow box pusher should be tightened to 120 ft – lb using an impact gun.
Replacing Wear Shoes
Wear shoes are due for replacement when they appear worn are less than a quarter inch thick. The most important qualities to look for in replacement wear shoes for snow pushers are those that promote consistent wear over the life of the shoe: abrasion resistance, impact resistance, and through-hardening. Some manufacturers also offer specialty shoes that enable the hardest working snow pushers to tackle unique surfaces and property-types.
Binder Kits
Little parts can make a big difference, so don’t count out the chains, clevises, hooks, and binders when performing maintenance on your loader or backhoe model snow box pusher. All the parts included in binder kits should be extremely durable, surpassing minimum required ratings whenever possible.
Level Gauges
Snow pushers can’t get the job done right if they aren’t running level. Fortunately, the best manufacturers have thought about hard-working operators and produced level gauges to help you know how level your snow pusher is running. Most gauges mount directly onto the sideplate and are visible from the cab.
A New Coat of Paint
Sometimes it takes a fresh coat of paint to get your snow pusher looking like new. Not just any paint will do, though. Only the highest quality primers and paints will hold up to salt spray and cold temperatures. The coating should be at least four millimeters thick and have passed a one thousand hour salt spray test before you use it on your snow box pusher.
Heavy snowfall doesn’t stop your snow pusher, and neither should worn parts. Pay close attention to the condition of your equipment and make sure you only purchase the highest quality replacement parts. The toughest jobs can only be tackled by snow pushers in the best shape.