182 STARTING AND OPERATING S NOWPLOW P REP P ACKAGE M ODEL A VAILABILITY be checked and reset if necessary at the beginning and end of the snowplow season. This will help prevent uneven tire wear. G ENERAL M AINTENANCE Snowplows should be maintained in accordance with the plow manufacturer's instructions. For Information about snowplow applications visit www.ramtrucks.com or refer to the current Body Builder’s Guide. The blade should be lowered whenever the vehicle is parked. Keep all snowplow electrical connections and battery terminals clean and free of corrosion. 1. The maximum number of occupants in the truck should not exceed two.
Maintain and operate your vehicle and snowplow equipment following the recommendations provided by the specific snowplow manufacturer. O VER T HE R OAD O PERATION W ITH S NOWPLOW A TTACHED When plowing snow, to avoid transmission and drivetrain damage, the following precautions should be observed. 2. The total GVWR or the Front GAWR or the Rear GAWR should never be exceeded. 3. Cargo capacity will be reduced by the addition of options or passengers, etc. Operate with transfer case in 4WD LOW when plowing small or congested areas where speeds are not likely to exceed 15mph (24km/h). At higher speeds operate in 4WD HIGH.
The blade restricts air flow to the radiator and causes the engine to operate at higher than normal temperatures. Therefore, when transporting the plow, angle the blade completely and position it as low as road or surface conditions permit. Do not exceed 40mph (64km/h). The operator should always maintain a safe stopping distance and allow adequate passing clearance. O PERATING T IPS The loaded vehicle weight, including the snowplow system, all aftermarket accessories, driver, passengers, options, and cargo, must not exceed either the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR).
These weights are specified on the Safety Compliance Certification Label on the driver's side door opening. Vehicles with automatic transmissions should use 4WD LOW when plowing deep or heavy snow for extended periods of time to avoid transmission overheating. Do not shift the transmission unless the engine has returned to idle and wheels have stopped. Make a practice of stepping on the brake pedal while shifting the transmission. NOTE: Detach the snowplow when transporting passengers. Vehicle front end wheel alignment was set to specifications at the factory without consideration for the weight of the plow.
Front end toe-in should Under ideal snow plowing conditions, 20mph (32km/h) should be maximum operating speed. The operator should be familiar with the area and surface to be cleaned. Reduce speed and use extreme caution when plowing unfamiliar areas or under poor visibility.