Are you wondering if your Ford F150 can plow snow and debris? Knowing that your pickup truck has enough capacity, strength and handling can really come in handy when plowing snow in cold winter. We have carried out some in-depth research on the Ford F150 and have some useful tips for you.
Can a Ford F150 plow snow? Yes, it can. The new Ford F150 comes equipped with a “plow-prep” option that allows you to plow snow. It also includes lighter material and high-strength steel for better handling and capability. The ability to plow snow largely depends on the features of your F150.
You can even buy snow plows on websites such as Amazon at the moment – take a look at snow plow prices on Amazon.
Here’s an amazing video of a Ford F-150 plowing snow…
Trim Features Needed To Plow Snow
For a long time, finding a light-duty pickup truck that could accommodate a plow was a difficult task. Due to electric limitations and chassis differences, most pickup trucks were not plow-capable. The F150 has been engineered to accept a plow. In addition, it has a new electrical system that does not tax your vehicle nor limit it in any way.
The new changes allow you to include a plow-package without affecting your truck’s carrying capacity at the front end. You are also not required to make any suspension modifications or chassis upgrades.
For your Ford F150 to plow snow successfully, it must have the right features. Some of these features come as standard. Others will require you to search for recommended upgrades and pre-sale packages. These features include:
- 0-liter V8 engine
- All-Wheel Drive
- Steering damper
- Engine oil cooler
- All-terrain tires
- Roof clearance lights
- Bar stabilizer at the front and rear
- Auxiliary auto-transmission cooler
Types of Ford F-150 Snow Plows
Ford F-150 snow plows are available in a variety of designs. The first noticeable feature about a snow plow is the blade. It can either be V-shaped or straight. A V-shaped blade features a pivot positioned at the middle to help control the snow. Extendable blades are also used as an alternative to the straight and V-shaped blades. These feature “wing” accessories that can be installed with ease.
Second, plow blades are normally made of either polyethylene or steel. The former is lighter, but the latter provides more downforce that helps with clearing more snow. The pivot mechanism also helps to move the steel blade when it hits an obstacle. This prevents you from feeling as if you just hit a brick wall.
Third, plow blades can weigh from as little as a few hundred pounds to as much as a thousand pounds. Most of them will range from 61/2to 10 feet wide. The size and weight of a plow blade will highly determine the most appropriate setup for your truck.
How Much Does an F150 Snow Plow Cost?
When it comes to cost, there are a number of features to consider. These include the cost of the plow itself, installation costs, upgrades, and the accessories that your truck will require.
The Ford F150 comes with a snow plow prep package that allows the truck to accommodate snow plows with ease. It also includes transmission and oil coolers as well as the necessary wiring. If these are not part of your Ford F150, consider them as an additional investment. This is especially if you’ll go for a heavier plow.
For a larger blade designed for commercial tasks, costs can shoot to as high as $5,000.
A lighter blade designed for personal and home use could range from a few hundred dollars to $2,000.
Due to the additional stress exerted on your truck, keep in mind that spending doesn’t end at the initial stage. You’ll need to carry out periodic maintenance both for your truck and plow.
Where to Buy an F150 Snow Plow New
When buying a snow plow, it’s important that you get one from a reputable source. Based on our research, we have gathered 10 of the best snow plow brands based on years of customer feedback, industry expertise, and sales data.
Below is a list of top ten snow plow brands for your Ford F150:
- Snowbear Snow Plow
- Meyer Home Plow (view on Amazon)
- SnowSport HD Snow Plow
- DK2 Snow Plow
- FirstTrax Snow Plow
- SnowBear Winter Wolf Snow Plow
- Meyer WingMan Snow Plow
- FirstTrax Premium Snow Plow
- Nordic Auto Plow
- SnowSport 180 Snow Plow
What to look for when buying a used snow plow for an F150
Buying a used snow plow for your Ford F150 helps you to save money and beat the market price of a new one. Whether you’re experienced or new to snow plowing, you want to make sure that you get a good snow plow that doesn’t compromise on performance or quality.
Buying used means that you won’t get benefits such as a warranty. You don’t want to make a bad investment that will have you spending more time at the repair shop.
Remember to thoroughly inspect the snow plow before closing the deal. Below are some of the things to look for when buying a used snow plow for your Ford F150:
- A good match – Make sure that the plow is compatible with your truck and that it’s designed to fit right in. Look for a snow plow that has the F150 package in mind.
- Lifespan – A good snow plow is one with plenty of life left in it.
- Cutting edge – Examine the blade carefully to ensure that it’s in great shape.
- Corners – Examine the plow corners for damage and dents.
- Hydraulic fluid – Look at the ground below the plow to check if the hydraulic fluid is leaking.
- Electronics – Ask to see the owner of the plow use it. Check that all the necessary wiring is still in place.
How to keep safe when snow plowing with an F-150
Snow plowing is an exercise that is carried out in hazardous conditions. In addition, it takes a lot of concentration and care to avoid injury and damage to persons and property. Truck drivers must ensure that they take the necessary precaution at all times.
Below are safety tips to remember as you plow snow during a cold winter season:
- Direct the blade towards the curb. When transporting plowed snow, make sure that your blade is angled to the right. This prevents hitting a curb that could pull your truck towards it.
- Turn your controls off when moving to and from the job site. This prevents accidental operation that may otherwise cause damage to equipment.
- Maintain a speed of 14 mph and below when plowing. Don’t exceed 40 mph when moving snowplow.
- When transporting snowplow, position your blade in such a way that it does not block your headlights and vision.
- Keep your engine temperatures in check by monitoring the temperature gauge regularly. Adjust the blade to facilitate better airflow if the engine overheats.
- Never look from outside the window as you plow.
- Know your route. Check for obstacles such as fences, posts, mailboxes, shrubs, sidewalks, and fire hydrants.
- Be patient and tolerant when it comes to other motorists and pedestrians. They’ll probably try to be extra cautious once they see a truck driving with a plow.
- Get enough sleep the night before the big day. Ensure that you’re not feeling sleepy or drowsy behind the wheel.
- Always have your seat belt on when operating your snow plow.
- When reversing, turn around to get a clear view of where you’re heading to. Do not solely rely on your mirrors as the vision could be flawed.
- Take good care of your hydraulics by lowering your blade after a day’s job. Turn off your controls to ensure that there are no stresses exerted on your truck.
Conclusion
An F150 can plow snow. Ford has built this pickup truck in such a way that it can withstand the toughest of jobs. As seen, there are a lot of factors to consider before taking your pickup truck for some snow plowing.
These factors ensure that you get the best quality and performance from your truck. They also promote safety and ensure that you save money and do not damage your truck in any way. Following them to the letter is recommended.
If you’re having trouble picking up the right snow blade for your Ford F150, consult your local Ford dealer for help.