Snow Plow Prep

[RACE427]

I have not seen any advertisements for a "Snow Plow Prep Package" on the 03's. There is this feeling that it will not be offered because of the Hydro-formed chassis design. Has anyone heard anything about this option or reason for it's non-existance?

Thanks

 

[Blakers]

The dealer told me it's not necessary since they all have the same front end and high output alternator.



I need to call Western and see if my plow frame from my 95 will fit on my 03 (I highly doubt it!). Probably have to buy a new frame. Hopefully the Western dealer will take my old frame on trade.



Anyone shopped for plows for these new trucks yet?

 

[Rosco]

Both of my 2003's have the snowplow prep package. However, I don't think you can get the plow prep on every truck configuration.



As far as what the prep package gets you is another story. The CTD has the smaller 136 amp alternator no matter what package you get and the "as advertised" 160 amp alt is reserved for gas engines. On the other hand I do belive you get different front springs because I did a comparison between my 2500 Q/C with another guys comparably equipped 2500 Q/C who DID NOT have the plow prep and my truck had different front springs than his. Also, My regular cab has the same front springs as my Q/C did.



If you DO NOT have the plow prep on your truck and damage occurs D/C can refuse warranty work if the damage could be related to plowing.



Blakers, I needed to get a new wiring harness and sub frame when I switched my 8' Fisher from my '01 2500 to the 2003.



FYI There is no plow prep for 1500's.



Hope this helps.

 

[Blakers]

Originally posted by Rosco

Blakers, I needed to get a new wiring harness and sub frame when I switched my 8' Fisher from my '01 2500 to the 2003.



FYI There is no plow prep for 1500's.

I have an 8' Western. I presume the sub frame is different than the 95.



So the 1500's have gone the route of the F-150's? Turning into girly grocery haulers instead of real trucks. We used to plow all the time with half-tons and never hurt them - back when they were trucks. We bought a brand new 1965 Chevy 4x4 with Western plow for a grand total of $2500!!!

 

[Rosco]

Blakers, the sub frame is definitely different. Also, I hate to say it but GM still offers a plow prep on some of it's half ton trucks.



In reference to what I said above about the alternator there was a fellow on a website similar to the TDR who was trying to get his plow prep $$$ reimbursed from D/C because he stated the only reason he ordered the plow prep was for the bigger "as advertised" alternator and since he was victim to false advertising he wanted compensation. I think he won.



For the people on the fence about the plow prep the bottom line is unless you need the heavy duty front springs and the harsher ride that goes with them I would scratch it of the "must have" list.