Snow plowing

[karow]

I'm currently looking at a 2001 HD, 6 speed Dodge, Quad Cab 4x4 long bed. It has nearly everything I'd like -- with one exception I'd like advice on.



I live in Maine, and this truck doesn't have the snow plow prep package. I don't plan on plowing for others, just my own relatively short driveway. How big of a deal is it to plow without the HD transfer case? Are there any other concerns about this truck and a plow?



If this isn't the appropriate forum for my question, I apologize. I'm new

 

[Bigramguy]

We have,and have had,several CTD's used heavily for plowing,and no problem to date,relating to the snow plowing. Only problem we've had is trying to get plows larger than 7. 5 ft from the dealers as anything larger will overload the front axle. They don't want to sell\install them due to liability. We just tell them it's for a 3500 gasser and put them on ourselves.



As far as the plow prep package,it wasn't even available on some CTD's,and if it was,most of it you already get with the diesel option\heavy duty pkg. The transfer case is a little heavier duty already with the diesel. You can see the differences at www.dodgeram.org and click on specs,transfer case.



If you looking for a plow,probably a Western would be your best bet. They are lighter than a Fisher or Diamond,have a better looking mount and control,and are just as tough. Plus real easy to get on and off. Also you can remove the mount from the truck in abount 20 mins,so the dealer won't hassle you about it.

 

[Wiz]

For the $100 cost of the Plow Prep package you get the HD front springs and the HD transfer case. If you don't get the plow prep, D/C was putting a disclaimer on the truck "not recommended for snow plowing". I'm sure if you had a warranty issue with the front end, you'd have an uphill battle with D/C if you didn't have the plow prep package.

Anyway, it's still your choice.

 

[Lug-nut]

I have plowed fairly heavy with my 98 ever since it was new. The snow plow prep package was not available on the 98's and I have had no problem at all. I use a Boss V plow which is about as heavy as they come. With it attached I am about 200 pounds over weight on the front end, but I have been totally happy with the setup. In the future I may put some heavier springs on the front end, but I have not noticed any sagging. I wouldn't worry too much if you are just plowing your own place.



Hope this helps.

 

[mr plow]

me personally, been plowing over 6 years with various dodges, currently using a 2000 2500 quad 4by with a fisher v plow. no sno plow prep or anything. I plow commercially, so my truck works overtime. Never had any problems with the front end. Put a set of helper springs in the front last winter though, and the truck drops barely 1 inch with the plow on. You would be ok to plow your driveway with a half ton dodge. Don't worry.



Plow away.





y2k 4x4 quad short box k&n, and Plug n power. 8. 5 fisher v-plow.

 

[Bigramguy]

If you want to beef up the front end,just add a set of timbren springs. They are little rubber boosters that mount in place of the bump stops. They are easily removable in less than 5 mins in the summer,or you can use them year round,but they do ride a bit harder without the plow. They will "stop the drop" when you have the plow on and do save wear and tear on the front end. Many of the heavy truck also use them. Here is a link,any good plow shop should have them. www.timbren.com



BTW stay away from any of the imitation's,such as the Monroe stuff,etc,they are OK,but not as good as the timbren's.

 

[mr plow]

absolutely, timbren is the thing. Although removing them takes more than 5 mins. I also dont find the ride harsh. After all, it is a cummins truck to start with, not a plush cadillac.



Most plow mfgs recommend timbren anyway.

 

[Bigramguy]

Mr plow



My timbrens mount to a plate welded to the old bumpstop holder. They go on with 1 bolt,and can be removed by jacking one side up,and cranking the wheel over,but leaving the tire on. Takes 5 mins. Are yours mounted differently ?



BTW Where about's are you in T. O. I'm in Brampton,nice to see a local on here

 

[mr plow]

yeah, mine go on the same way, but it takes a little longer than 5 mins to take them off, and besides, i dont mind the stiffness.



I'm located in Concord. Also nice to see a fellow canuck dieselhead like me.



cheers.



Mr. Plow.