73-87chevytrucks.com
73-87 Chevy _ GMC Trucks => 4 Wheel Drives => Topic started by: Da67goatman on May 25, 2011, 08:04:17 pm
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I just came into a solid axled 4x4 and would like to know what goes bad faster due to snow plowing. I have heard various things from differently educated people. I have heard wheel bearings, ball joints and shocks just to name a few. I already planned on adding an additional tranny cooler to keep the auto cool, but what will I be replacing in the spring after snow plowing? Before you ask, no its not a chevy truck, it a Jeep but they are close enough to compare. It is much easier to prepare than to repair, plus working in 70 degrees and sunny beats -5 blizzard any day. Thanks.
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i donated some lifted springs to a friend so when he put his plow on it would sag as much. i dont think he has had any problems
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I have been plowing with my own truck commercially since 1992. I have broke about every part there is under the front end, and rear end of 73-87 Chevy trucks. It depends on how good a shape the current parts are. If your axle shafts are beat, then new axle / u joints are not going to stay in them very long! If you are concerned replace everything. It will defiantly hold up longer with out breakage if everything is new. The other thing is the way you treat it. If you nice to it it won't break as easily. If you plow like an animal its going to break, and usually break good!! I try to replace parts on my plow trucks when I notice them getting lose / starting to give it up. If an axle joint is left to grenade it will destroy the axle too.
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It doesn't hurt to add a higher amp alt if your current one ever goes out. Other than that keep your shoes adjusted and inspect your front end often. Also pay close attention to your temp gauge as your plowing and going down the highway.
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I have two plow trucks. One is a 3/4 ton the other a 1/2 ton. The biggest wear points on mine are the ball joints, shifter handles, and the adapter sleeves between the tranny and 205 t-case get sloppy. I don't abuse them and service them regularly. Both of them were retired because of the rust more than anything (floor pans are completely gone). They do hold up surprising well.
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I know some people will spray the bottom with bar and chain oil before the season to protect it from rust.