Tips For Installing A Snow Plow On Your UTV In The Greater Reno Area

Installing a snow plow for a UTV can transform your vehicle into an efficient snow-clearing machine, making winter maintenance easier for property owners in the Greater Reno area. Whether you own a plow for a Polaris Ranger, an ATV with a snow plow, or are looking to equip your snow plow for a quad, understanding the proper installation steps and best practices will help ensure reliable performance throughout the season.

Is Plowing Snow Hard on a UTV?

Many people wonder if using a snow plow for a UTV can cause damage to their vehicle. The reality is that plowing can put extra strain on a UTV, but with the right setup and maintenance, you can minimize wear and tear.

Factors That Affect Your UTV When Plowing

1. Weight and Load – A snow plow for a 4-wheeler adds extra weight to the front end, which can put strain on the suspension, steering components, and shocks. Over time, excessive weight without proper support may cause sagging in the front end.
2. Engine Stress – Pushing heavy snow requires more power from your UTV, which can lead to overheating if not properly monitored. Running the UTV at high throttle for extended periods without allowing the engine to cool can cause excessive wear.
3. Tire Wear – Snow-covered and icy surfaces can cause additional wear on tires if they are not properly inflated and suited for winter conditions. Using all-terrain or snow-specific tires can help improve traction and prevent unnecessary tire degradation.
4. Frame and Mounting System – Ensuring a secure and well-balanced ATV plow blade will prevent excessive stress on the vehicle’s frame. Incorrectly mounted plows can shift weight unevenly, causing alignment problems and potential frame damage.
5. Battery Drainage – UTVs with electric winches or hydraulic plow lifts may put additional strain on the battery, particularly in cold weather. Ensuring your battery is in good condition and using a trickle charger when not in use can help prolong its life.
6. Fuel Consumption – Plowing requires more fuel compared to regular UTV operation. You may notice increased fuel consumption due to the extra load the plow puts on the engine.

How to Reduce Strain on Your UTV

• Use a snow plow for side-by-sides that matches the recommended weight capacity of your vehicle. Overloading your UTV with a heavy plow can cause premature wear and tear.
• Install a winch system to help lift and lower the ATV snow blade without straining the UTV’s hydraulic system. This also ensures smoother operation and better blade control.
• Adjust the blade height properly to avoid scraping too hard against uneven surfaces. Raising the blade slightly while plowing on gravel or unpaved roads prevents unnecessary wear.
• Perform routine maintenance, including checking fluid levels, belts, and tire pressure before and after plowing sessions. Keeping your UTV in peak condition reduces the chances of unexpected breakdowns.
• Lubricate moving parts such as the blade pivot points and mounting brackets to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation.
• Avoid plowing large amounts of snow in a single pass; instead, take multiple smaller passes to reduce engine strain and improve efficiency.
• Use tire chains or add weight to the rear of your UTV for better traction on slippery surfaces. Extra weight in the cargo bed can balance the load and improve control.
• Regularly inspect plow mounting points for loosened bolts or signs of stress. Catching small issues early can prevent costly repairs later.
• Allow your UTV to idle for a few minutes after plowing to cool down the engine and allow fluids to circulate properly before shutting it off.

By following these best practices, you can extend the life of your ATV with a snow plow while ensuring smooth operation throughout the winter season.

How Much Does It Cost to Have a Snow Plow Installed?

The cost of installing a snow plow for a UTV can vary depending on the type of plow system, labor costs, and additional accessories.

Estimated Costs

• Basic ATV Plow Kit – $300 to $800
• Mid-Range UTV Plow System – $800 to $1,500
• High-End Hydraulic or Winch-Assisted Plows – $1,500 to $3,500
• Professional Installation – $100 to $500 (varies by location and complexity)

Factors Affecting Installation Costs

1. Plow Type – A manual lift plow is generally less expensive than a hydraulic or winch-assisted plow.
2. Vehicle Compatibility – Some UTVs require custom mounting brackets or modifications, which may add to the installation cost.
3. Labor Rates – Professional installation fees vary depending on the shop and the complexity of the setup.
4. Additional Accessories – Tire chains, plow lights, and reinforced suspension upgrades can increase overall costs but enhance performance.
5. Geographic Location – Prices can vary based on local demand and availability of snow plow kits.

DIY vs. Professional Installation

Some UTV owners choose to install their ATV plow blade themselves, saving on labor costs. However, professional installation ensures that the plow is mounted securely and adjusted for optimal performance. 395 Motorsports provides expert assembly services to ensure your ATV with a snow plow is securely mounted and optimized for performance.

What Are the Do’s and Don’ts of Snow Plowing?

To maximize efficiency and protect your UTV, it’s important to follow best practices while avoiding common mistakes.

Do’s of Snow Plowing

• Choose the Right Blade Size – A blade that is too large can be difficult to maneuver, while a small ATV plow blade may not clear enough snow efficiently.
• Check the Snow Conditions – Wet and heavy snow requires slower and more controlled plowing to prevent damage to the UTV.
• Use the Correct Angle – Adjusting the snow plow for four-wheelers to the right angle ensures snow is pushed in the desired direction.
• Start with Light Loads – If plowing deep snow, take multiple passes rather than trying to push everything at once.
• Maintain Visibility – Install LED lights if plowing early in the morning or late at night to improve safety.
• Store Your Equipment Properly – After the season, clean and store your snow plow for a UTV in a dry location to prevent rust and deterioration.
• Wear Proper Gear – Insulated gloves, weather-resistant boots, and a helmet or protective eyewear can make plowing safer and more comfortable.

Don’ts of Snow Plowing

• Don’t Plow at High Speeds – Excessive speed can cause skidding and potential damage to your UTV and surroundings.
• Don’t Ignore Obstacles – Be mindful of curbs, rocks, and other hidden hazards under the snow that could damage your snow plows for side-by-sides.
• Don’t Overload the Blade – Trying to push too much snow at once can overwork your UTV and lead to mechanical issues.
• Don’t Skip Regular Maintenance – Check bolts, mounts, and the blade after each use to ensure everything remains in good condition.
• Don’t Use the Wrong Tires – Make sure your UTV is equipped with winter tires or tire chains for optimal traction.
• Don’t Leave Snow Piles in High-Traffic Areas – Accumulated snow can refreeze and create hazards for pedestrians and vehicles.

Choosing The Best ATV & UTV Snow Plows In the Greater Reno Area

Selecting the right snow plow for a quad or UTV depends on multiple factors, including blade material, mounting system, and lift mechanism. For a comprehensive guide on choosing the best plow, check out Choosing The Best ATV & UTV Snow Plows In the Greater Reno Area.

Final Thoughts: Get Ready for Winter at 395 Motorsports

If you’re in the Greater Reno area and need a plow for a Polaris Ranger or an ATV plow blade, visit 395 Motorsports for expert advice and installation services.

📍 Visit Us: 951 Jacks Valley Road, Suite A, Carson City, NV 89705
📞 Call or Text: 775-267-3767

Equip your UTV with the best snow plows for four-wheelers and be prepared for the winter season with high-quality products from 395 Motorsports!