Alan
PlowSite.com Addict
- Location
- NW Vermont, Milton
I see a lot of talk about diesel power on here. Or big cube gas power. Once you generate enough torque at the wheels to induce wheelspin, what good does more power do for you?<p>I've plowed with 350 GM up front as well as 305, both TBI engines. The 350 had 4.10 rear, the 305, 3.73. I saw NO practical difference in power at the plow. Currently running 350/3.73 Posi rear, seems like a good match. Also running 2 S-10s with 4.3/3.42 rears. Neither my son, myself, or our extra driver can see any difference in pushing power between the three trucks. These are all running 8' Sno-Way, so no difference in the plow load. The only time we see any difference is when we're in the pile, stacking, and the 350 will spin itself in easier. Nothing gained by that.<p>Only place I can see an advantage with diesel/big block might be the extra weight on the front axle gicing you a bit more bite with the front tires.<p>Now, maybe in 1-ton configuration, with dump body and spreader the extra power might be usable to get rolling, is it really that much of a help? <p>Personally, I don't like to plow with much extra load in the truck. I feel that the extra weight adds greatly to wear on transmission or clutch. I prefer to salt early in a storm, then plow once there is enough to push, and salt again after it is over, IF necessary. Usually a good anti-iceing application early will preclude the need for de-icing.