The BOSS RT3 straight-blade snowplow, equipped with SmartHitch2 technology, is a high-performance vehicle-mounted plowing solution designed for residential and commercial use. Its installation requires careful attention to mechanical and electrical components, as well as adherence to safety protocols to ensure optimal performance and operator safety. This article provides a detailed breakdown of the installation process, electrical setup, and safety considerations based on the manufacturer’s official documentation.
Overview of the BOSS RT3 Snowplow
The BOSS RT3 is a straight-blade plow that integrates with the SmartHitch2 hydraulic system for ease of attachment and control. It is compatible with a range of light-duty and medium-duty trucks and is designed for use in cold-weather environments where snow accumulation is common. The plow is engineered for straightforward installation and includes features such as adjustable plow shoes, a hydraulic manifold for directional control, and integrated lighting for visibility.
One of the key components of the RT3 is the SmartHitch2 selector switch, which allows the user to engage and disengage the plow from the vehicle. The system is designed to reduce the physical effort required during installation and removal, making it a preferred option for users who frequently switch between plowing and driving.
The documentation provided by BOSS Plow outlines the importance of following specific installation steps, including positioning the plow correctly, securing the hydraulic lines, and ensuring that all electrical components are properly connected. It also emphasizes the need for operator training, particularly in handling the plow at speeds and in conditions that could pose a risk if not managed properly.
Installation of the BOSS RT3 Snowplow
The installation process for the BOSS RT3 snowplow involves several key steps that must be executed with precision to ensure the plow functions correctly and safely. Below is a detailed breakdown of the installation procedure, as outlined in the official documentation.
Step 1: Pre-Installation Preparation
Before beginning the installation, the user must verify that the ambient temperature is above 60°F (16°C). The installation of the swivel mount is not recommended under colder conditions, as this may affect the integrity of the components or the operation of the hydraulic system. Additionally, the vehicle must be running during the installation process, as this ensures that the hydraulic and electrical systems are active and functional.
Step 2: Attaching the Plow Shoes
The plow shoes are essential for ensuring that the plow remains stable and secure during operation. Each plow shoe requires the installation of a spacer and washer before being fastened to the plow frame. The manufacturer specifies the use of a self-locking nut (3/4 inch), a bolt (5/8 x 3 inches), and locknuts (3/8 inch) for securing the plow shoes. Proper alignment of the plow shoes is critical for the plow’s performance and must be double-checked to ensure even distribution of weight and pressure.
Step 3: Installing the Blade Shock-Mount
The blade shock-mount is designed to absorb impact and reduce wear on the plow blade during operation. To install the shock-mount, the user must first attach it to the top of the shock absorber using a 5/8-inch bolt. Additional bolts and locknuts (3/8 inch) are used to secure the shock-mount in place. It is important to follow the torque specifications provided in the manual to ensure that the components are neither under-tightened, which could lead to instability, nor over-tightened, which could cause damage to the threads or fasteners.
Step 4: Mounting the Hydraulic Components
The hydraulic manifold is a central component of the SmartHitch2 system and controls the directional movement of the plow. The hydraulic lines must be routed according to the manufacturer’s specifications to avoid kinks or bends that could restrict fluid flow. The installation of the hydraulic manifold includes attaching the lift and angle control valves, as well as connecting the flow control cartridge. The documentation specifies the use of specific part numbers for these components, including:
- HYD01637: Hydraulic valve, lift/angle cartridge
- HYD07048: Hydraulic valve, flow control cartridge
- HYD07122: Hydraulic valve assembly with SmartHitch2 (red)
These components must be assembled in the correct sequence and secured using the appropriate fasteners. The hydraulic system should be checked for leaks after installation and during the initial operation of the plow.
Step 5: Connecting the Electrical Components
The electrical system of the BOSS RT3 includes the plow headlights, high-beam and low-beam controls, and the SmartHitch2 selector switch. The installation of these components requires careful attention to wiring and connection points. The headlight adapters must be connected to the vehicle’s electrical system using the correct polarity. For example, models such as 1999–2002 Chevrolet and GMC trucks require the negative (-) battery terminal connection.
The SmartHitch2 switch must be positioned on the side of the coupler tower and activated before the plow is engaged. The user must also ensure that the high-beam light indicator on the vehicle is illuminated to confirm that the electrical connections are functioning correctly.
The documentation includes detailed schematics for both the plow side and the truck side of the electrical system. These diagrams provide guidance on how to connect the wires and ensure that the color-coded harnesses (brown, blue, green, orange, etc.) are properly aligned. Any mismatched or incorrect wiring could lead to malfunction or safety risks.
Step 6: Installing the Light Bar
The light bar is a critical component for ensuring visibility during plowing operations. It must be securely mounted to the top of the coupler tower using four bolts (3/8 x 1-1/4 inch) and self-locking nuts (3/8 inch). The bolts must be torqued to 31 N·m (23 ft-lb) to ensure a stable and secure installation.
It is also important to verify that the light bar and plow headlights do not come into contact with the vehicle’s hood. If this occurs, the user must adjust the mounting position or install a protective shield to prevent damage to either the plow or the vehicle.
Safety Considerations
Safety is a critical aspect of operating and installing the BOSS RT3 snowplow. The manufacturer has included multiple safety decals and warnings on the plow to alert operators to potential hazards. These warnings must be read and understood before installation and during operation.
Speed Limitations
One of the most important safety guidelines is the speed limitation for transporting the plow. The manufacturer explicitly states that the plow should not exceed 40 mph (64 km/h) when being transported. Exceeding this speed increases the risk of the plow becoming unstable or causing damage to the vehicle.
Crush Hazards
Operators must also be aware of crush hazards during installation and maintenance. The documentation warns against standing between the plow and the vehicle during maintenance, as this can result in serious injury if the plow shifts or moves unexpectedly.
Proper Training
The manual emphasizes that all operators must be trained before operating the plow. This includes understanding how to control the plow using the SmartHitch2 system, how to adjust the plow shoes and blade, and how to respond to potential malfunctions or emergencies.
Air Bag Deployment Risk
The documentation also notes that careless or high-speed driving while plowing snow can trigger the deployment of the vehicle’s air bag. This is a serious safety concern and underscores the need for cautious driving and adherence to speed limits.
Use of Safety Decals
Safety decals and instructional materials are placed near potential danger zones and must be checked for damage or wear. If a decal is missing or damaged, it should be replaced immediately to ensure that operators have access to critical safety information.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
The manual includes a troubleshooting section that addresses common issues and their potential causes. For example, if the plow lights are dim or flickering, the issue may be related to electrical connections. The manual recommends cleaning and repairing the terminals or replacing the headlight adapters if necessary.
Another common issue is the failure of the SmartHitch2 system to engage or disengage the plow. This may be due to a malfunction in the electrical connections or the selector switch. Operators should check the wiring and ensure that all connections are secure and free from corrosion.
Conclusion
The BOSS RT3 snowplow is a versatile and reliable tool for snow removal, but its proper installation and operation depend on following the manufacturer’s guidelines. From the mechanical assembly of the plow shoes and hydraulic components to the electrical connections and safety protocols, each step plays a crucial role in ensuring the plow functions as intended and remains safe to use.
Operators must be trained in all aspects of the plow’s use, including installation, maintenance, and emergency response. The emphasis on speed limits, crush hazards, and electrical integrity highlights the importance of vigilance and adherence to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
By following the detailed procedures and safety instructions provided in the official documentation, users can maximize the performance and longevity of their BOSS RT3 snowplow while minimizing the risk of accidents or equipment failure.