The Fisher Minute Mount 2 snowplow system is a versatile, high-performance solution designed for efficient snow removal, particularly suited for commercial and professional use. This article provides an in-depth look at the installation process and essential hydraulic system maintenance for the Fisher Minute Mount 2, with a focus on the XV2™ blade model. The content is based entirely on the official Fisher Engineering manual and related technical documentation provided in the source material.
Overview of the Fisher Minute Mount 2 System
The Fisher Minute Mount 2 is a modular, quick-mount snowplow system that allows for rapid attachment and detachment from compatible vehicles. It is engineered to work with a wide range of trucks and is available in various blade widths to accommodate different plowing needs. The system is designed to be user-friendly, with intuitive controls and a robust hydraulic mechanism that enables smooth operation and powerful performance.
The XV2™ blade, a key component of the Minute Mount 2 system, is a curved blade optimized for efficient snow pickup and casting. Its design reduces the effort required to move snow, thereby saving fuel and minimizing wear on the vehicle and plow components. The blade is compatible with the Insta-Act hydraulic unit, which ensures reliable operation and ease of use.
Installation of the Fisher Minute Mount 2 Snowplow
Installing the Fisher Minute Mount 2 snowplow involves several steps, each of which is crucial for ensuring the system operates safely and effectively. The following guide outlines the key steps based on the information provided in the Fisher manual.
Vehicle Preparation and Compatibility
Before beginning the installation, it is essential to verify that the vehicle meets the necessary specifications. The Fisher Minute Mount 2 is compatible with certain models of Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 trucks equipped with gasoline engines. It is important to consult the Fisher eMatch selection system or an authorized Fisher outlet for specific vehicle application recommendations.
The manual emphasizes that the installation should be performed according to the headgear mount instructions provided by Fisher. This ensures that the snowplow is securely attached and functions as intended. Additionally, if ballast is required to enhance stability, it should be placed as close to the tailgate as possible and secured behind the rear axle. A ballast retainer kit (PN 62849) is available from Fisher to assist with this task.
Mounting the Snowplow
The Minute Mount 2 system is designed to be installed with minimal effort, as it utilizes a quick-mount mechanism that significantly reduces the time required for attachment. The process involves aligning the plow with the vehicle’s mounting points and securing it using the designated hardware. The manual provides detailed diagrams and instructions for proper alignment and tightening of bolts and fasteners.
Once the plow is mounted, the hydraulic system must be connected to the vehicle's electrical and fluid systems. This includes routing the hydraulic hoses correctly and ensuring that all connections are secure. The manual cautions against over-tightening JIC hose fitting ends, as this can lead to fitting fractures and potential system failure.
Electrical and Hydraulic Connections
The electrical system of the Minute Mount 2 includes several automotive blade-style fuses that protect the system from electrical faults. The manual specifies that the fuses must be installed according to the manufacturer's guidelines to ensure proper operation and safety. The fuses are located in both the vehicle's electrical system and the snowplow’s control module, and they must be checked and replaced if necessary.
The hydraulic system is a critical component of the Minute Mount 2, and it must be filled with the appropriate hydraulic fluid. The manual recommends using Fisher EZ Flow hydraulic fluid or an equivalent that meets the specified standards. The reservoir should be filled to the correct level, depending on the blade type. For the XV2™ blade, the reservoir should be filled to the top of the fill hole, and the fill plug must be reinstalled securely.
Hydraulic System Maintenance
Regular maintenance of the hydraulic system is essential for the long-term performance and reliability of the Fisher Minute Mount 2. The following sections outline key maintenance procedures based on the information provided in the Fisher manual.
Preseason Hydraulic System Check
Before the plowing season begins, it is recommended to perform a preseason check of the hydraulic system. This includes draining the hydraulic fluid and refilling the reservoir with the recommended fluid. The manual specifies that the fluid should be changed at the beginning of each plowing season to maintain optimal performance.
The process involves lowering the blade when the vehicle is parked and ensuring that the reservoir is filled according to the blade type specifications. For the XV2™ blade, the reservoir should be filled to the top of the fill hole. It is also important to note that temperature changes can affect the pressure in the reservoir, so the fill plug should be loosened slowly to relieve any pressure before refilling.
Air Removal Procedures
Air in the hydraulic system can cause inefficiency and potential damage to the components. The Fisher manual provides detailed instructions for removing air from the system, depending on the blade type.
For the HT Series™ and straight blades, the process involves turning the control ON and angling the blade left and right several times. This helps to circulate the fluid and release any trapped air. The reservoir should then be refilled to the appropriate level and the fill plug reinstalled.
For the XV2™ and XLS™ blades, the procedure is slightly different. The manual recommends turning the control ON and extending and retracting the driver-side wing several times. This is repeated for the passenger-side wing, followed by raising and lowering the snowplow several times. These steps help to ensure that the hydraulic system is free of air and operating smoothly.
Hose and Fitting Replacement
Over time, hydraulic hoses and fittings may wear out or become damaged, necessitating replacement. The manual provides step-by-step instructions for replacing these components safely and effectively.
The process begins by lowering the snowplow completely and turning the control OFF. It is important to keep a safe distance from the blade (at least 8 feet) to avoid injury during the procedure. The fill plug should be loosened slowly to relieve any pressure in the reservoir before removing the old hose or fitting.
When installing new hoses and fittings, care must be taken to align them correctly and avoid sharp bends or twists. The manual advises against over-torquing the JIC hose fitting ends, as this can lead to fractures. The flare nut should be hand-tightened and aligned to prevent pinching or pulling by moving parts.
Blade Adjustment and Maintenance
The attack angle of the blade can be adjusted to optimize plowing performance based on the specific conditions. The manual provides instructions for adjusting the attack angle, which involves loosening the lower quadrant locknuts and repositioning the blade to the desired angle. The upper quadrant fasteners are then reinstalled to secure the blade in place.
For the HDX™ adjustable attack angle blade, the process is similar. The manual specifies that the lower quadrant locknuts should be loosened but not removed. The blade is then aligned to the desired angle, and the upper quadrant fasteners are reinstalled on both sides of the quadrant.
Regular greasing of the XV2 pivot pin hinge is also recommended to maintain smooth operation and prevent wear. The manual provides instructions for applying grease to the hinge and ensuring that it is properly lubricated.
Safety Considerations
Safety is a critical aspect of operating and maintaining the Fisher Minute Mount 2 snowplow. The manual includes several important safety warnings that must be followed to prevent injury and equipment damage.
Ventilation and Fire Hazards: Gasoline and battery fumes are highly flammable and can be explosive. The manual warns against smoking or using open flames near the vehicle or snowplow. It also emphasizes the importance of proper ventilation when working on the vehicle’s electrical and hydraulic systems.
Battery Safety: Batteries produce explosive gases that can cause serious injury. The manual advises against allowing flames, sparks, or lit tobacco to come near the battery when charging or working on the system.
Noise and Vibration: The snowplow is designed to operate below 70 dB(A) for the operator, and vibration levels do not exceed 2.5 m/s. However, prolonged exposure to noise and vibration should be avoided to prevent hearing loss and other health issues.
Personal Protective Equipment: The manual recommends wearing safety goggles to protect the eyes from battery acid, gasoline, dirt, and dust. It also advises against touching hot surfaces such as the engine, radiator, and exhaust pipes.
Conclusion
The Fisher Minute Mount 2 snowplow system is a reliable and efficient solution for professional snow removal. Its quick-mount design, durable construction, and advanced hydraulic system make it a valuable tool for commercial and industrial users. Proper installation and regular maintenance are essential for ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
By following the detailed instructions provided in the Fisher manual, users can install the snowplow correctly and maintain the hydraulic system to prevent breakdowns and extend the life of the equipment. Safety should always be a top priority, and all warnings and precautions should be strictly followed.