Operating Tips
Avoid back dragging
Back dragging reduces cutting edge life by causing it to break before it wears down.
Minimize excessive down pressure
Buckets last longer if the operator minimizes the amount of pressure applied when the bucket is engaged with the ground.
Avoid using blades in wet conditions
Blades wear faster in wet conditions.
Equipment Tips
Use corner attachments
Corner guards increase the bucket’s strength. Not using corner guards can cause premature wear.
Use a thicker edge
More powerful machines can use thicker edges, and, in most cases, they should.
For grader blades, consider using single bevel curved blades instead of double bevel curved
The leading bevel on double bevel curved blades wears out quickly, turning it into a single bevel curved blade. Single bevel curved blades last longer and are more cost effective.
Use proper bolts and nuts
Loose bolts and nuts cause the cutting edge to be loose on the moldboard, which can lead to breakage. Use Grade 8 bolts or higher; lower quality may stretch and loosen.
Rotate the cutting edge consistently
Flipping the blade regularly can double the blade life. The flipping interval depends upon what type of material it’s used for, and the application.
Protect snowplow cutting edges with a standard flat blade
The steel in carbide snow plow blades can erode, causing the carbide inserts to fall out.
Inspection Tips
Inspect loader edge position
The base edge is the primary support for the bucket system, while the primary engagement edge should be the bolt-on cutting edge. If the base edge is worn out, the bucket is not as stable.
Inspect loader wear plates and replace when needed
Increase the life of the bucket and cutting edge by replacing wear plates regularly.
Routinely inspect and secure bolts
Loose cutting edges can easily be damaged and may fall off and damage surrounding equipment.