Get Winter-Ready: Northland Equipment's Guide to Choosing the Right WESTERN® Snowplow & Spreader
- Sep 1, 2025
- 4 min read
At Northland Equipment, snow and ice isn't just another product category—it's what we do best. As an authorized WESTERN® dealer since 1977, we've upfitted hundreds of trucks with the right plows and spreaders to handle brutal Midwest winters.
When you buy from us, you don't just get the toughest equipment on the market — you get the knowledge, installation quality, and support that keeps you working all season long.
But with so many options, how do you know which setup is right for your truck and your work? This guide walks you through the essentials, helping you understand plows and spreaders, compare the WESTERN® lineup, and how Northland Equipment makes sure you get the right setup the first time.
Why Choose Northland Equipment for Your WESTERN® Gear?
We're snow and ice experts. With decades of experience upfitting trucks,
we know WESTERN® plows and spreaders inside and out.
We match the right equipment to your truck. No overloaded axles, no undersized setups—just the right fit for performance, safety, and longevity.
We stand behind every install. From color-coded wiring to final quality checks, every upfit leaves our shop ready to perform.
We're local. Need support after a snowstorm? We're right here in Janesville, Wisconsin with the parts and service you need.
Snowplows: The WESTERN® Lineup
WESTERN® plows are built tough, and we know them inside and out. Here's how we help you choose:
Straight Blade Plows
Perfect for driveways, small lots, and light commercial work.
We recommend these for customers starting out or handling lighter routes.
V-Plows (MVP 3™, MVP PLUS™)
A favorite among contractors. Switch between V, scoop, and straight modes for maximum versatility.
Great for contractors managing a mix of residential and commercial routes.
Winged & Expandable Plows
(WIDE-OUT™ Series)
Reduce passes and clear large parking lots faster.
Ideal for large lots and fleets that need to move serious snow, fast.
Specialty Options
From the HTS™ for lighter trucks to the PRO PLUS® for municipal fleets, we'll make sure your truck is equipped with the plow it's built to handle.
WESTERN® UltraMount® system makes attaching/detaching fast and easy.
2A. Poly vs Steel Plows: Which Is Right For You?
Poly | Steel | |
✅Pros | Lightweight, dent-resistant, non-stick surface, quieter operation, good for sticky snow, paving protection | Superior durability, rigid and efficient, classic and durable |
⚠️Cons | More expensive than steel | Prone to rust, increased weight, snow sticking, louder operation |
⭐Best For | Users who plow long shifts (less snow buildup saves time/fuel), those concerned about appearance/rust, and if you're looking to reduce weight on your truck | Contractors who need a reliable workhorse, commercial users moving heavy/wet snow, or buyers who want the most budget-friendly upfront option |
Northland Pro Tip:
Think about how much you'll plow and what conditions you'll face. For heavy commercial work, steel often makes sense. For residential routes or fleets looking to minimize maintenance, poly might be worth the investment.
2B. Halogen vs. LED Plow Headlights: Which Should You Choose?
Halogen | LED | |
✅Pros | Lower upfront cost, proven technology, widely available replacement bulbs | Extremely bright, daylight-like visibility, long-lasting (often the life of the plow), low power draw reduces strain on truck's electrical system, great in extreme cold |
⚠️Cons | Dimmer light output compared to LEDs, shorter bulb lifespan, draw more power from your truck's electrical system | Higher upfront cost, entier assemblies may need replacement if damaged (not just bulbs) |
⭐Best For | Budget-conscious buyers or those who plow less frequently and don't mind replacing bulbs more often. | Professional contractors plowing overnight or in heavy storms, fleets that value long-term efficiency, and anyone who wants maximum visibility and safety |
If you plow a few driveways after work, halogens may be enough. But if you're out all night in tough conditions, LEDs will pay for themselves in visibility and reduced downtime.
Read more about the benefits of WESTERN® NIGHTHAWK™ LED Headlights.
Spreaders: The WESTERN® Lineup
Plowing is only half the job — ice control keeps surfaces safe and contracts locked in. WESTERN® spreaders cover every need:
Tailgate Spreaders
(LOW-PRO 300, 500, 1000, 2500)
Compact and affordable.
Ideal for sidewalks, driveways, and smaller commercial jobs.
Broadcast Spreaders
(PRO-FLO™ 525 & 900)
Handles large volumes of salt, sand, or mixed materials.
Rugged and reliable for municipalities or large contractors.
Hopper Spreaders (MARAUDER™)
Available in poly or stainless steel construction
Optimized dual motor design for independent control of the spinner and conveyor
Do You Need Both a Plow and a Spreader?
From our experience, most professional contractors need both a plow and a spreader to stay competitive. Plows clear snow, but spreaders keep your customers' lots safe and ice-free.
By investing in both you:
Increase contract value (more services to offer).
Work efficiently (fewer callbacks after storms).
Build customer trust (they know you handle everything).
Pairing a WESTERN® plow with a WESTERN® spreader means you're fully equipped to handle whatever winter throws at you.
Key Buying Considerations for Your WESTERN® Setup
Before you decide on a plow, spreader, or both, here's a quick checklist to help you think through the essentials:
Truck Compatibility - Does the plow or spreader fit your truck's weight rating, axle capacity, and electrical systems? (We'll make sure it does).
Type of Work - Are you handling residential driveways, commercial lots, or municipal routes?
Snowfall & Site Size - Light snow and small spaces may only need a straight blade, while heavy storms and big lots call for V-plows, wings, and larger spreaders.
Budget vs. ROI - Factor not just the upfront cost, but also how much faster you'll complete jobs (and how much more you can take on).
Ease of Use - Western's mounting systems, handheld controls, and electrical spreaders are built for efficiency—but certain models simplify things even further.
Maintenance & Parts - Consider long-term support. At Northland Equipment, we stock WESTERN® parts and service everything we sell.
Future Growth - Will your business grow into bigger accounts? Choosing the right plow/spreader today can save you from upgrading too soon.
Ready to Gear Up for Winter?
Whether you're upfitting your first truck or upgrading an entire fleet, choosing the right snow and ice control equipment is an investment in your productivity, safety, and success throughout the winter season. With WESTERN®, you get an industry-leading lineup of plows and spreaders plus Northland Equipment's decades of expertise. You can be confident you're getting the right equipment for your truck and your operation.
If you're still unsure which setup is best for your needs, our team is here to help. Stop by, give s a call, or connect with our snow and ice equipment specialist. We'll make sure you're ready to take on whatever winter brings.
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