Blizzard LP-8 User manual

November 1, 2012
Lit. No. 43991, Rev. 01
This manual supersedes all editions with an earlier date.
CAUTION
Read this manual before installing or
operating the spreader.
This manual is for BLIZZARD®LP-8 Tailgate Spreaders with serial numbers
beginning with 090324 and higher.
Low-Profile Tailgate Spreader
94444
LP-8
Owner's Manual
Original Instructions

Lit. No. 43991, Rev. 01 3 November 1, 2012
Register your spreader online at www.blizzardplows.com
Owner Name: ______________________________________________________________________________
Date Purchased: ____________________________________________________________________________
Dealer Name: ______________________________________________ Phone: _________________________
Dealer Address:_____________________________________________________________________________
Vehicle Model/Year: _________________________________________________________________________
Spreader Type/Size (Model):_________________________________________ Weight: ______________ lb/kg
Spreader Serial Number:______________________________________________________________________
SPREADER OWNER DATA SHEET

Lit. No. 43991, Rev. 01 5 November 1, 2012
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SPREADER OWNER DATA SHEET.......................... 3
PREFACE.................................................................... 6
SAFETY INFORMATION............................................ 7
Safety Definitions.................................................. 7
Safety Precautions................................................ 7
Fuses .................................................................... 8
Personal Safety..................................................... 8
Fire and Explosion ................................................ 8
Cell Phones........................................................... 8
Ventilation ............................................................. 8
Battery Safety ....................................................... 8
Noise..................................................................... 8
Vibration................................................................ 8
Torque Chart ......................................................... 9
Warning and Caution Labels .............................. 10
Serial Number Label ........................................... 11
LOADING .................................................................. 12
Certification......................................................... 12
Approximate Material Weights............................ 12
MOUNTING THE SPREADER ................................. 13
Receiver Mount Spreader................................... 13
SWING AWAY®Spreader ................................... 13
OPERATING THE SPREADER................................ 14
Driving and Spreading on Snow and Ice ............ 14
Variable Speed (PWM) Control........................... 14
Starting and Stopping the Motor .................. 14
Adjusting the Spinner Speed........................ 15
Blast/Maximum Speed ................................. 15
Diagnostic Indicator Light ............................. 15
REMOVING THE SPREADER ................................. 16
Receiver Mount................................................... 16
Removing the Spreader ............................... 16
SWING AWAY Mount.......................................... 16
Removing the Spreader ............................... 16
Removing the Top Brackets ......................... 16
Removing the Base Plates ........................... 16
MAINTENANCE........................................................ 17
Preseason Check................................................ 17
After Each Use.................................................... 17
Postseason Maintenance.................................... 18
Drive Belt Replacement ...................................... 18
Bearing and Set Screw Maintenance ................. 19
Fuse Replacement.............................................. 19
Recycle ............................................................... 19
4-PIN HARNESS WIRING DIAGRAM ..................... 20
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE ................................. 21

Lit. No. 43991, Rev. 01 6 November 1, 2012
PREFACE
This manual has been prepared to acquaint you with
the safety information, operation and maintenance of
your new spreader. Please read this manual carefully
and follow all recommendations. This will help ensure
profitable and trouble-free operation of your spreader.
Keep this manual accessible. It is a handy reference in
case minor service is required.
When service is necessary, bring your spreader to
your local dealer. They know your spreader best and
are interested in your complete satisfaction.
NOTE: This spreader is designed to spread
snow- and ice-control materials only. Do not use
it for purposes other than those specified in this
manual.

Lit. No. 43991, Rev. 01 7 November 1, 2012
NOTE: Lubricate grease fittings after each use.
Use a good quality multipurpose grease.
CAUTION
Disconnect electric and/or hydraulic power
and tag out if required before servicing or
performing maintenance.
SAFETY INFORMATION
SAFETY DEFINITIONS
NOTE: Indicates a situation or action that can lead
to damage to your spreader and vehicle or other
property. Other useful information can also be
described.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Park the vehicle on a level surface, place shift lever in
PARK or NEUTRAL and set the parking brake. Turn
OFF the engine and remove keys.
WARNING
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation
that, if not avoided, could result in death or
serious personal injury.
CAUTION
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation
that, if not avoided, may result in minor to
moderate injury. It may also be used to alert
against unsafe practices.
WARNING
• Driver to keep bystanders minimum of
25 feet away from operating spreader.
• Before working with the spreader, secure all
loose-fitting clothing and unrestrained hair.
• Before operating the spreader, verify all
safety guards are in place.
• Before servicing the spreader, wait for
conveyor or spinner to stop, then lock out
power.
• Do not climb into or ride on spreader.
CAUTION
If rear directional, CHMSL light or brake
stoplights are obstructed by the spreader,
the lights shall be relocated, or auxiliary
directional or brake stoplights shall be
installed.
CAUTION
• Do not operate a spreader in need of
maintenance.
• Before operating the spreader, reassemble
any parts or hardware removed for cleaning
or adjusting.
• Before operating the spreader, remove
materials such as cleaning rags, brushes
and hand tools from the spreader.
• While operating the spreader, use auxiliary
warning lights, except when prohibited by law.
• Tighten all fasteners according to the
Torque Chart. Refer to Torque Chart for the
recommended torque values.
WARNING
Do not install the control for this product in
the deployment path of an air bag. Refer to
vehicle manufacturer's manual for air bag
deployment area(s).
CAUTION
During the hopper installation we recommend
the addition of an OSHA compliant Backup
Alarm. This alarm is required for OSHA
governed employers.
CAUTION
DO NOT leave unused material in
hopper. Material can freeze or solidify,
causing unit to not work properly.
Empty and clean after each use.
WARNING
Overloading could result in an
accident or damage. Do not exceed
GVWR or GAWR ratings as found
on the driver-side vehicle door
cornerpost. See Loading section to determine
maximum volumes of spreading material.

Lit. No. 43991, Rev. 01 8 November 1, 2012
VENTILATION
BATTERY SAFETY
NOISE
Airborne noise emission during use is below 70 dB(A)
for the spreader operator.
VIBRATION
Operating spreader vibration does not exceed 2.5 m/s2
to the hand-arm or 0.5 m/s2to the whole body.
SAFETY INFORMATION
CAUTION
Batteries normally produce explosive gases,
which can cause personal injury. Therefore,
do not allow flames, sparks, or lit tobacco
to come near the battery. When charging or
working near a battery, always cover your
face and protect your eyes, and also provide
ventilation.
• Batteries contain sulfuric acid, which burns
skin, eyes and clothing.
• Disconnect the battery before removing or
replacing any electrical components.
FUSES
The electrical system contains automotive blade-style
fuses. If a problem should occur and fuse replacement
is necessary, the replacement fuse must be of the
same type and amperage rating as the original.
Installing a fuse with a higher rating can damage the
system and could start a fire. Fuse Replacement,
including fuse ratings and locations, is located in the
Maintenance section of this Owner's Manual.
PERSONAL SAFETY
• Remove ignition key and put the vehicle in park or
in gear to prevent others from starting the vehicle
during installation or service.
• Wear only snug-fitting clothing while working on
your vehicle or spreader.
• Do not wear jewelry or a necktie, and secure long
hair.
• Wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from
battery acid, gasoline, dirt and dust.
• Avoid touching hot surfaces such as the engine,
radiator, hoses and exhaust pipes.
• Always have a fire extinguisher rated BC handy,
for flammable liquids and electrical fires.
FIRE AND EXPLOSION
Be careful when using gasoline. Do not use gasoline
to clean parts. Store only in approved containers away
from sources of heat or flame.
CELL PHONES
A driver's first responsibility is the safe operation of
the vehicle. The most important thing you can do
to prevent a crash is to avoid distractions and pay
attention to the road. Wait until it is safe to operate
Mobile Communication Equipment such as cell phones,
text messaging devices, pagers or two-way radios.
WARNING
Vehicle exhaust contains lethal fumes.
Breathing these fumes, even in low
concentrations, can cause death. Never
operate a vehicle in an enclosed area without
venting exhaust to the outside.

Lit. No. 43991, Rev. 01 9 November 1, 2012
Recommended Fastener Torque
Chart (ft-lb)
Size
Torque
SAE
Grade 2
SAE
Grade 5
SAE
Grade 8
1/4-20 6 9 13
5/16-18 11 18 28
3/8-16 19 31 46
3/8-24 24 46 68
7/16-14 30 50 75
1/2-13 45 75 115
9/16-12 66 110 165
5/8-11 93 150 225
3/4-10 150 250 370
7/8-9 150 378 591
1-8 220 583 893
Metric Grade 8.8 (ft-lb)
Size Torque Size Torque
M 6 7 M 12 60
M 8 17 M 14 95
M 10 35 M 16 155
These torque values apply to fasteners
except those noted in the instruction.
SAFETY INFORMATION
CAUTION
Read instructions before assembling.
Fasteners should be finger tight until
instructed to tighten according to torque
chart. Use standard methods and practices
when attaching spreader including proper
personal protective safety equipment.
TORQUE CHART

Lit. No. 43991, Rev. 01 10 November 1, 2012
Warning/Caution Label (both sides)
SAFETY INFORMATION
Warning Label
(receiver mount only)
Caution Label (both sides,
SWING AWAY®mount only)
WARNING/CAUTION LABELS
Please become familiar with the Warning and Caution
labels on the spreader.
NOTE: If labels are missing or cannot be read, see
your sales outlet.

Lit. No. 43991, Rev. 01 11 November 1, 2012
Code Definition
YY 2-Digit Year
MM 2-Digit Month
DD 2-Digit Day
LL 2-Digit Location Code
XXXX 4-Digit Sequential Number
ZZZZZZ 5–7-Digit Assembly PN
SERIAL NUMBER LABEL
##############################
YYMMDDLLXXXXZZZZZ
YYMMDDLLXXXXZZZZZ
SAFETY INFORMATION

Lit. No. 43991, Rev. 01 12 November 1, 2012
LOADING
This manual covers vehicles that have been
recommended for carrying the spreader. Please see
your local dealer for proper vehicle applications.
CERTIFICATION
APPROXIMATE MATERIAL WEIGHTS
NOTE: If spreader and ice-control material loading
is in doubt, weigh vehicle for compliance with
vehicle ratings.
NOTE: Use only dry, free-flowing granular
materials with this spreader. Damp or wet
ice-control materials and other products may not
spread properly.
WARNING
Overloading could result in an accident or
damage. Do not exceed GVWR or GAWR
ratings as found on the driver-side vehicle
door cornerpost.
WARNING
New untitled vehicle installation of a spreader
requires National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration altered vehicle certification
labeling. Installer to verify that struck load of
snow or ice control material does not exceed
GVWR or GAWR rating label and complies
with FMVSS.
CAUTION
Read and adhere to manufacturer's
ice-control material package
labeling, including Material Safety
Data Sheet requirements.
Salt = 40 lb/cu ft (avg.)
Very Coarse = 35 lb/cu ft
Coarse = 45 lb/cu ft
Fine = 50 lb/cu ft
LP-8
Cu Ft Lb
8.0 320
3.1 124
5.9 236
Plus approximate base unit weight of 154 lb for LP-8 Model, including mount.

Lit. No. 43991, Rev. 01 13 November 1, 2012
MOUNTING THE SPREADER
RECEIVER MOUNT SPREADER
NOTE: The spreader shall be installed according
to instructions supplied. Your local outlet is
trained to provide this service and service your
spreader with factory original parts.
1. Attach the spreader to the receiver mount with six
3/8"-16 x 1" cap screws.
2. Insert the assembled unit into the receiver hitch
and secure with pin (not included).
3. Plug the spreader harness into the vehicle
harness.
4. Use the supplied ratchet straps to secure the
assembly to the vehicle frame.
Attaching the straps to the vehicle bumper or
tailgate may result in vehicle or spreader damage.
CAUTION
During removal or mounting, securely grip
spreader to avoid dropping.
SWING AWAY®SPREADER
NOTE: The spreader shall be installed according
to instructions supplied. Your local outlet is
trained to provide this service and service your
spreader with factory original parts.
1. Fasten the left and right top brackets along with
any shims to the truck bed rail with two 1/2" cap
screws, two 1/2" flat washers and two 1/2" locknuts
per bracket. Install the two 5/16" cap screws and
locknuts to the side of the top brackets.
2. Place the left and right base plates on the bumper
of the truck and line up with the holes in the bumper.
3. Attach the base plates to the bumper using three
3/8" cap screws, three 3/8" plain washers, any
shims and three 3/8" locknuts per side.
4. Place the spreader on the base plates and insert
the hinge pins. Secure the hinge side by installing
one 1/4" cap screw and 1/4" locknut through the
hole in the base plate boss and hinge pin.
5. Install hitch pin clip through the base plate boss
and the removable hinge pin.
6. Plug the spreader harness into the vehicle harness.
7. Plug the center high mounted stoplight (CHMSL)
cord into the vehicle stoplight harness.
CAUTION
During removal or mounting, securely grip
spreader to avoid dropping.

Lit. No. 43991, Rev. 01 14 November 1, 2012
DRIVING AND SPREADING ON SNOW
AND ICE
Follow your vehicle owner's manual instructions for
driving in snow and ice conditions. Remember, when
you drive on snow or ice, your wheels will not get good
traction. You cannot accelerate as quickly, turning
is more difficult, and you will need longer braking
distance. Wet and hard packed snow or ice offer the
worst tire traction. It is very easy to lose control. You
will have difficulty accelerating. If you do get moving,
you may have poor steering and difficult braking,
which can cause you to slide out of control.
Here are some tips for driving in these conditions:
• Drive defensively.
• Do not drink, then drive or spread ice-control
materials.
• Spread or drive only when you have good visibility
for operating a vehicle.
• If you cannot see well due to snow or icy
conditions, you will need to slow down and keep
more space between you and other vehicles.
• Slow down, especially on higher-speed roads.
Your headlamps can light up only so much road
ahead.
• If you are tired, pull off in a safe place and rest.
• The spreader’s size and location reduce driver
visibility to the rear of the vehicle. We recommend
an OSHA compliant backup alarm for all governed
employers.
• Keep your windshield and all glass on your vehicle
clean to see around you.
• Dress properly for the weather. Wear layers of
clothing; as you get warm, you can take off layers.
CAUTION
Drinking and then driving or spreading is
very dangerous. Your reflexes, perceptions,
attentiveness and judgement can be affected
by even a small amount of alcohol. You can
have a serious or even fatal collision if you
drive after drinking. Please do not drink then
drive or spread ice-control materials.
OPERATING THE SPREADER
VARIABLE SPEED (PWM) CONTROL
Starting and Stopping the Motor
1. To start the spreader motor, press the
START/BLAST button and release. Both the
START/BLAST and OFF buttons will be backlit
when the motor is running. The spreader will
operate at the speed selected on the speed dial.
2. Press the OFF button to stop the motor.
The OFF button operates as an emergency stop
when required.
NOTE: The truck ignition must be ON to start the
spreader.
NOTE: If the truck ignition is turned OFF while the
spreader is running, the motor will stop.
WARNING
Before starting the spreader, the driver shall
verify that all bystanders are a minimum of
25 feet away from operating spreader.
Speed Dial
ON/Maximum
Speed Button
Diagnostic
Indicator Light
OFF Button (emergency
stop when required)
CAUTION
If the unit is equipped with a SWING AWAY®
mount, both hinge pins must be secured in
the base plates before operating the spreader
or the vehicle.

Lit. No. 43991, Rev. 01 15 November 1, 2012
Adjusting the Spinner Speed
The speed setting can be adjusted when the spreader
is either ON or OFF.
1. Turn the speed dial clockwise. The speed will
increase as the number of green LEDs illuminated
on the speed dial increases.
2. Turning the speed dial counterclockwise will
decrease the speed.
Blast/Maximum Speed
1. Press and hold the START/BLAST button as long
as maximum speed is needed.
2. Release the button when maximum speed is no
longer needed. The control automatically returns
to the "ON" position and the speed shown on the
speed dial.
NOTE: When BLAST is used, the speed dial does
not move to the maximum speed setting, but
remains at the preset speed.
Diagnostic Indicator Light
The diagnostic indicator light located to the right of the
START/BLAST button remains dark unless a problem
with the motor or wiring is detected. The light will flash
a number of flashes in a row, pause, then repeat.
Count the flashes to determine the nature of the
malfunction and refer to the diagnostic chart below.
# of
Flashes Problem Possible Causes
0Nofault –
2 No power Battery fuse is blown, or battery
cable is disconnected or faulty.
3 No motor Motor is disconnected.
4Noground
Spreader harness ground is
disconnected or faulty.
5Overheated
Motor OFF due to controller
overheat, possibly caused by
frozen or jammed spreader.
6Excess
current
Over 35A for more than
1–2 seconds. (Higher overloads
are allowed for shorter periods.)
If additional information is needed, refer to the
Troubleshooting section of this manual.
NOTE: Always place the cover on the hopper to
prevent moisture buildup. Do not let the spreader
sit idle with material in the hopper for an extended
period of time. This can cause the material to
compact and reduce or stop the flow of material.
OPERATING THE SPREADER
CAUTION
Do not swing spreader with material in the
hopper.

Lit. No. 43991, Rev. 01 16 November 1, 2012
RECEIVER MOUNT
Removing the Spreader
1. Unplug the spreader.
2. Remove the pin from the receiver hitch.
3. Remove the spreader from the vehicle and stand it
in an upright position. This may require additional
support.
REMOVING THE SPREADER
CAUTION
During removal or mounting, securely grip the
spreader to avoid dropping.
SWING AWAY®MOUNT
Removing the Spreader
1. Unplug the spreader and CHMSL.
2. Remove the hitch pin from the latch-side hinge pin.
3. Remove the 1/4" cap screw and locknut from the
hinged-side hinge pin.
4. Use an additional person to support the unit and
remove both hinge pins.
5. Remove the spreader from the vehicle and stand
in an upright position. This may require additional
support.
Removing the Top Brackets
1. Remove the two 1/2" cap screws, washers and
locknuts that fasten each top bracket to the
bed rail.
2. Remove the two 5/16" cap screws and locknuts
that fasten each top bracket to the side of the
bed rail.
3. Mark the location of any shims to aid in
reinstallation.
4. Package the brackets with all hardware and store
with the unit.
Removing the Base Plates
1. Remove the four 3/8" cap screws, washers,
locknuts and any shims that fasten the base plate
to the bumper.
2. Mark the location of the shims to aid in
reinstallation.
3. Package the base plates with all hardware and
store with the unit.
CAUTION
Empty the hopper before removing the
spreader.

Lit. No. 43991, Rev. 01 17 November 1, 2012
MAINTENANCE
PRESEASON CHECK
Before the unit is placed in service for the ice control
season, make sure that it is in top working condition.
Here are some tips for getting your spreader ready.
Remove the motor cap assembly and inspect the
following:
1. Check the condition of the drive belt. Any cracks
or damaged teeth indicate the need for a new belt.
See "Drive Belt Replacement" in this section.
2. Check the motor connection terminals for damage
or corrosion. Clean or replace as necessary and
coat with dielectric grease.
3. Check the condition of the drive shaft bearings by
first removing the drive belt. To remove the drive
belt see "Drive Belt Replacement" in this section.
With the drive belt removed, spin the drive shaft
by hand. Any excess noise or roughness in either
bearing may indicate bearing failure.
4. If bearings pass inspection be sure to thoroughly
grease them with a good quality multipurpose
grease. See "Bearing and Set Screw
Maintenance" in this section.
5. Verify that all drive sprocket set screws are tight.
Verify that all other fasteners are tight. Refer to the
Torque Chart in the Safety section of this manual.
6. Check the condition of the motor cap assembly
seal. This seal is very important to the reliability of
the unit. Replace the seal if needed.
7. Check the condition of the spinner disk. If the vanes
are excessively worn, the unit may not spread as
intended. Replace the spinner if necessary.
8. Replace the motor cap assembly and locknuts.
9. Verify that vehicle stoplights and spreader CHMSL
are visible and working properly.
AFTER EACH USE
Disconnect the electrical plug located between the
spreader and the truck before cleaning.
1. Thoroughly clean the unit inside and out using
tap water or a high-pressure washer. Avoid
spraying water into bearings, motor and electrical
connections. A long-handled brush can be used to
aid cleaning.
2. Apply dielectric grease to all electrical connections
to prevent corrosion.
3. Lubricate the drive shaft bearings with a good
quality multipurpose grease.
CAUTION
• Do not operate a spreader in need of
maintenance.
• Before operating the spreader, reassemble
any parts or hardware removed for cleaning
or adjusting.
• Before operating the spreader, remove
materials such as cleaning rags, brushes
and hand tools from the spreader.
• Empty and clean spreader after every use.
Material can freeze or solidify, causing unit
to not work properly.
CAUTION
Disconnect electric power at spreader
electrical wiring harness connection and tag
out if required before servicing or performing
maintenance.

Lit. No. 43991, Rev. 01 18 November 1, 2012
DRIVE BELT REPLACEMENT
Disconnect the electrical plug between the spreader
and truck before drive belt replacement.
1. Remove the motor cap assembly.
2. Loosen the four Phillips head screws that fasten
the motor mount to the drive support.
3. Slide the motor toward the drive shaft.
4. Remove the belt and replace with a new one.
5. Slide the motor mount away from the drive
shaft until the proper tension of the drive belt is
achieved. After tightening the belt should easily
deflect 3/8".
6. Tighten the four Phillips head screws and replace
the motor cap.
CAUTION
Overtightening the belt may result in damage
to the motor or bearings.
Phillips Head Screws
Belt deflects
approx. 3/8"
MAINTENANCE
POSTSEASON MAINTENANCE
Before storing the unit for the off-season, taking a few
minutes to do the following will extend the service life
of your spreader:
1. Thoroughly clean the unit inside and out.
2. Apply dielectric grease to all electrical connections
to prevent corrosion.
3. Grease the drive shaft bearings.
4. Oil or paint all bare metal surfaces.
5. Place the lid on the hopper body of the unit and
secure the latch.
6. Store the unit in an upright position; stabilize it
with supports if necessary. If the unit is stored
outdoors, cover the unit and place it on blocks to
avoid ground moisture.

Lit. No. 43991, Rev. 01 19 November 1, 2012
FUSE REPLACEMENT
See the Harness Wiring Diagrams on the following
pages for fuse ratings and locations.
If a problem should occur and fuse replacement is
necessary, the replacement fuse must be of the same
type and amperage rating as the original. Installing a
fuse with a higher rating can damage the system and
could start a fire.
RECYCLE
When your spreader has performed its useful life,
the majority of its components can be recycled as
steel. Gear oil shall be disposed of according to local
regulations. Balance of parts made of plastic shall be
disposed of in customary manner.
BEARING AND SET SCREW
MAINTENANCE
Disconnect the electrical plug between the spreader
and the truck before performing any maintenance.
1. Tighten all set screws shown after every 60 hours
of use.
2. Grease the top and bottom drive shaft bearings as
shown, using a good quality multipurpose grease.
Due to the harsh environment of the bottom
bearing, it will require more maintenance than the
top bearing.
MAINTENANCE
Lubricate drive shaft bearings with
a good quality multipurpose grease.
Top Bearing
Set Screw
Shaft Pulley
Set Screw
Motor Pulley
Set Screw
Bottom Bearing: Grease
after every 8 hours of use.
Top Bearing: Grease after
every 60 hours of use.
Bottom
Bearing
Set Screw
Thru Bolt
Auger
Set Screw

Lit. No. 43991, Rev. 01 20 November 1, 2012
4-PIN HARNESS WIRING DIAGRAM – LOW-PROFILE SPREADERS
Battery
+
_
Motor
To CHMSL
(if desired –
not included)
14 ga
Orange
8 ga
Black
8 ga
Red
8 ga Black
8 ga Red
14 ga
Black
14 ga
Black
(to CHMSL)
Split Loom Tubing
14 ga Yellow
Accessory Circuit
Not used
Not used
+
30 Amp Fuse
10 ga Red
To vehicle ignition
(accessory wire or
fuse box)
14 ga Red
6 Amp Fuse
Two-Way Molded
Connector
Motor Specification: 12 Volt DC, .56 kW
14 ga Yellow
Accessory Circuit
(12 Amp MAX)
Spreader Wiring Harness
Vehicle Wiring Harness
To vehicle
CHMSL signal
(if desired)
14 ga Orange
8 ga Black
14 ga Black
8 ga Red
8 ga Red
Red Connector
White Connector
Cab Control