When selecting a tailgate salt spreader for plow trucks, your main concerns are capacity, durability, and ease of attachment. The Buyers Products SaltDogg TGS07 stands out as the best overall choice thanks to its large capacity and reliable build. The SaltDogg TGS03 offers a solid balance of size and affordability, making it ideal for moderate needs. Meanwhile, the SaltDogg TGSUVPROA is perfect for smaller trucks or lighter-duty applications. These options reflect the common tradeoffs: larger models deliver more capacity but can be heavier and more expensive, while smaller units are easier to handle but may require more frequent refills. Keep reading to see which model fits your specific needs best.
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Key Takeaways
- Capacity varies significantly, with the largest models offering up to 11 cu ft, suitable for extensive winter routes.
- Construction quality and USA-made units generally provide better durability and reliability in harsh conditions.
- Horizontal auger feed systems are common and effective but may have different maintenance needs depending on model.
- Ease of mounting and compatibility with different truck receiver hitches is crucial for quick deployment.
- Price points reflect capacity and build quality, so balancing budget against operational needs is key.
| Buyers Products SaltDogg TGS03 Tailgate Salt Spreader, 8 cu ft/600 lb Capacity, Horizontal Auger Feed, Receiver Hitch Mount |  | Best Overall for Versatile Truck Compatibility | Capacity: 8 cubic feet / 600 lbs | Mounting: Receiver hitch | Hopper Material: Corrosion-proof | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| SaltDogg Buyers Products TGS07 Tailgate Salt Spreader, 11 cu ft/825 lb Capacity, Horizontal Auger Feed, Made in the USA |  | Best for Heavy-Duty Large Truck Use | Capacity: 11 cu ft / 825 lb | Hopper Material: Poly | Drive Type: Electric (12V DC) | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Buyers Products TGSUVPROA SaltDogg Tailgate Salt Spreader, 4.41 cu ft/331 lb Capacity, Made in the USA |  | Best for Light Trucks and Residential Use | Capacity: 4.41 cubic feet / 331 lbs | Material: Poly hopper | Power: 12V DC electric | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Buyers Products SaltDogg TGS06 Tailgate Salt Spreader |  | Best for Heavy-Duty Commercial Trucks | Capacity: 10 cu ft / 750 lb | Material: Poly hopper | Power: 12V DC electric | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Buyers Products SaltDogg SHPE0750 Electric Poly Hopper Spreader |  | Best for Full-Size UTVs and Larger Light Trucks | Capacity: 0.75 Cu. Yds | Hopper Material: Polypropylene | Auger Material: Stainless Steel | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Buyers Products TGS02 SaltDogg Tailgate Salt Spreader, 4 cu ft/300 lbs Capacity, Made in the USA |  | Best for Light Residential Use | Capacity: 4 cubic feet / 300 lbs | Material: Poly hopper, carbon steel frame | Spread Distance: up to 30 ft | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| tailgate salt spreaders for plow truck | Capacity | Mounting | Power | Hopper Material |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buyers Products SaltDogg TGS03 | 8 cubic feet / 600 lbs | Receiver hitch | — | Corrosion-proof |
| SaltDogg Buyers Products TGS07 | 11 cu ft / 825 lb | 2-inch hitch-mount | — | Poly |
| Buyers Products TGSUVPROA Salt | 4.41 cubic feet / 331 lbs | 2-inch hitch-mount | 12V DC electric | — |
| Buyers Products SaltDogg TGS06 | 10 cu ft / 750 lb | Fits 3/4 ton or 1 ton trucks | 12V DC electric | — |
| Buyers Products SaltDogg SHPE0 | 0.75 Cu. Yds | — | 12V DC | Polypropylene |
| Buyers Products TGS02 SaltDogg | 4 cubic feet / 300 lbs | Receiver hitch mount | 12V electric drive | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Buyers Products SaltDogg TGS03 Tailgate Salt Spreader, 8 cu ft/600 lb Capacity, Horizontal Auger Feed, Receiver Hitch Mount
The SaltDogg TGS03 stands out for its balance of capacity and ease of use, making it a versatile choice for various truck sizes. Its corrosion-proof hopper and quiet electric operation ensure durability and minimal noise, outperforming smaller models like the TGS02 in capacity, yet it offers more adaptability than larger, commercial-grade spreaders. The variable speed controls and wide spread distance up to 30 feet give precise coverage, though it requires a 12V power source and can be heavy to install, which might challenge some users. Compared to the TGS07, this model is more suited for lighter-duty applications but still handles significant salt loads comfortably.Pros:- Corrosion-proof hopper for durability
- Quiet electric operation minimizes noise
- Precise variable speed controls for accurate spreading
- Wide distribution up to 30 feet
Cons:- Requires 12V power source which might complicate installation
- Heavy unit may be challenging to handle during mounting
Best for: Medium-duty truck operators needing a reliable, versatile spreader for varied winter conditions
Not ideal for: Heavy-duty commercial fleets or those seeking maximum spread capacity with minimal installation effort
- Capacity:8 cubic feet / 600 lbs
- Mounting:Receiver hitch
- Hopper Material:Corrosion-proof
- Drive Type:Electric, 12V DC
- Spinner Diameter:12 inches
- Spread Distance:Up to 30 feet
Our verdict“This spreader suits users who want a durable, adaptable option for medium-duty applications with good control and spread range.”
SaltDogg Buyers Products TGS07 Tailgate Salt Spreader, 11 cu ft/825 lb Capacity, Horizontal Auger Feed, Made in the USA
The TGS07 excels in handling large salt loads, making it ideal for heavy-duty trucks involved in extensive de-icing tasks. Its larger 11 cubic foot capacity surpasses the TGS03, offering greater efficiency for demanding winter operations. The in-cab adjustable speed control and quiet electric drive provide precise application, but it’s limited to 2-inch hitch mounts, restricting compatibility with smaller trucks. Compared to the TGS03, this model is more suited for large commercial trucks, though it sacrifices some versatility for sheer capacity. The durable poly hopper resists corrosion, ensuring longevity under harsh conditions.Pros:- Large 11 cu ft capacity for extensive spreading
- Corrosion-free poly hopper for longevity
- Precise in-cab adjustable speed controls
- Quiet electric drive for easy operation
Cons:- Limited to 2-inch hitch compatibility
- Primarily designed for salt and salt/sand mixes, limiting versatility
Best for: Commercial fleet operators needing high-capacity spreaders for large trucks
Not ideal for: Small trucks or residential users with light-duty needs
- Capacity:11 cu ft / 825 lb
- Hopper Material:Poly
- Drive Type:Electric (12V DC)
- Spread Range:Up to 30 feet
- Mounting:2-inch hitch-mount
- Made in:USA
Our verdict“This spreader makes the most sense for large trucks requiring high capacity and robust durability for heavy-duty de-icing.”
Buyers Products TGSUVPROA SaltDogg Tailgate Salt Spreader, 4.41 cu ft/331 lb Capacity, Made in the USA
The TGSUVPROA offers a compact, light-duty solution that easily mounts on SUVs and small trucks, making it perfect for residential or light commercial applications. Its 4.4 cubic foot capacity is modest compared to larger models like the TGS06, but its easy installation and quiet electric operation make it appealing for less demanding tasks. The in-cab controls allow precise salt distribution, though its limited capacity restricts use to smaller applications. Unlike the TGS06, which is better suited for heavy-duty needs, this model prioritizes ease of use and versatility for lighter vehicles.Pros:- Easy to install on various small vehicles
- Durable, corrosion-free poly hopper
- Quiet electric operation
- Precise control over salt distribution
Cons:- Limited capacity for larger projects
- Designed mainly for residential or light commercial use
- Limited to rock salt only
Best for: Homeowners or small fleet operators needing a simple, reliable spreader for residential driveways
Not ideal for: Commercial snow removal services or large-scale de-icing operations
- Capacity:4.41 cubic feet / 331 lbs
- Material:Poly hopper
- Power:12V DC electric
- Distribution:Variable speeds, 9-inch poly spinner
- Mounting:2-inch hitch-mount
- Made in:USA
Our verdict“This spreader is best for users who need a compact, low-maintenance solution for smaller, less frequent salt spreading tasks.”
Buyers Products SaltDogg TGS06 Tailgate Salt Spreader
The TGS06 is built for demanding environments, with a 10 cubic foot capacity and a rugged, corrosion-resistant poly hopper. Its compatibility with 3/4 ton and 1-ton trucks makes it the go-to choice for heavy-duty de-icing. The electric drive and adjustable controls enable precise salt application, and its spread distance of up to 30 feet rivals the larger models like the TGS07. Compared to the smaller TGS02, the TGS06 offers significantly increased capacity and durability for commercial operations, though it requires compatible truck mounting and a power source. This model’s robust build and large capacity are tradeoffs for its weight and installation complexity.Pros:- Durable, corrosion-resistant poly hopper
- High 10 cu ft capacity for large projects
- Adjustable flowgate for precise spreading
- Compatible with 3/4 ton or 1-ton trucks
Cons:- Requires suitable truck mounting
- Limited to salt spreading only
- Power source needed for operation
Best for: Commercial operators needing durable, high-capacity spreaders for large trucks
Not ideal for: Small trucks or residential users with limited space and simpler needs
- Capacity:10 cu ft / 750 lb
- Material:Poly hopper
- Power:12V DC electric
- Spread Distance:Up to 30 feet
- Mounting:Fits 3/4 ton or 1 ton trucks
Our verdict“This spreader is ideal for heavy-duty commercial use where capacity and durability outweigh installation effort.”
Buyers Products SaltDogg SHPE0750 Electric Poly Hopper Spreader
The SHPE0750 offers a substantial 0.75 cubic yard capacity, making it suitable for both residential and commercial applications. Its stainless steel auger and double-wall poly hopper resist rust and dents, providing longevity. The in-cab controls allow independent adjustment of auger and spinner speeds, offering more precise spreading than smaller models like the TGS03. Compared to the TGS06, this spreader is more suited for full-size UTVs or 1/2 ton trucks that require a larger capacity without the bulk of commercial-grade units. The setup may seem complex for some, but the included accessories, like remote grease and tarp, justify its premium build.Pros:- Durable stainless steel auger and double-wall poly hopper
- Electric operation for quiet, maintenance-free use
- Independent control of auger and spinner speeds
- Includes useful accessories like remote grease kit
Cons:- Requires minimum vehicle bed length of 41 inches
- Not suitable for large-scale commercial operations
- Setup complexity may be a barrier for some users
Best for: Operators of large UTVs or 1/2 ton trucks needing a high-capacity, precise spreader
Not ideal for: Small trucks or users seeking a lightweight, straightforward spreader for occasional use
- Capacity:0.75 Cu. Yds
- Hopper Material:Polypropylene
- Auger Material:Stainless Steel
- Hopper Dimensions:53 inches long
- Power:12V DC
- Motor Power:1/2 HP (auger), 1/4 HP (spinner)
- Spinner Diameter:14 inches
- Broadcast Radius:5-30 ft
Our verdict“This spreader makes sense for those with full-size UTVs or larger light trucks seeking precise, high-capacity salt spreading capability.”
Buyers Products TGS02 SaltDogg Tailgate Salt Spreader, 4 cu ft/300 lbs Capacity, Made in the USA
The SaltDogg TGS02 stands out for its durable, corrosion-proof poly hopper and straightforward electric controls, making it a reliable choice for homeowners dealing with occasional snow. Compared with larger models like the TGS03, it offers a more manageable capacity—just 4 cubic feet—suitable for smaller projects but limiting for bigger jobs. Its electric drive and quick hitch installation allow for fast setup and precise spreading up to 30 feet, which is more than enough for driveway or small lot use. However, this model isn’t meant for heavy-duty commercial routes or frequent large-scale plowing, where higher capacities are essential. The limited 4 cubic foot capacity means more trips to refill, which could slow down larger operations. This pick makes the most sense for homeowners or small property managers who prioritize ease of use and reliability over volume.
Pros:- Corrosion-proof poly hopper and steel frame ensure longevity
- Electric controls provide precise, even spreading
- Quick hitch mount allows for fast setup
Cons:- Limited capacity means more frequent refills during larger jobs
- Designed primarily for light residential use, not heavy commercial routes
Best for: Homeowners or small property managers needing a lightweight, easy-to-install spreader for occasional use
Not ideal for: Commercial operators or large-scale plow services requiring higher capacity and heavy-duty durability
- Capacity:4 cubic feet / 300 lbs
- Material:Poly hopper, carbon steel frame
- Spread Distance:up to 30 ft
- Power:12V electric drive
- Mounting:Receiver hitch mount
- Made in:USA
Our verdict“This spreader is ideal for homeowners needing a reliable, easy-to-operate option with modest capacity.”
How We Picked
These products were selected based on their capacity, build quality, ease of installation, and overall value for plow truck operators. We prioritized models with proven durability in winter conditions and those with reliable feeding mechanisms. The ranking favors units that balance size with ease of use, especially for commercial or high-volume applications. Additional factors like manufacturing location and compatibility with common truck hitches helped refine the list, ensuring each pick addresses different user needs and budgets.| tailgate salt spreaders for plow truck | Hopper Material | Spread Distance | Material |
|---|---|---|---|
| Buyers Products SaltDogg TGS03 | Corrosion-proof | Up to 30 feet | — |
| SaltDogg Buyers Products TGS07 | Poly | — | — |
| Buyers Products TGSUVPROA Salt | — | — | Poly hopper |
| Buyers Products SaltDogg TGS06 | — | Up to 30 feet | Poly hopper |
| Buyers Products SaltDogg SHPE0 | Polypropylene | — | — |
| Buyers Products TGS02 SaltDogg | — | up to 30 ft | Poly hopper, carbon steel frame |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Tailgate Salt Spreaders For Plow Trucks
Choosing the right tailgate salt spreader involves considering several key factors beyond just size and price. Understanding these considerations can help prevent costly mistakes and ensure you select a unit that performs reliably year after year.Capacity and Coverage Area
Determine how much salt you need to spread in a typical session. Larger capacities reduce refill frequency but add weight and cost. For extensive winter routes, models with 8 to 11 cubic feet are ideal, while lighter-duty needs may be better served by smaller units. Consider your truck’s payload capacity to avoid overloading, which could damage your vehicle or reduce safety.
Build Quality and Materials
Durability is essential for equipment exposed to snow, ice, and road salt. Look for models with corrosion-resistant components, such as stainless steel or high-density polyethylene hoppers. While USA-made units often offer better craftsmanship, they can come at a higher price. Cheaper models may save money upfront but could require more frequent repairs or replacements.
Mounting Compatibility and Ease of Installation
Most tailgate spreaders attach via receiver hitch, but mounting mechanisms vary. Some models feature quick-attach systems that save time, while others require more complex setup. Confirm that the spreader fits your truck’s hitch class and that installation instructions are clear. Ease of mounting and removal can significantly impact operational efficiency, especially during tight winter schedules.
Feeding Mechanism and Spread Pattern
The auger feed system influences how evenly salt is distributed. Horizontal augers are common and effective, but some models include adjustable spread patterns for better control. Consider how much control you need over the application rate, especially if you deal with varying road conditions. Maintenance of the feeding mechanism is also worth considering—simpler designs often require less upkeep.
Price and Overall Value
While larger, more feature-rich units cost more, they often deliver better long-term value for high-volume users. Balance your budget against your operational demands. Sometimes, investing a bit more upfront in a high-quality, durable model can reduce repair costs and downtime later. Ensure that the selected spreader provides features that align with your typical workload to avoid paying for unnecessary extras.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a standard tailgate salt spreader on any truck?
Most tailgate salt spreaders are designed to fit standard receiver hitches, but compatibility depends on your truck’s hitch class and available space. It’s important to verify the hitch type and weight capacity to ensure safe operation. Some models are adjustable or come with mounting kits that fit a range of trucks, but always double-check specifications before purchasing.
How often will I need to refill a salt spreader during winter storms?
The refill frequency depends on the capacity of your chosen model and the severity of snow conditions. Larger units like the SaltDogg TGS07 can cover extensive areas with fewer refills, making them ideal for commercial use. Smaller models will require more frequent stops, which could impact efficiency during heavy snowfall. Planning for multiple refills is wise if you expect long storm durations.
Are electric salt spreaders better than gravity-fed models?
Electric spreaders, such as the SaltDogg SHPE0750, often provide more precise control over application rates and spread patterns, which can enhance efficiency and reduce material waste. However, they require a power source and may need more maintenance. Gravity-fed models are simpler, more rugged, and often more affordable, but they might lack the same level of control and consistency. Your choice depends on your operational needs and maintenance preferences.
What maintenance does a salt spreader require?
Regular maintenance includes cleaning after each use to prevent salt buildup and corrosion, inspecting auger and gearbox components, and lubricating moving parts as recommended. Checking for rust or damage before winter season ensures reliable performance during critical operations. Proper storage during off-season months also prolongs the life of your equipment, especially for models exposed to harsh conditions.
Is capacity more important than spread pattern accuracy?
Capacity is vital for covering large areas with fewer stops, but spread pattern accuracy directly impacts safety and material efficiency. An even distribution prevents icy patches and reduces salt waste. Ideally, choose a model that balances a generous capacity with adjustable spread controls. For high-volume operations, capacity might take precedence, but for detailed applications, precision control can be more beneficial.
Conclusion
For high-volume, professional plow operations, the Buyers Products SaltDogg TGS07 offers unmatched capacity and durability, making it the best overall choice. Budget-conscious buyers or those with lighter workloads should consider the SaltDogg TGS03 for its solid performance at a lower price. If ease of use and quick mounting are priorities, the SaltDogg TGSUVPROA is a smart pick. For newcomers or occasional use, the simpler, smaller models provide reliable performance without complexity. Ultimately, selecting the right spreader depends on your specific needs—size, budget, and operational demands all play a role.Halloween Picks
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