TEMPEST™

Stainless Steel Hopper Spreader

For 1.5 and 2.2 cu yd TEMPEST™ hopper spreaders on ¾- and 1-ton pickup trucks, the tarp is easily accessible from the ground. However, the larger 3.0, 4.0, and 5.0 cu yd models sit higher up on flatbeds, requiring operators to climb into the truck bed—which can become hazardous when adjusting the tarp in winter snow and ice conditions. To eliminate this safety risk on larger setups, the rolled tarp cover allows for safe, ground-level operation.

• #93474 – 7’ Pullover Tarp (For 1.5 cu yd Models)
• #93476 – 8’ Pullover Tarp (For 2.2 cu yd Models)
• #32765 – Rolled Tarp Cover (For 3, 4, and 5 cu yd Models)

Yes, the feed gate is compatible with pre-wet. The Trilogy Defense pre-wet system sprays material as it enters the chute, downstream of the feed gate. It is specifically designed for chain-style units (1.5 cu yd and larger) to restrict material flow and regulate the opening from the hopper. The feed gate is not compatible with auger units because that flow restriction is built directly into the design through the natural spacing between the auger flights.

Yes, the feed gate is compatible with Auto Speed Control. We strongly recommend locking the feed gate in the fully open position. Since the control automatically manages your application rate based on vehicle speed, keeping the feed gate restricted would artificially limit material flow and cause the system to miscalculate or overestimate the amount of material being applied.

The inverted V is standard on TEMPEST™ hopper spreader high-capacity models (3.0 cu yd and larger) and all auger-driven spreaders to relieve weight off the drive system and ensure smooth material flow, which significantly eases startup on larger setups. It is sold separately as an optional accessory for smaller auger and chain units, where lower material weight makes the feature unnecessary for everyday performance.

Dry bulk salt can spread up to 36’ wide, but pre-wetting your material shifts the focus from distance to accuracy. By significantly reducing bounce and scatter, pre-treated material settles in a more uniform pattern that prevents messy overlaps and costly oversalting. Always verify your spread width at the start of every run, as performance varies based on vehicle speed, surface conditions, and material type.

Choose the pintle chain conveyor for rugged, high-volume performance when handling sand and heavy salt-sand mixes, or opt for the HELIXX™ auger for superior control, precision, and consistent lower application rates with regular salt and treated bulk materials.

While our spreaders are engineered with specialized hopper geometry to promote natural material flow, adding a vibrator kit is a valuable upgrade for contractors frequently working with wet or heavily treated materials. This addition helps prevent bridging and maintains a steady, uninterrupted flow rate under the most demanding winter conditions.

Choosing between a larger spreader and an expansion collar comes down to balancing capacity, vehicle weight limits, and route efficiency. While an affordable expansion collar cuts down on refill trips without requiring a new unit, it only increases physical volume and does not raise your vehicle’s suspension or weight ratings. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your route demands, proximity to material supplies, and long-term business growth.