How to Identify Your Western Tornado Hopper Spreader

Not sure which Western Tornado hopper spreader you have? Use the guide below to identify your model and ensure you're ordering the correct replacement parts.

Western Tornado Non-Fleet Flex Spreaders

The Western Tornado Poly Hopper Spreader was manufactured in three different capacities:

The 1.5-yard model measures approximately 7 feet in length, while the 1.8-yard and 2.5-yard models are both 8 feet long.

Locate Your Serial Number

The serial number decal is located on the driver's side rear rail of the spreader. If the decal is still legible, the last five digits of the serial number will identify your model:

• 78000 = 1.5 Yard Capacity
• 78003 = 1.8 Yard Capacity
• 78006 = 2.5 Yard Capacity

How to Identify a Non-Fleet Flex Spreader

There are two simple ways to determine whether your Western Tornado spreader uses the Non-Fleet Flex system.

Method 1: Check the Gearbox and Drive System

Look at the rear of the spreader and locate the gearbox and motor assembly.

A Non-Fleet Flex spreader uses:

• Motor: 95755-2 or Aftermarket 50090
• Gearbox: 95567

One of the easiest identifying features is the large drive sprocket (78057) mounted on the gearbox shaft and connected by a roller chain (78075).

Method 2: Check the Controller

The Western Tornado Non-Fleet Flex controller (78102) features:

• Two adjustment dials
• Two buttons in the center
• "START/BLAST" button on top
• "OFF" button on the bottom

Important Wiring Information

Non-Fleet Flex wiring components are NOT interchangeable with Fleet Flex wiring systems.

Before ordering controllers, modules, wiring harnesses, or electrical components, verify whether your spreader is a Non-Fleet Flex or Fleet Flex model.

Continue below to learn how to identify a Western Tornado Fleet Flex spreader and avoid ordering incorrect parts.

Western Tornado & Striker Fleet Flex Spreaders

In 2018, Western redesigned the Tornado spreader and introduced a stainless steel version known as the Western Striker. Both spreaders utilize the same electrical and drive components, with the primary difference being the hopper material:

• Tornado – Polyethylene Hopper
• Striker – Stainless Steel Hopper

Western Tornado Fleet Flex Model Numbers

Western retained the same model numbers used on the earlier Non-Fleet Flex Tornado spreaders, adding a "-1" suffix to designate Fleet Flex models.

The serial number decal is typically located on the driver's side rear rail of the spreader.

Western Striker Fleet Flex Model Numbers

For Western Striker stainless steel spreaders, the serial number decal is located on the upper right side of the spreader when viewed from the rear.

The last six digits of the serial number will identify your model:

How to Identify a Fleet Flex Spreader

There are three simple ways to determine whether your Western Tornado or Striker spreader is equipped with the Fleet Flex system.

Method 1: Check the Gearbox and Drive System

Locate the gearbox and motor assembly at the rear of the spreader.

Fleet Flex spreaders utilize a blue or black gearbox (99087) directly connected to the motor (99085). Unlike the earlier Non-Fleet Flex design, Fleet Flex spreaders do not use a chain and sprocket drive system to operate the conveyor.

Method 2: Check for the Fleet Flex Switch Box

The redesigned Tornado and all Striker models feature an accessory switch box located in the driver's side rear corner of the spreader.

The switch box consists of:

• Two round buttons on the front
• One metal push button on the rear

These controls operate:

• Dump Mode
• Work Lights

If your spreader is equipped with this accessory box, it is a Fleet Flex model.

Method 3: Check the Controller

One of the easiest ways to identify a Fleet Flex spreader is by examining the controller.

The Fleet Flex controller (99534) features:

• Two control dials ( Material Speed and Material Width)
• ON/OFF button (center left)
• BLAST button (center right)
• Four rectangular feature buttons across the top

The four feature buttons control:

• Vibrator
• Work Lights
• Strobe Lights
• Pre-Wet System

When equipped, the corresponding feature labels illuminate, allowing operators to activate accessories with a single touch.

On the digital screen of the control it will also provide you with fault codes if there were to have an issue with the spreader, here is the display codes quick reference guide:

Still Not Sure Which Spreader You Have?

Using the serial number, gearbox design, switch box, and controller style should allow you to accurately identify your Western Tornado or Striker spreader.

If you still have questions or need help locating the correct replacement parts, our knowledgeable support team is here to help.

Email:support@plowparts.com

We'll help you identify your spreader and find the correct OEM Western replacement parts quickly and accurately.