As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, it’s time to winterise your valuable farm machinery and equipment. Proper winter storage is essential to ensure that your machinery remains in good working condition and ready to go when spring arrives.
So, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to prepare farm equipment for winter storage in Ireland.
Clean Thoroughly
Before storing any equipment, give it a thorough cleaning. Remove dirt, mud, and crop residue from all surfaces, as these can trap moisture. They can also cause rust and corrosion. Pay special attention to the undercarriage and hard-to-reach areas.
Our power washer hose reels will make quick work of tractors and machinery.
Our Reelworks Power Washer Hose Reel
Repair & Maintenance
Inspect each piece of equipment for damage and wear. Address any needed repairs before storing the equipment for the winter. This includes checking belts, hoses, filters, and lubricating points. Ensure that all parts are in good working condition.
Drain Fluids
Remove or drain fluids from the equipment that may be sensitive to freezing temperatures. This includes fuel, oil, and water from engines, hydraulic systems, and cooling systems. Make sure to follow proper disposal procedures for these fluids.
For draining oil, have a look at our oil drainers. To avoid spills when draining fluids, check out our spill trays.
Lubricate Moving Parts
Apply a light coat of lubricant to moving parts like bearings, joints, and pivot points. Lubrication helps prevent rust and keeps these components in good condition during storage. Our grease guns would be highly useful for this.
Our Lubeworks 90L Waste Oil Drainer
Protect Tires
Inflate tires to the recommended pressure to prevent flat spots and cracking. Store equipment on solid, level ground or on wooden blocks to keep tires off the cold, damp earth. You should also consider using tire covers for added protection.
Battery Maintenance
If your equipment has a battery, remove it and store it in a cool, dry place. Charge it periodically throughout the winter to maintain its charge. This will prolong the life of the battery.
Cover & Shelter
Whenever possible, store your equipment in a dry, sheltered area like a barn or a shed. If indoor storage isn’t an option, consider using weatherproof covers or tarps to protect your machinery from the elements.
Our Groz Pistol Grease Gun
Rodent Control
Inspect your storage area for signs of rodents and take measures to prevent infestations. Rodents can cause extensive damage by chewing wires and nesting in your equipment.
Fuel Stabilisation
If you can’t completely drain the fuel tank, consider adding a fuel stabiliser to prevent ethanol-blended fuels from separating and causing engine problems. Run the engine for a few minutes to ensure the stabiliser is distributed throughout the system.
Documentation
Create a list of all the equipment you’re storing, noting any repairs or maintenance performed. This documentation will help you remember what needs attention when you bring the equipment out of storage in the spring.
Our Ferroni ML Series PTO Water Pump
Winter Checks
Periodically check on your stored equipment during the winter. Look for signs of moisture, rodents, or other issues that may require attention.
Spring Readiness
As winter wanes and spring approaches, begin preparing your machinery and equipment for use. Reinstall the battery, refill fluids, and perform a thorough inspection to ensure everything is in working order before heading out to the fields.
By following these steps for winterising your farm machinery and equipment in Ireland, you can help ensure they remain in good condition. This means they’ll be ready to tackle the demands of the next season. Proper winter storage can save you time, money, and headaches in the long run.
If you’re looking for new farm equipment, we have a wide range available online. Check out our PTO water pumps that you can attach to tractors, milk pumping equipment, mobile diesel tanks, grease guns, fuel additives, and much more.