Hay and Forage Equipment Winter Storage Tips

The arrival of winter brings the end of the farming season and the need to store your hay and forage equipment away until next spring. There are a few maintenance tasks you will want to tackle first to ensure the time in storage doesn't harm your machines. To help you get started, we've created the following guide to winter farm equipment storage.

Preventive Maintenance

Your first step is to ensure that your hay and forage equipment is running well. If there are any issues, it's much better to get them addressed during the off-season rather than waiting until you need to use the equipment. A thorough inspection will help you catch any problems before they turn into bigger issues.

For all your tools that use fuel, you will need to get the fuel ready for winter. Gas and diesel that are left sitting too long can experience the separation of its water content or the collection of water in the tank. This moisture can lead to rusting of the fuel tank, engine problems, and more. You'll want to drain all the fuel from your farm equipment, then add fresh fuel that has been treated with a stabilizer.

If your equipment uses a battery, you’ll want to take it out and connect it to a battery tender. Make sure you store it somewhere dry and warm. You should also inspect the tires to ensure there are no embedded objects or other issues. Check the tread wear to ensure it's not worn down too much.

Cleaning

All the gunk and grime that has been collected over the past several weeks is more than an aesthetic issue. Left too long, the caked-on debris can cause corrosion and damage to your hay equipment. All you need is a mild detergent to wash your machines. You can even use the same soap as you use when washing your commuter vehicle. Make sure you don't get any water or soap into any of the electronics.

Proper Storage

Finally, be sure to find a good place to store your equipment. Ideally, you will use a dry and covered space, like a barn or shed. This will help protect your machines from the elements. If you don't have those secure locations as an option, you will need to invest in a high-quality and durable cover. Avoid plastic options since they reduce air circulation and can result in water build-up, which can cause mechanical issues. Instead, buy a water-repellant cover that’s designed for your specific piece of equipment.

We hope you found this guide helpful. If you’ve any questions, feel free to get in touch with us at SS Equipment at one of our dealerships in Oregon and Washington. We also offer a wide range of hay and forage equipment for sale if you are looking to buy. Stop by your nearest location today!