Preparing Your Farm Equipment for Cold Weather: A Step-by-Step Guide

As the leaves start to turn and the air grows crisp, it's a clear sign that winter is on its way. For farmers, this means it's time to winterize their equipment to ensure it survives the cold months ahead and is ready to go when spring rolls around. Here's how you can protect your investment and keep your machinery in top-notch condition.

Step 1: Clean and Inspect Your Equipment

Before the frost sets in, give your farm equipment a good cleaning. Dirt, debris, and plant material can hide issues that may worsen over winter. Inspect each piece for signs of wear or damage, paying close attention to moving parts and hydraulic systems.

Step 2: Change Fluids and Filters

• Replace engine oil and filters to ensure your machinery starts easily after the cold spell.
• Check antifreeze levels in the cooling system and top up or replace as necessary.
• Drain any water separators and fuel filters to prevent freezing and potential damage.

Step 3: Treat Your Fuel

Add a fuel stabilizer to your tanks before the long winter months. This helps to prevent the fuel from deteriorating and keeps the engine's fuel system from corroding.

Step 4: Lubricate Moving Parts

Thoroughly lubricate joints and bearings. Winter weather can cause these parts to seize or corrode, so proper lubrication is key to maintaining the longevity of your equipment.

Step 5: Maintain Battery Health

Remove batteries from equipment that won't be used over winter. Store them in a cool, dry place and keep them charged. For batteries left in machinery, disconnect them to prevent drainage.

Step 6: Protect Tires and Rubber Components

Inflate tires to the proper pressure to avoid flat spots. Consider storing machines on blocks to relieve pressure on tires. Apply a rubber protectant to tires and any other rubber components to keep them from cracking in the cold.

Step 7: Store Equipment Properly

Where possible, store your ag. equipment indoors to protect it from the elements. If indoor storage isn't an option, use quality, waterproof covers to shield machinery from snow and rain.

Step 8: Keep a Checklist and Records

Maintain a winterization checklist and keep records of all maintenance performed. This will help you track what's been done and what needs attention when it's time to de-winterize in the spring.

If you're in the Linden and Stettler, AB areas, Linden Stettler Agri-Centre is your go-to destination for all your agricultural equipment needs. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff can guide you through the winterization process, provide you with the necessary supplies, and offer expert advice on how to best care for your machinery.