Winter Maintenance Tips for Farm Equipment
Winter is just around the corner, and that means it’s time to get your farm equipment ready for storage. In this week’s Maintenance Monday, Shane from Hanlon Ag Centre shares his best advice on how to protect your machines from the cold Alberta winter — and make sure they’re ready to work hard again come spring.
Why Winter Maintenance Matters
Cold weather, moisture, and long months of inactivity can be tough on tractors, balers, loaders, and other equipment. Taking time for proper winter maintenance for farm equipment helps prevent corrosion, frozen fluids, and unwanted surprises when you fire things back up next season.
Step 1: Clean Your Machines Thoroughly
Start by giving your equipment a full wash or blow out. Remove dirt, crop residue, and debris that can trap moisture and cause rust. Pay extra attention to hard-to-reach areas around bearings, belts, and undercarriages. Once clean, let your machines dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Step 2: Grease and Lubricate
Shane recommends going over every grease point before storage. A fresh layer of grease helps displace moisture and protects metal parts from corrosion. Be sure to check hydraulic fittings and moving joints, and top up fluids like oil and coolant as needed.
Step 3: Inspect Belts, Tires, and Batteries
Look for cracks or wear on belts and hoses, and make any necessary replacements before storing. Inflate tires to the proper pressure, and disconnect or remove batteries to prevent drain over the winter. Storing batteries in a warm, dry place helps extend their life.
Step 4: Cover and Store Properly
If possible, store your machines indoors. If they must stay outside, use weather-resistant covers and park them on a solid surface to prevent moisture buildup. A bit of effort now can save costly downtime and repairs next spring.
Bonus Tip: Keep a Maintenance Log
Document the work you’ve done and any issues you’ve noticed. Keeping a record makes it easy to track maintenance schedules and ensure every machine gets the attention it needs year-round. Don’t forget to make a list of all the parts you will need come spring.
Watch the Full Episode
For a full walkthrough, check out Shane’s video in our Maintenance Monday series on YouTube. He covers each step in detail, with practical advice for farmers across southern Alberta.
Get Expert Help from Hanlon Ag Centre
If you’d rather leave the winter prep to the pros, Hanlon Ag Centre’s service team is ready to help. From inspections to full equipment servicing, our technicians can make sure your machines are ready for a trouble-free spring.
Contact Hanlon Ag Centre in Lethbridge, Alberta, to schedule your winter maintenance today or learn more about our full lineup of farm equipment and services.
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