STORAGE AND MAINTENANCE OF LARGE FARM EQUIPMENT Prepared by : Von G. Peavy South Region Ag Mechanics

Correct storage of large seasonal equipment is a good investment!

When your machine is not going to be used for some time, store the machine in a dry protected place. Leaving your combine outside, open to the weather, will shorten its life! Moisture and sunlight are the greatest enemies of machinery in prolonged storage. For periods of storage of up to six months, follow the procedures outlined in the equipment owners manual. For periods of storage more than six months, see your dealer for for procedure on longer periods of storage.

For storage of large equipment for up to six months, follow the procedures outlined following: Wash and clean the machine thoroughly inside and out. - Operating parts ( chaffer screens, sieves, elevators, grain tank, spindles, baskets, screens, etc) - Cab and instruments. - Tires - Rodent prevention. Completely lubricate the machine. (see lubrication chart) Apply grease to any chrome plated parts (hydraulic cylinders etc) Spray any parts subject to rust with rust preventative. ( picker drums ) Lubricate chains with engine oil.

Provide protection for tires. - Clean and provide protectant. - Support machine on blocks so that load is off tires. - If not supported, inflate tires at regular intervals. - Keep direct sunlight from tires. Change the engine oil. - Run the engine to warm oil. - Drain the oil. - Replace filter - Refill the crankcase with fresh oil (see recommended oil). - Run the engine two to five minutes. Service the fuel system. - Drain the old fuel. (at tank, filters, and separator) - Remove sediments and water. - Fill the tank completely with premium grade fuel. - Run the engine for two to five seconds.

Service the cooling system. - Drain and flush the cooling system. - Refill the system with correct coolant mix for the area. (see chart) - Add coolant conditioner and change the coolant filer conditioner. Drain the water from pressurized moistener systems.(picker) Remove all belts. - Clean the belts. - Store belts in a cool dry place. - Place a rust preventative on belt pulleys. Service the batteries. - No need to remove unless anticipated more than 30 days below freezing. - Fully charge batteries. - Disconnect the negative ( ground) cable.

Service the air induction system. - Air filter - Air pipes and ducts. Plug up openings. - Exhaust pipes. - Breather pipe. Cover delicate parts. - picker drums Let pressure off of hydraulic systems. - Place supports under drums and lower.

REMOVING MACHINERY FROM STORAGE

When removing machinery from long term storage: Check the fuel level. - Open the fuel tank shut off valve. - Open the separator filter drain valve. - Drain off water from tank. Check the oil level and grade of oil. Check the level of coolant in radiator and reservoir.

Check the lubricant level of all systems Check the brake fluid and linkages. See that the batteries are fully charged and connect all cables securely. Install and adjust all belts. Inflate tires to proper operating pressures. Remove plugs from engine breather tubes and exhaust. Close all doors and panels. Make sure all shields are in place.

Check the machine for leaks or missing or broken parts. Tighten all caps, dipsticks,covers, etc. Make sure all operating controls are in neutral. Crank engine and allow to run for a short period under no load. Operate controls. Repeat sequence several times. Check again for leaks and correct operation of parts. CAUTION Never operate the engine in an enclosed building.

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