How to Properly Store Farm Equipment

If you need to place your farm equipment in storage, it's not enough to simply park your rigs in a shed or garage. There are steps you need to take first in order to prevent the storage process from causing issues with your equipment. We've created the following storage guide to help you get everything ready. If you have any questions or need to get your farm equipment serviced, visit the experts at West Hills Tractor. Our dealership is based in Jonesborough, Tennessee. We also proudly serve those in Johnson City and Greenville.

1. Clean Your Farm Equipment

If your farm equipment has spent the last several weeks operating in the fields, there's likely a layer of grime on your rigs. This gunk is more than an aesthetic issue. If the mud and other debris gets caked-on and left on the exterior too long, it can result in corrosion and damage. Plus, debris can find its way into the inner workings of your farm equipment and make it harder for them to work effectively. Clean your farm equipment before you place it in storage to prevent this damage.

To wash your farm equipment, you'll need a mild detergent. In many cases, you can even use the soap that you use to wash your commuter vehicle. But it's wise to double check the farm equipment's owner's manual to ensure there are no products you need to avoid using. As you clean your models, be careful to not get soap or water into any of the electronics. After you finish cleaning and the equipment is dry, lubricate the grease points.

2. Inspect Your Farm Equipment

The next step is to look over your farm equipment to make sure there are no issues that need to be addressed. It's better to uncover them now when you have plenty of time to get the problems fixed. You'll want to look over the various nooks and crannies for any red flags, from the tires to the electronic systems.

3. Tend to the Fuel

When gas or diesel is left sitting for too long, it can experience separation of the water content or the collection of water in the tank. This excess moisture can cause rusting of the fuel tank, engine problems, and other issues. Drain all the fuel from your farm equipment, then add in fresh fuel that has already been treated with a stabilizer.

4. Tend to the Battery

Take the battery out of all the models that use a battery. If you can, hook this battery to a battery tender. You'll also want to store it somewhere that is warm and dry.

5. Tend to the Tires

Check the tread level of your tires. Tread wears down naturally over time and eventually it'll get worn down enough that the tires will need to be replaced. Make sure your tires will be good to go once you take your farm equipment out of storage. If they are not, you'll be able to buy new tires before you need to use your farm equipment. If possible, store your farm equipment on supporting blocks or stands to keep flat spots from forming.

6. Pick Your Storage Space

The final step is to determine where you are storing your farm equipment. Look for places that are dry and covered to ensure protection from the elements, such as a barn or shed. If these buildings are not an option, get durable and high-quality covers for your various models. Don't get plastic options since these don't have great air circulation and can result in water build-up, leading to mechanical issues. Look for covers built for farm equipment that are made from water repellent material.

We hope you found this farm equipment maintenance guide useful. If your farm equipment needs parts replacement or a service department appointment before storage, bring it to West Hills Tractor in Jonesborough, Tennessee. Our staff can get your farm equipment repaired and ready to go in no time. We also offer a range of farm equipment for sale. Whatever you need, you can find it with us. We welcome all those coming from Johnson City and Greenville, so stop by today!