GUIDE – The Ultimate Guide to Storing Farm Equipment Safely and Efficiently

Storing farm equipment safely and efficiently when it is not needed for everyday use is something that has to be done if you want to keep your farm running smoothly. If you don’t you run the risk of having to spend a lot of money repairing and replacing equipment that would have otherwise been quite fit for use.  You will also reduce the risk of accidents, and with farms being amongst the most dangerous of work places, anything you can do in this regard has to be good news.

In this short article, we’ll discuss the importance of properly storing farm equipment, the various types of storage solutions, and tips for storing it safely and efficiently.

The importance of properly storing agricultural equipment

All types of farm equipment require proper storage, some needing more care than others. And similar items can require different types of treatment. For example, if you have a diesel tractor, you are best to keep the fuel tank full, whereas in the old days, when it was a petrol tractor, it was best to empty the tank. The reason for this is that if you leave a diesel tank half full, condensation and other residue is likely to contaminate the fuel. In the case of petrol engines, the problem is different, as the fuel is likely to go stale, which could cause problems with the fuel system when you first use it.

Either way, not storing a tractor in the right way could end up costing you a lot of money, and of course it won’t be available when you need it.

The correct way of doing things doesn’t end there either as if the engine is water cooled, you need to check the coolant with a hydrometer to test its freezing point. Depending where you are in the World, you could need to add a lot more antifreeze before you put your compact tractor to bed for the winter.

Wherever possible, store all your farm implements in a dry, clean environment. And is you have to store it outdoors, it should be covered or at least kept in a well-ventilated shelter. This will help protect it from the elements and reduce the risk of rust and corrosion.

In addition to protecting your farm equipment from damage, proper storage can also help keep your property safe. Storing farm equipment in an enclosed building or shelter can help prevent accidents and minimize the risk of theft. This is especially important if you have expensive or unique pieces of equipment.

The types of storage solution

There are many types storage building that can be used for agricultural machinery. Here’s a look at some of the most popular options:

• Barns and outbuildings – These are the most traditional type of storage solution used by farmers today. They provide a secure and sheltered environment and allow you to keep your equipment out of the elements.
• Self-storage units – Self-storage units are a great option for storing farm tools and equipment, especially if you don’t have a lot of space on your property. They are secure, affordable, and come in a variety of sizes.
• Portable storage containers – These offer a convenient, secure, and cost-effective way to store tools and equipment, especially small items like an aerator or a grinder. They are easy to move and can be placed in almost any location on your farm.
• Steel buildings – Steel buildings are a great option for storing large pieces of farm equipment, such as a hay baler, trucks and trailers, tractors and combine harvesters. They are secure and durable, and can be customized to fit your needs.

Looking after Tractor Attachments and Other Equipment

Believe it or not, but cleaning has to be the first job before you put tractor attachments or any tools into storage for the winter. You have to remove any mud, vegetation or any other foreign bodies. Doing so makes it far easier to inspect it all for any damage as well as allowing you to spot any wear and tear that might need addressing. This way you can replace worn out parts over the winter in the sure knowledge that all will be well when you need the equipment later on. Hydraulic hoses and other miscellaneous wiring should also be inspected and replaced. Your equipment dealer should be able to help here, but if not contact the manufacturer to see if they can sort out the required replacement parts.

It’s also a good time to check mower blades for sharpness and test other equipment to ensure it is performing correctly.

Checking the moving parts of the equipment for the correct level of lubrication is another essential task, this being especially important when it comes to any bearings. Any signs of rust or bare metal need to be treated with grease or a rust prevention paint. Basically speaking, keeping moisture away from your machinery is essential, otherwise you risk and parts seizing up just when you need them.

Conclusion

Storing farm equipment correctly is an essential part of running a farm. Proper storage can help you avoid costly repairs and replacements, reduce the risk of accidents, and basically save you a lot of money and time in the long run. By following the basic tips in this guide you can ensure that your farm equipment will be stored properly and ready to use when needed.