Living in Wisconsin, we need to prepare for the winter season in many different areas.

Buildings and cattle generally get the most attention; however, farm equipment is just as important.

On many farms, the equipment is the last item looked at, if at all. Equipment on other farms is parked outside in the big, open-air shed, subjected to the elements of the winter weather season.

On most farms, tractors, skid loaders, feeding equipment and manure equipment is used daily. Unfortunately, the skid loader and manure spreader are often the most neglected equipment on the farm. Generally speaking, if they run, they go to work just by the nature of the beast. And when the skid loader and manure spreader don’t work, it’s usually panic time, requiring fast action.

Winter preparation for tractors and skid loaders should include changing the engine oil and filter, replacing the fuel filter and making sure to use winter blend fuel. Checks should be made to make sure all lights and flashers are working properly as well. Next, engine air filters should be inspected and changed if necessary. It’s also important to make sure that all fluids are at proper levels or replaced if needed.

On skid loaders, operators should make sure all drive linkage is properly adjusted. If not, have the loader repaired before damage is done. On all skid loaders, be sure the rams seals are not leaking or need replacing to avoid damage or safety problems.

Many times, safety becomes secondary, which is a bad thing, sometimes causing serious injury or even death. Keep all safety switches working and do not bypass, thus avoiding additional problems.

Drive tires on skid loaders are very important. Needed are four matched tires with good lugs. Bald tires not only cause poor traction, but they also put a lot of pressure on axles, wheel bearings and drive chains. Buckets and other attachments used on skid loaders should always be in good shape, avoiding down time and safety problems.

Many dealers offer a winter service special on tractors and skid loaders, which will help to correct problems and give the units additional life.

Manure equipment will vary from farm to farm but should always be kept in good working condition. Box spreaders, which are used on most farms, should be checked weekly to be sure the apron chains are tight and are pulling straight. The beater paddles should also be tight and cleaned off to provide a proper spread of materials. Liquid tankers should be properly cleaned out or flushed out to avoid the build-up of sand or lime. Axles and axle bearings should also be checked weekly due to the heavy loads these units are forced to haul.

On all manure spreaders, it is important that the PTO shafts telescope properly and all shafts have the proper shields in place. Do not use units with missing shields, as this practice is very dangerous. On the big liquid tankers, be sure the safety flashers are working at all times, as safety on the roadways is always paramount.

Larry Schraufnagel has been part of the family business, Schraufnagel Implement Inc., for more than 45 years. To contact Schraufnagel with questions, e-mail him at ljs41@charter.net.

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