Winterizing Farm and Yard Equipment

In Montana, winter comes early, stays long, and brings unique challenges for both farm and ranch operations and homeowners. From sub-zero temperatures and wind chills to heavy snow and long periods of inactivity, our climate is hard on machinery and equipment. Tractors, combines, sprayers, ATVs, and even small engines on lawnmowers or augers are all investments that need to be protected.

Montana winters routinely dip far below zero. Cold thickens fluids, stresses batteries, and makes plastics and rubber brittle. In addition, freeze-thaw cycles in unheated sheds or outdoor storage create condensation, leading to rust in fuel tanks and engine components. In rural areas, getting a mechanic or parts during a breakdown can be challenging, especially in early spring when everyone needs service at once. Farm machinery represents some of the largest capital expense in an operation. Even ATVs, balers, and lawn tractors cost enough that neglect can be expensive. In Montana’s rural storage sheds and barns, rodents can cause as much damage as weather. Nests in cab insulation, chewed wiring, and clogged air intakes are common overwintering issues.

Research from land-grant universities, farm equipment companies, and mechanics consistently shows that equipment stored without winter preparation is more likely to suffer from rust, corrosion, fuel system failure, and battery damage. Extension research highlights that preventive maintenance extends the useful life of equipment and reduces total cost of ownership. In a state where equipment downtime can mean real losses, taking a few hours to prepare machinery for winter storage is time well spent.

With that in mind, here are some research-based best practices for winterizing equipment.

Photo (above): Jack Bazemore, MSU Extension

1. CLEAN EQUIPMENT THOROUGHLY

Dirt, chaff, and fertilizer residues hold moisture and cause corrosion. Washing down machinery before storage lessens these risks. Take special care to clean under shields, around belts, and inside machines where residue builds up. Clean equipment lasts longer and makes spring startup easier by preventing buildup that can interfere with moving parts.

2. SERVICE AND PROTECT FLUIDS

Engine oil: Change oil and filters before storage. Used oil contains acids that can corrode internal parts. Fresh oil ensures the engine is protected during long periods of inactivity and ready to run smoothly when needed.

Coolant: Test antifreeze to ensure protection to at least -40°F. Montana winters demand strong coolant blends with proper additives to prevent corrosion. A properly maintained cooling system prevents expensive freeze damage.

Fuel systems: Diesel engines should be filled with #1 winter fuel and treated with anti-gel additives. Fuel tanks should be kept full to minimize condensation. For gasoline engines, use stabilizers to prevent ethanol breakdown and minimize condensation.

3. BATTERY MAINTENANCE

Cold drains batteries faster than heat, according to many battery manufacturers. Fully charge batteries before storage and disconnect them to prevent slow electrical drain. If possible, remove batteries and store them in a dry, temperature-controlled place. Proper care extends battery life and saves replacement costs.

4. LUBRICATION AND PROTECTION

Grease fittings, chains, bearings, and pivot points to prevent rust and seizing. Coat exposed metal surfaces with light oil or rust preventative sprays. Consistent lubrication reduces wear and tear, ensuring smoother operation and longer equipment life.

5. TIRE CARE

Check tire pressures before storage and fill to recommended pounds per square inch (PSI) as pressures naturally drop in cold weather. Check rims for damage. Maintaining tire health through the winter helps prevent costly replacements in the spring.

6. STORAGE CONSIDERATIONS

Indoor storage in a machine shed or barn is best, but not always available. For outdoor storage, use high-quality tarps or covers that allow ventilation. If parked outdoors, try to position equipment on well-drained ground, protected from wind, and away from areas where deeper snow tends to accumulate. To store a sprayer for the winter make sure it is fully drained. Consider running RV antifreeze through the system to prevent pumps, valves, hoses, and nozzles from freezing and cracking.

7. RODENT CONTROL

Before storing, vacuum cabs, remove grain or feed residue, and block entry points where possible. Use deterrents to help protect wiring and upholstery. Preventing rodent damage avoids expensive electrical repairs and keeps cabs clean for the next season.

8. MAKE OFF-SEASON REPAIRS

Winter downtime is the best time to address worn parts, replace belts, or rebuild components. Equipment dealerships and repair shops often have more availability in winter, and fixing problems early helps avoid costly delays in the busy season.

Most farm and yard equipment manufacturers have more specific information on how to best maintain individual machinery in the owner’s manual and online. Review these recommendations to find more specific information for best winterization practices.

Montana’s harsh winters make machinery care more than a suggestion, it’s a necessity. By cleaning, servicing, protecting, and storing equipment properly, producers and homeowners can preserve their investments and set themselves up for a smooth, productive spring. Whether it’s a large tractor, sprayer, baler, or even the garden rototiller, winterizing saves time, money, and frustration.

Julianne Snedigar is the MSU Extension Agriculture and 4-H Youth Development Agent in Blaine County.