Equipment Storage and Winterization

Why does winterizing matter?

Cold, moisture and time damage machines even when they sit still. Water freezes in lines and blocks, old fuel gums up injectors and carburetors, batteries lose charge, rodents nest in air cleaners and rust creeps into every scratch. A few hours of care in fall prevents many of these problems. Use a simple checklist for each machine and tick it off as you work. This is also the best time to photograph serial numbers and update the equipment list for insurance.

The exact steps differ by machine, so use each manual as the guide. Climate matters too. A place with hard winters needs different steps than one with mild, damp ones.

Write the date and hours on a tag attached to the key or steering wheel, so you know what was done.

How should you clean and inspect before storing?

Wash off mud, manure, crop residue and chemical residue, then let the machine dry. Dirt holds moisture against metal and hides cracks and leaks. Inspect while it is clean, and make a list of repairs. Fall repairs are easier than spring ones, since parts and shop time are more available. Check the manual for any storage-specific steps, such as lowering implements, releasing spring tension or covering exposed hydraulic rods with grease.

Grease fittings, check for worn parts and touch up chipped paint. Fix problems now so you do not rush them in spring.

Take photos of the machine before storage. They help with insurance and with spring checks.

• Wash and dry thoroughly
• Look for leaks, cracks and wear
• Grease fittings
• Touch up bare metal

What fluids and fuel need attention?

Change engine oil before storage, since used oil holds acids. Check coolant strength for the lowest temperature you expect, and follow the manual on antifreeze. Top up hydraulic and transmission fluids if the manual suggests. Do not leave fuel cans in a closed trailer or cab where fumes could build up.

Fuel can go stale. Follow the manual on stabilizers or on filling the tank to limit condensation. For small engines, ask the manual whether to drain the carburetor. Store fuel containers away from buildings and ignition sources.

Mark the tags on drained or stabilized machines so nobody starts them in the wrong state.

• Oil change before storage
• Coolant strength check
• Stabilizer or fuel plan per manual
• Fuel stored away from buildings

How do you store batteries and tires?

Batteries lose charge over winter and can freeze when discharged. Remove them, clean the terminals and store them in a cool, dry place off the floor, with a maintenance charger if the maker allows. Never charge a frozen battery. Date the battery with a marker, and replace it when it will no longer hold a charge.

Park equipment on boards or pads to keep tires out of mud and moisture. Check pressure per the manual, and keep tires out of direct sun. Jack stands or blocks can take weight off tires for long storage if you can do so safely.

Keep tire chains, weights and attachments in a labeled spot so spring setup goes fast.

• Remove and clean batteries
• Maintenance charger if allowed
• Boards or pads under tires
• Check tire pressure

Where should equipment go?

Indoor storage is best, but not everyone has space. Prioritize high value, electronics and engine driven machines. If you must store outdoors, use covers that breathe, raise machines off the ground and keep openings sealed against rodents. Rodents chew wiring, and a wiring repair can cost more than the machine's winter care.

Block mouse entry into air cleaners, mufflers and cabs, and set traps carefully away from children and animals. Keep flammables away from machines in storage. Ask your insurance agent about coverage for stored equipment.

• Move valuable machines inside first
• Use breathable covers outdoors
• Seal openings against rodents
• Park on firm, dry ground

What about spring startup?

In spring, check for rodent damage, fluid leaks and flat tires before starting. Reinstall batteries, check fluid levels and test lights and safety switches. Start the engine and let it warm up, watching gauges. Check coolant hoses and belts for cracks before the first start.

Keep your notes from this season in the shop so you can repeat the routine and improve it each year.

Make a separate list of parts that were worn or ordered, so you can place orders early.

• Check for rodent damage
• Inspect leaks and tires
• Reinstall batteries
• Test lights and safety switches

Last reviewed: November 12, 2026. Written by the Rural Farm Life Editorial Team. See our editorial policy.