This will end up getting you going quicker when the next season starts up, in addition to giving you a little peace of mind.

Dirt and crop residue buildup on your baler can attract moisture and will create rust. The first step in reducing rust is by cleaning your machine.

Check all bolted connections on machine and torque according to specifications included in the manual.

Check all safety items and lights, and repair if needed. Perform maintenance as specified in the maintenance schedule.

Check PTO shields and yokes for play and wear, and grease according to specifications. Replace any damaged shielding.

If possible, let the machine run for about 10 to 20 minutes to warm up chains and bearings. This will make it easier for grease and oil to penetrate the different components.

Check oil level on main gearbox. Add more oil if necessary or replace oil according to maintenance schedule.

Check hydraulic hoses. Hydraulic hoses tend to age and weather after being exposed to the sunlight over the course of several years.

Check your hoses for damage. If damage is severe, it might be wise to replace the hoses instead of risking a breakdown during the season.

Check the function up and down of the pickup and straighten or replace any bent strippers. Replace any broken pickup teeth.

Check all other pickup components for wear or tear. Check tire condition and pressure on the pickup. Grease all hinge points and pickup clutch according to the maintenance schedule.

Net-binder – Remove the net for winter storage from the machine. Clean the net-binder assembly of any residue. Inspect the stretch roller bearings for rough spots when turning; grease if possible. Inspect the knife for damages, and replace if needed. Grease all hinges on the assembly.

Twine system – Remove twine for winter storage from the machine. Check the system for operation and grease hinges if necessary.

Check for any bent rotor teeth and straighten if needed. Set scrapers on rotor according to specifications in the manual.

Check knife operation up and down, and sharpen knives if needed. Grease all hinge points and bearings for the rotor drive and knife or drop-floor.

Bale chamber – Check opening and closing of tailgate. Grease all hinges and bearings.

Release the belt tension and check all rollers for free movement and play on the bearings. Clean and remove any buildup on the rollers. Check and adjust scrapers in the bale chamber.

Pressurize the belt tension up to a reasonable level and check belt alignment for proper running and tracking; adjust if needed.

Check your belts for damages and wear. Smooth out any cuts or damages to prevent them from getting caught. Replace lacing pins (every 1,000 bales) if needed. Once complete, remove belt tension before storing machine.

Check all chains and chain lubrication for proper function. Check chains and sprockets for wear. Replace chains if they show more than 3 percent wear. Tighten and oil chains before placing machine into storage.

Check the condition of the tires, and set them to the correct pressure. Check wheel axle bearings for play and perform maintenance as specified in the maintenance schedule.  FG

Marco Otten is a technical support specialist for Kuhn North America..