Is your sprayer ready for winter?
Category:Service Bulletins,UncategorizedWinterizing your sprayer
Is your sprayer ready for winter? It is critical to properly winterize your sprayer so that it will operate as expected next year. Neglecting to properly winterize your sprayer could lead to leaks in the spray lines or a seized pump. Don’t worry, we have put together a procedure that will walk you through the process and help prevent any unwanted surprises at the beginning of the next spray season.
Step One: Flush and Neutralize the System
Follow the instructions from the last chemical/s used to properly drain and dispose of any chemicals remaining in the spray system. Once complete, use a Tank Neutralizer such as EXTEND and follow the instructions on the label to flush and neutralize the spray system.
Step Two: Check Components
Fill the spray tank 1/2 full with water and turn on the sprayer to check the system for leaks, clogs, or worn out parts. Adjust the pressure relief valve up and down to ensure it has not seized. Toggle the boom valves on and off to ensure they are operating correctly. Use a catch cup to check the output of your spray tips and replace if necessary. Check your strainer for clogs. Look for cracks or leaks in the spray hose and replace as needed. Drain the sprayer when complete.
Step Three: Annual Maintenance
Re-pack the sprayer’s wheel bearings and grease the boom hinges. Apply lithium grease to electrical connections. Lubricate O-rings and seals with vegetable oil.
Step Four: Winterize
Two methods are commonly used for winterizing a sprayer, adding antifreeze is more common if the sprayer will be routinely exposed to below-freezing temperatures.
Option One: Add Antifreeze
Pour a mixture of 50/50 biodegradable antifreeze into the spray tank, you will need enough to prime the pump and run through the spray lines. Turn on the sprayer and allow the mixture to circulate through the spray system so that it coats all surfaces. This will keep the system from freezing and help protect against component rust.
Option Two – Blow Out The Sprayer
Use compressed air to completely blow out the spray system. You may need to disconnect fittings in order to completely blow out the system. Remove the spray tips and strainers and blow compressed air through the lines. Replace the fittings once complete. We recommend storing the sprayer inside a barn or out of the elements if this method is used.
Step Five: Drain The Motor
Drain the motor of gasoline or add a fuel stabilizer and shut off the fuel supply line. If possible, store the sprayer indoors.
Or let us do it for you…
Bring your rinsed & neutralized sprayer in to PBM Supply & MFG Inc. or your local participating PBM sprayer dealer and let us perform the annual maintenance and winterizing process for you. *Standard rates apply.
*PBM does not guarantee that by following these instructions, or by using PBM’s services that your spray equipment will make it through the winter without damage. These services and methods are considered to be preventative maintenance that will help decrease the chance of damage from winter conditions.
