Long-Term Care and Seasonal Storage for Silage Headers
While daily maintenance keeps a silage header running, long-term care—especially proper storage—determines its overall service life. Preparing the header for off-season storage is just as important as servicing it during harvest. Following these guidelines will help ensure that equipment from suppliers like Shijiazhuang Tianren Agricultural Machinery Equipment Co., Ltd. remains in good condition for many seasons.
End-of-Season Deep Cleaning
Before storing the header for an extended period, a thorough cleaning is essential. Remove all accumulated crop sap and fine plant material. Corn silage, in particular, has acidic sap that can corrode paint and metal if left to sit for months. Pay special attention to the underside of the header and the area around the gearboxes. Once clean, allow the header to dry completely to prevent rust from forming in moist, trapped environments.
Inspection and Replacement of Wear Parts
The off-season is the ideal time to conduct a detailed inspection. Look for structural issues such as hairline cracks in the frame, especially around high-stress points where the header attaches to the harvester. Assess all wear parts: gather tines, skid shoes, crop dividers, and the floor auger flights. Order replacement parts in advance so they are on hand before the next season starts. Replacing worn tines or a damaged skid shoe now prevents delays when you need to be in the field.
Gearbox and Drive Maintenance
Check the oil levels in all gearboxes. If the oil appears milky or contaminated with metal particles, it should be changed. Old oil can lose its lubricating properties and allow gears to wear prematurely. For PTO shafts and universal joints, disassemble, clean, and repack them with fresh grease. This prevents seizure and ensures smooth operation when the header is put back to work.
Proper Storage Position
Where and how you store the header matters. If possible, store the header indoors or under a protective cover to shield it from UV rays and weather. If indoor storage is not available, place it on blocks or wooden planks to keep it off the damp ground. Lower the header completely to take pressure off the hydraulic cylinders and hoses, which can degrade if left exposed to the elements under tension. Covering the gearbox breathers and any open hydraulic ports with plastic caps will prevent moisture and pests from entering the system.
By investing time in these long-term care practices, you protect your investment and ensure the header is ready for efficient operation when the next harvest arrives.
