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How to Prep Your Equipment for Winter Storage and Spring Startup
How to Prep Your Equipment for Winter Storage and Spring Startup
When the last mow or field job of the year is done, it’s time to start thinking about winter storage. Whether you rely on a compact tractor, riding mower, or Gator utility vehicle, proper tractor winterization keeps your equipment in peak condition through the cold months—and ensures a quick, hassle-free spring startup.
At LandPro Equipment, our certified John Deere technicians see firsthand how preventive care saves owners time and money every year. Follow this complete equipment storage checklist to keep your machine running strong season after season.
1. Clean Thoroughly
Before storage, wash away dirt, grass clippings, and debris from your deck, undercarriage, and engine areas. Moisture trapped by buildup can lead to rust or corrosion. Let the machine dry completely before moving it into storage. Quick tip: You can use a leaf blower or compressed air to remove hard to reach debris.
2. Inspect and Service Key Components
Right before the winter season is the perfect time to give your equipment a detailed inspection:
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Check belts, blades, hoses, and filters for wear or cracks.
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Inspect tire tread and pressure.
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Grease all fittings and moving parts per your operator’s manual.
Addressing these issues now means you’ll start spring ready to work and not waiting on repairs.
3. Change Fluids and Filters
Old oil and filters can hold contaminants that damage your engine. So you don’t want to let dirty fluids sit all winter.
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Change the oil and filter before storage.
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Check coolant and hydraulic fluids, topping off or replacing as recommended.
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For diesel models, ensure your fuel system is prepped for winter to prevent gelling.
4. Stabilize the Fuel
One of the simplest and most important mower storage tips: add a fuel stabilizer before winter. Unstabilized fuel can break down over time, clogging your fuel system and making spring startups more difficult. After adding the stabilizer, run your equipment for a few minutes to circulate it throughout.
5. Protect the Battery
Good battery care ensures an easy spring restart.
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Disconnect the battery and store it in a cool, dry location.
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Or, connect a battery tender to keep it charged through winter.
6. Store Equipment Properly
Dry, indoor storage is always best. If that’s not an option, use a high-quality protective cover to shield your equipment from moisture, debris, and sunlight. Make sure the cover allows for airflow to prevent condensation and mold.
Spring Startup Tips
When the temperatures start rising, it’s time to get back to work. Follow these simple steps to bring your equipment out of hibernation:
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Check fluids and filters. Replace filters and change or top off fluids.
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Inspect belts and blades for cracks and wear. Replace as necessary.
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Check tire pressure and inflate to proper PSI.
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Reconnect and/or charge your battery.
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Start the engine and run briefly to listen for any irregular sounds.
A little attention now ensures reliable performance all season long.
Let LandPro Help with the Hard Work
If you’d rather leave the maintenance to the experts, LandPro’s trained technicians are here to help. LandPro offers:
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Winterization packages includes fluid changes, inspections, and cleaning.
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Battery and fuel system care to prevent costly spring repairs.
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Pickup and delivery service.
Take advantage of seasonal maintenance specials when they become available each winter and spring! To schedule your service today or to inquire about parts, follow the links below:
With the right care, and LandPro’s expert support, your John Deere equipment will be ready for any season.