It’s that time of year again; you are likely getting equipment stored away for the winter season. By taking a few moments to properly store your Ag Leader equipment, you can help ensure continued trouble-free performance of your displays and operating systems as well as GPS and steering equipment:
• It is true GPS equipment like receivers are designed to be weather resistant, but if your equipment will be stored for an extended period of time it is recommended you remove the hardware from your machinery and take it out of the elements.
• When the receivers and other equipment are removed, it is also advised to dock the cabling so it is not exposed to the elements.
• Ag Leader also recommends removing the display as well as the combine grain flow sensor from the combine. This will better protect your touch screen from damage and it will prevent mice from snacking on the potting material on the flow sensor.
Extreme temperatures take a toll on almost everything that surrounds us, and that includes the high-tech electronic equipment found in our tractors, sprayers, spreaders, trucks and combines. Extreme cold will cause parts to shrink and become brittle, as well as allow condensation to form on parts that are not sealed. It’s always a good idea if you’re not using your Ag Leader display to remove it from the vehicle, put it back in its packaging and store in a climate-controlled environment.
• If there is dust or dirt on the screen, first blow it off using non-direct air to remove the dust that could scratch the screen. Then you can use Windex or an electronic cleaner/wipe with a soft, non-abrasive cloth.
• Take extra care when cleaning the equipment to also clean connections and cabling by applying dielectric grease to terminals and contacts. If any of the cables show signs of corrosion, take corrective action now by either providing additional protection from the elements or replacing the cable. While cleaning, also inspect the cables for damage at any pinch points or corners and near moving parts.
• If you’ve already put your combine away for the year, you will want to make sure the Elevator Mount Unit (EMU) on your clean grain elevator is cleaned out. Pull the two retaining pins at the bottom of the EMU to remove the auger. Thoroughly clean all the grain out of the chamber and make sure there is nothing stuck in front of the proximity switch.
• Lastly, the load cell for the flow sensor is surrounded by a protective potting material that can be easily damaged by small rodents. To prevent this, pull the flow sensor off the top of the elevator and store it in the house, shop or a sealable container.
By taking these precautions now, you can help ensure that your equipment will perform properly the next time you use it, and you will also be protecting the investments you have made in your precision agriculture technology.
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