After a busy and productive hay season, it’s easy to park your equipment in the barn and call it quits until next spring. But if you want to avoid costly repairs and downtime during next year’s first cutting, fall maintenance is a must.

Taking the time now to inspect, clean, and service your hay equipment ensures a smooth start in spring—and can significantly extend the life of your machines. Plus, if any parts need replacing, you’ll have all winter to source and install them without the pressure of next season’s schedule. 

Why Fall Is the Best Time for Hay Equipment Maintenance

Dirt, dust, hay debris, and mud don’t just look bad—they hold moisture and can cause rust, corrosion, and other long-term damage. By cleaning and lubricating your equipment now, you’re creating a protective barrier against winter weather and storage conditions. Your future self will be glad you did it come spring!

Quick Tip:

• For most equipment, a broom, leaf blower, or pressure washer will do the trick.
• Avoid using water or pressure washers on balers, as moisture in internal components can lead to rust. Use compressed air instead.

A good coating of grease on all bearings and moving parts will also help prevent corrosion and keep your equipment running smoothly when it’s time to gear up again.

Fall Maintenance Checklists by Equipment Type

✅ Drum Mower Winter Storage Checklist

• Replace dull or worn blades for a fresh start next season.
• Lubricate all fittings per the manufacturer’s recommendations.
• Remove all debris, mud, and grass buildup.
• Store indoors if possible, or cover with a waterproof tarp.
• If storing on bare ground, use wooden planks to elevate the mower and prevent moisture damage.
• Touch up exposed metal surfaces with rust-preventative spray paint.
• Don’t forget to grease the driveline as outlined in your owner’s manual.

✅ Rake Winter Storage Checklist

• Clean off all grass, mud, and debris.
• Grease all lubrication points.
• For PTO-powered rakes, lubricate the driveline according to the manual.
• Inspect for broken tines or worn belts and replace if needed.
• Inflate tires to the recommended PSI and inspect for signs of wear or cracking.

✅ Round Baler Winter Storage Checklist

• Thoroughly clean out all dirt, hay, and mud.
• Empty the bale chamber completely.
• Lubricate all moving parts as directed in the manual.
• Apply chain lubricant to all roller chains.
• Inflate tires and check for damage.
• Paint over any exposed metal to stop corrosion.
• Grease the driveline per the manufacturer’s instructions.

✅ Square Baler Winter Storage Checklist

• Remove any leftover bales and loose hay.
• Clean dust from the knotters and apply a corrosion inhibitor.
• Inspect the pickup reel and replace any bent or broken tines.
• Lubricate the machine as specified by the owner’s manual.
• Inflate tires to the proper PSI and assess condition.
• Spray exposed metal areas with rust-resistant paint.
• Grease the driveline thoroughly.

Protect Your Investment This Fall

Performing fall maintenance might feel like just another chore, but it’s a smart investment in your equipment’s performance and longevity. A well-maintained machine not only operates more efficiently but also saves you time, money, and frustration when hay season rolls around again.

Take a few hours this fall to complete this checklist and give your hay tools the care they deserve. Your future self—and your hayfields—will thank you. Find quick access to any fall equipment maintenance needs through the following links:

• Parts and Manuals
• Supplies
• Maintenance Tools
• Technical Support

Have questions about fall maintenance for your specific haying implements? Give our team a call at 260-BALE-HAY. A real person with real experience using this equipment will be happy to help!