Although harvest is a very busy and all consuming period the subject of sprayer maintenance should not be forgotten or ignored, it is easy to forget and put in a shed until next year.
Sprayer maintenance
Sprayer maintenance is important throughout the season but if a final thorough clean and check list is undertaken for the winter the risk of issues when spring 2025 arrives are reduced.
The following points are generally for Lipco recirculation sprayers but many of them can apply to other sprayers.
- Thoroughly clean and inspect for damage all filters, remove, clean and inspect nozzles.
- Clean the sump and injector nozzles.
- To protect the sprayer from damage during the winter months fill with an anti freeze agent mixed with water after the completion of a thorough clean of all parts.
- Rinse all elements of the liquid circulation by means of the pump, actuate all valves/shut off gates and nozzles several times to ensure all parts come into contact with the anti freeze solution so they are coated with a protective film. Do not drain until there is no longer danger of frost in the spring.
Pump maintenance
- Change oil every season.
- Check membrane for damage.
- Grease fan bearing, telescopic guides on fan unit and PTO shaft.
- Clean and check pressure relief valve.
If these measures are applied it will hopefully result in a trouble free start to the 2025 spraying season.
