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on Monday, February 23, 2026
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Dealer News
Cotton harvest season waits for no one! In Texas, timing varies depending on the location of your farming operation. South Texas producers start rolling as early as July, while growers in the Panhandle push into November. Wherever your fields are located, getting your cotton stripper ready now saves headaches and money during those critical harvest weeks.
Downtime during cotton season costs more than just repair bills. A breakdown at the wrong time can mean lost yield and reduced fiber quality. That's why pre-season maintenance is essential to protecting your investment and your crop. Let’s take a look at how to prep and maintain your cotton stripper so it’s ready for the 2026 cotton season.
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Why Pre-Season Cotton Stripper Maintenance Matters
Texas conditions put serious demands on cotton harvesting equipment. Dust, heat, and long operating hours take their toll on mechanical components. The John Deere CS770 Cotton Stripper is built tough for these conditions, but even the best equipment needs proper care to perform at its peak.
Regular maintenance also reduces fire risk during dry harvest seasons. Crop material and debris accumulate throughout the machine, and wind direction impacts where buildup occurs. Being proactive about cleaning and inspection keeps your crew safe and your equipment running.
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Pre-Season Inspection Checklist for Texas Cotton Producers
Before your stripper heads to the field, work through a complete inspection of all major systems. The CS770's 515-horsepower engine needs clean filters, proper fluid levels, and a thorough check of all belts and hoses. Texas heat pushes cooling systems hard, so verify your radiator is clean and coolant levels are correct.
The three-drum onboard field cleaner deserves special attention. Inspect drum surfaces for wear, check grid bars for damage, and verify belt tension. Whether you're running an 8-row or 12-row header, inspect each stripping unit for worn bats and proper roll spacing. Row units should float approximately 1-2 inches above the surface during operation.
Key Components to Service Before Harvest Season
Focus your maintenance efforts on these critical areas to maximize uptime during the 2026 season.
- Engine and drivetrain: Change oil and filters, inspect belts for cracks, and verify all fluid levels.
- Hydraulic system: Check hoses for cracks or bulges and inspect fittings for leaks.
- Electrical systems: Test all safety systems, lights, and alarms.
- Row units: Inspect stripping rolls for wear and verify proper spacing adjustments.
- Field cleaner: Examine saws for damage, clean residue buildup, and check belt tension.
- Module builder: Verify wrap system function and inspect sensors and hydraulic components.
The Value of Professional Pre-Season Service
While daily maintenance is something every operator should handle, professional pre-season inspection catches problems that might not be obvious. Our technicians at Tellus Equipment Solutions understand both your John Deere cotton stripper and the specific challenges of Texas cotton production.
John Deere's Connected Support technology allows remote monitoring, but nothing replaces hands-on inspection by experienced technicians. Annual expert inspections combined with PowerGard extended warranty coverage help ensure your equipment performs like new when you need it most.
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Get Your Cotton Stripper Ready at Tellus Equipment
Don't wait until harvest is breathing down your neck to think about maintenance. Our team at Tellus Equipment Solutions is ready to help you prepare for the 2026 cotton season. Whether you need parts, service, or advice on getting the most from your cotton harvesting equipment, we're your neighbors and partners in this business.
Visit one of our 25 Texas locations to discuss your pre-season needs. From the Rio Grande Valley to the Panhandle, Tellus Equipment Solutions understands what Texas cotton producers need to succeed.
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