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Post-Baling Care: Maintaining Your Baler Before Winter Storage

A John Deere tractor pulls a round baler attachment in Texas.

posted on Thursday, September 18, 2025 in Dealer News

Your John Deere round baler has worked hard this season, creating countless bales across your Texas fields. Now, as harvest season winds down, proper winter storage prep will protect your investment and guarantee reliable performance next spring.

If you’re curious about post-baling care, especially for winter storage, keep reading for the best tips from Tellus Equipment Solutions.

Essential Cleaning Steps

A round baler ejects a perfectly formed bale using a John Deere round baler attachment.

Start by removing all crop debris from your baler. Leftover hay, grass, and plant matter trap moisture, leading to rust and damage during cold months. Use compressed air or a power washer to clean all parts thoroughly. Pay special attention to the roller chains and belts where debris commonly accumulates.

Check for any wrapped material around moving parts. Even small amounts of twine or plastic can cause serious damage if left unattended through winter.

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Lubrication and Fluid Maintenance

Fresh grease and oil changes protect your baler's mechanical systems during storage. Replace hydraulic fluid if it looks old or dirty or has exceeded its recommended usage.

Inspect hydraulic hoses for cracks, bulges, or leaks. Replace damaged hoses before storage rather than discovering problems during next season's first use. No one likes to pull their equipment out of storage for the first use of the year and find that it’s inoperable!

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Important Maintenance Tasks Before Storage

Your round baler needs attention in several key areas before winter storage.

  • Inspect and adjust baler tines for proper alignment and tension.
  • Check knife assemblies for sharpness and secure mounting.
  • Examine belts for cracks, fraying, or excessive wear.
  • Verify proper tension on all drive chains and replace worn links.
  • Test safety systems, including PTO shields and warning labels.

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Ensure A Proper Storage Environment

Store your John Deere baler in a dry, covered building whenever possible. If outdoor storage is necessary or unavoidable, use a high-quality tarp designed for heavy equipment protection. Position the baler on level ground and set the parking brake if it has one.

You should also lower the pickup assembly to reduce spring tension during storage. This simple step extends component life and maintains proper adjustment for the next season.

Seasonal Inspection and Documentation

A John Deere tractor works a hay field in Texas with a John Deere round baler attachment.

Taking notes is one of the smartest things you can do as a farmer or property owner, and it’s important to document any repairs needed for next season. Take photos of worn components or areas requiring attention. This documentation helps you plan parts orders and service appointments before the next baling season begins.

For extra precaution, you can remove the PTO driveline and store it separately to prevent theft and reduce weather exposure.

Prepare for Next Season's Success

Proper winter storage preparation today saves time and money next spring! Your round baler will start the season ready for reliable operation, helping you maintain productivity during critical harvest times.

If you need a little extra expert advice, contact Tellus Equipment Solutions for genuine John Deere parts, service appointments, or technical support. Our technicians understand Texas farming conditions and how to keep your equipment running at peak performance year-round. Call us today!

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