A Closer Look at…Winter Maintenance

Published November 02, 2001

Many regions of the country are experiencing the typical slowdown of exterior pesticide applications that come with the colder weather, except in southerly climes. A lot of pesticide application equipment, which is in use and making money for us most of the year is sitting idle. So, should we ignore it and let it rest in peace until fair weather returns? Of course not!

Application equipment that will be sitting idle for extended periods of time is a prime candidate for overhaul, rebuilding and preventive maintenance. This can help assure that the equipment will be totally functional when next needed, and also helps to run interference against the possibility of equipment failures and leaks that could lead to property damage or misapplications. Here are some maintenance tips.

Spray nozzles are often the most frequently ignored item. Nozzles should be removed from sprayers, cleaned with a soft brush, thoroughly dried, and stored in light oil. Do not use metal objects to unclog nozzles, as this can adversely affect their spray patterns. Same for strainers-clean them and let them soak in light oil.

Bulk tanks should not be allowed to sit in storage if they contain pesticides. Tanks, pumps, and hoses should be thoroughly flushed. During the final rinse, add a good quality anti-freeze, containing a rust inhibitor, to the tank, particularly if you are in an area where a freeze or frost is likely to occur (unless otherwise specified in the operator's manual). This will help lubricate moving parts, and keep any loose water droplets from freezing and cracking expensive parts.

A word of caution is in order here: avoid the use of conventional ethylene glycol-based anti-freeze. It is not recommended for disposal by "shooting it into the soil," or through surface spraying. It should be disposed of as a hazardous material. Instead, use "the pink stuff" that is sold at marinas and RV centers for use in potable water lines. It is cheaper and safer.

Examine hoses and replace as required. Check for any splices or other repairs that you may have forgotten, and evaluate their effectiveness for the coming season. Should the hose be replaced? If so, NOW is the time!

How about the hose reel: when was the last time the swivel joint was replaced or rebuilt?

Is the tank lid intact and fitting tightly enough to prevent spillage? This might be just the time to replace the lid gasket. Examine any quick-disconnects. Should the washers and/or springs be replaced?

Be sure to cover all openings to prevent dirt, insects, rodents, etc., from getting into the system.

Does the tank carry the proper markings that may be required for state or federal DOT regulations?

Last, but certainly not least, check the mounting system for the tank. Be sure all fastenings are intact and not rusty. Any and all rust or corrosion should be removed and painted to prevent further corrosion.

When you are done, you will have a piece of equipment that will be ready for operation at the drop of a hat! Editor's Note: For more maintenance and training information resources, check out PLCAA's Products Catalog at www.plcaa.org or contact Nora Jones at (800) 458-3466/njones@plcaa.org.

Ed Van Istendal is the technical director at WeisburgerGREEN Insurance, White Plains, N.Y. WeisburgerGREEN, in cooperation with PLCAA, offers a complete line of insurance services to the green industry. With over 3,000 customers nationwide, WeisburgerGREEN welcomes inquiries directly from current or potential PLCAA members--or from their local insurance agents. You can contact WeisburgerGREEN at (888) ASK-WEIS or visit their web site at www.weisburger.com (E-mail: weisinsure@weisburger.com). You can also contact PLCAA for information at (800) 458-3466.

This article reprinted with permsission from PLCAA.

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