A thorough maintenance routine at the end of the season protects your equipment investment and keeps your spreaders, sprayers, and tanks ready for the next planting cycle. Use this checklist to catch small issues before they become costly downtime.
CLEAN ALL APPLICATION EQUIPMENT
Remove fertilizer residue, herbicide buildup, and field debris from hoppers, booms, and tanks. Residual chemicals corrode metal components and contaminate the next application season. Wash undercarriages and frames to prevent rust and identify cracks that debris hides during fieldwork.
INSPECT CONVEYOR SYSTEMS AND AUGERS
Check for worn flighting, bent slats, and loose chain tension on conveyor assemblies. Even application depends on uniform material delivery, so worn parts create inconsistency that carries into next season. Replace damaged components now, since parts availability is better during the off-season.
SERVICE THE SPINNER DISK AND SPREAD PATTERN
Clean and inspect spinner disks for cracks, warping, or uneven wear. Damaged disks produce poor spread patterns that waste input and create strips across the field. Recalibrate and run a test pattern on a clean surface to verify uniformity before you store the spreader.
CHECK PUMP, HOSES, AND NOZZLE ASSEMBLIES
Flush spray systems with clean water and run an approved tank cleaner through all lines. Inspect pumps for leaks, check hose fittings for cracks, and replace clogged or worn nozzles. A compromised nozzle produces uneven droplet size, which affects coverage and efficacy in the next season.
GREASE BEARINGS, PIVOT POINTS, AND DRIVELINES
Hit every grease fitting on the machine, including those tucked behind shields or guards. Lubricate pivot points, drivelines, and wheel bearings to push moisture out and protect moving parts during storage. This simple step prevents seized bearings and extends component life significantly.
EXAMINE TIRES, BRAKES, AND LIGHTING
Look for dry rot, cuts, and uneven tire wear. Check brake pads, hydraulic lines, and all lights for proper operation. Equipment that sits for months degrades faster when underlying issues are left unaddressed, so repair now and roll into storage with confidence.
PROTECT THE TANK AND PLUMBING
Drain tanks completely and open all valves to prevent freezing or residual buildup. Add manufacturer-approved storage treatment to liquid systems to keep seals and gaskets pliable. Cover intakes and vents to keep rodents and debris out during the off months.
DOCUMENT REPAIRS AND PARTS NEEDED
Log every issue, part number, and repair you make during the end-of-season equipment maintenance routine. This record helps you budget, plan preseason work, and communicate directly with your Newton Crouch dealer when it is time to reorder. Good documentation turns guesswork into a simple, repeatable process.
STORE IN A DRY, COVERED SPACE
Park equipment on level ground with tanks empty, booms retracted, and power disconnected. Cover or tarp the machine if indoor storage is unavailable. Proper storage conditions protect paint, decals, and electrical components so your equipment is field-ready when the season returns.
End of season equipment maintenance is not a task to delay. Completing this checklist now saves repair costs, prevents startup delays, and keeps your Newton Crouch spreader or sprayer operating at the performance level your operation depends on.