How to Prepare Your
Brush Chipper and Stump Cutter for Winter
Jay Sarver with Vermeer provides tips for efficient chipper operation during harsh, cold temperatures.
If your brush chipper or stump cutter will be shut down for the winter, be sure to take the proper maintenance steps so your equipment is ready to pull out of the shop and go to work as soon as spring arrives.
JAY SARVER, VERMEER ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICE AND WARRANTY MANAGER, OFFERS THESE SUGGESTIONS:
• Install a new fuel filter and fill the fuel tank and add a fuel stabilizer. Then run the engine for 10 minutes.
• Clean the machine so it is free of dirt and debris, and remove anything that could corrode over the winter.
• Change the hydraulic oil and filter to remove any water from the hydraulic system. After putting in new oil, operate the machine for five to 10 minutes to cycle the oil through the system.
• Grease all grease points well, making sure to have a good build-up of grease for winter and don’t forget the axle hubs. Vermeer®
chipper models have bearings that rotate the cutter
mechanism that need to be purged; grease while the bearings are at their normal operating temperature. As the cutter wheel slows down, pump in new grease until you see new grease come out.
• If you have a model of stump cutter that has a gear box, drain and replace the oil.
• At working temperatures below -15 degrees F -(26.1 degrees C), consider using a lower-weight engine oil, as long as it is approved by the engine manufacturer.
• Remove, clean and store the battery. Put it on a trickle charger.
• Make sure the air pressure in the tires is at the recommended psi.
• Check the coolant ratio to insure a proper 50/50 mixture of antifreeze and water.
• If you plan to use your machine at times during the winter, be sure to set aside time for springtime maintenance before beginning a full-time schedule.
“In addition to this maintenance checklist, winter is also a good time to look at areas that may not have caused operational issues and were overlooked in the summer when you were busy,” says Sarver. “Trailer lighting and connections to your tow vehicle are two good examples.”
Be sure to check the maintenance manual that was provided with your machine for service intervals. If you cannot locate your unit’s manual, contact
customerdata@vermeer.com to order a free manual. Your Vermeer dealer has well-trained service technicians to assist you. At the time of purchase, you can also sign up for the dealer’s preventive maintenance program, which will ensure timely inspection and service.
vermeer.com | 11
t
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17