If you completed a thorough prestorage inspection at the end of last season, you’re likely in good shape. Regardless, follow these steps for removing your sprayers and application equipment from storage:
- Review the operators manual and storage removal procedures.
- Check fluid levels and look for leaks before starting the engine.
- Connect freshly charged batteries.
- Properly inflate the tires.
Next, it’s time to check the guts of the system.
- Inspect hoses; look for wear or cracking.
- Flush the system with clean water. If you stored it with an antifreeze mix, be sure to cycle through plenty of water.
- Clean nozzles and check flow rates to ensure uniform output; replace any worn nozzles.
- Thoroughly inspect structural components; look for metal cracks or breaks. Clean and touch up any rusted areas with paint.
- Examine wiring and the electrical system; make sure all components, switches and lights work.
Proper application starts with calibration. Be sure to calibrate your spray equipment under field conditions, not on a gravel road or in the farmyard. If field conditions allow, you can check calibration off your to-do list even before that first application window. And don’t forget to check the calibration of wheel or radar speed sensors.
Tech-ready
Even if your sprayer won’t be the first equipment to the field this spring, you need to take these steps to ensure you are ready to begin gathering data. You can also work with your dealer’s precision farming specialist.
Up the accuracy
Visit caseih.com to learn about upgrading your Patriot® series sprayer to AIM Command FLEX™ advanced spray technology. AIM Command FLEX gives you the ultimate in spray control by delivering consistent, flexible and accurate application, regardless of speed and terrain. Using pulse width modulation (PWM) technology, the system enhances the productivity of your Patriot sprayer by controlling product flow and pressure more precisely than conventional rate controllers.
Next steps:
Spend some time preparing your sprayer so weeds and other pests don’t get a jump on your crops. In the meantime, talk to your Case IH dealer to learn about the benefits of upgrading your Patriot sprayer.
