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6 - Maintenance
Storing the mistblower at the end of the season
When the spraying season is over, you should devote some extra time on the machine before storing it. If any chemical
residues are left on the mistblower for a long period, it can reduce the service life of the components. To keep the mistblower
intact and protect the components, you should perform the tasks as part of an off-season storage programme.
1. Clean the mistblower completely inside and out, as described in 'Cleaning the mistblower' . Make sure that all the
valves, hoses and auxiliary equipment have been washed with detergent and rinsed with clean water afterwards, to
ensure that no traces of chemical products are left on the mistblower.
2. Replace the o-rings and repair any possible leaks.
3. Empty the mistblower completely and let the pump work for five minutes. Open all the valves to drain as much water
as possible from the circuit.
4. Pour approximately 50 litres of anti-freeze mixture in the tank (1/3 anti-freeze and 2/3 water).
5. Start the pump and operate the controls of the 3-way valves, operating unit, etc. so that the anti-freeze is distributed
throughout the entire circuit. Open the main ON/OFF valve and the distribution valves so that the anti-freeze is
delivered through the nozzles also. The anti-freeze prevents the o-rings, seals, diaphragms, etc. from drying out.
6. Lubricate all the lubrication points according to the lubrication scheme. Disregard the normal lubrication intervals in
this case.
7. When the mistblower is dry, remove the rust from any possible scratches or marks in the paint, and touch up the
paintwork.
8. Remove the pressure gauge and store it a vertical position in a frost-free location.
9. Apply a thin layer of anti-corrosion oil (e.g. SHELL ENSIS FLUID, CASTROL RUSTILLO or similar) to all metal parts. Do not
apply to hoses or rubber parts.
10. All the electric plugs and sockets must be kept in plastic bags to protect them from damp, dirt and rust.
11. Remove the control box from the tractor (if fitted), and store it in a clean, dry place (in-house).
12. To protect the mistblower against dust, it can be covered with a tarpaulin. Make sure that it is ventilated to prevent
condensation.
Preparing the machine for use after storage
After storage, the machine should be prepared for safely starting work at the beginning of the season. To start up the
machine correctly, proceed as follows:
1. Remove the tarpaulin protecting the machine if there is one.
2. Fit the pressure gauge again. Replace the old Telfon tape.
3. Connect the equipment to the tractor, including electric wires and hydraulic cables.
4. Check the brake.
5. Empty the tank of any remaining anti-freeze.
6. Rinse out the entire fluid circuit with clean water.
7. Fill the tank with clean water and check all functions.
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