While it’s hard to predict what 2021 will bring, what we know with certainty is that the early year cold weather is already upon us and machinery maintenance is a constant.

What is also definite is that Toro parts and distributor Reesink Turfcare continue to have all you need to make this essential job as hassle-free as possible. 

Keeping surfaces in play and maintained properly throughout winter is tough enough, but good maintenance will ensure your machines are functioning to their full capabilities whatever the elements throw at you. And there are simple cold-weather tips that can mean when it’s time to bring your machine out of storage, it should be as easy as adding fuel and checking the oil to quickly get up and running. 

Check the manual 

In an ideal world maintenance should always be done as per the machinery manufacturer’s instructions in order to keep standards high. If perhaps there wasn’t the time to do this throughout the year, now’s the time to rectify that. Toro includes a recommended maintenance guide inside the owner’s manual for every piece of equipment which will provide machine specifics.  

Change the oil 

Many people think, “I’ll change the oil in the spring.” But allowing contaminated and diluted oil to sit in the engine during months of storage can cause sludge that leads to corrosion and rust. When it comes to the start of a new year, always think “out with the old, in with the new.” 

Drain the fuel tank 

Modern fuel contains ethanol that begins to break down after about 30 days, leaving a varnish that can eat away at any aluminium it comes in contact with. Protect your fuel system by draining the fuel tank and running the engine to empty the carburettor. If you can’t drain the fuel tank, add in a good fuel stabiliser and then top off the tank. Run the engine for five minutes to circulate the stabiliser throughout the fuel system.  

Clean inside and out 

Dirt lowers performance, grass can cause rust. It’s time for a deep clean. Always remember to clean or replace the air filter before storing your equipment. If possible, cover the machine to keep out dust and damp. 

Keep the battery charged 

If your machine is equipped with a battery, check its electrolyte level and top off with distilled water if needed. Place the battery on a float type charger to maintain a full charge until the next season. 

Sharpen cutting units 

Sharp blades are essential for a quality finish all year, but cutting turf in wet conditions makes it more difficult to get a perfect finish, so in winter this job is even more important. With a blade for all seasons, choosing Toro guarantees not only a perfect fit but one carefully crafted to suit specific turf needs. For example, the ‘Atomic’ blades are best in the wetter winter months, perfect for mulching up leaves or for use with a recycling deck to mulch the grass.   

Change tyres and check stock  

Switching to new tyres to ensure you have improved grip in the face of unforgiving ground conditions as well as keeping a stock of replacement parts will ensure productivity remains high. Think about your high use performance parts and carry enough in stock to minimise downtime later. 

Michael Hampton, Reesink’s parts manager, says: “Clubs may well not have the budget they thought they would for new and replacement machinery at the moment, but take good care of your machine and make sure all the parts are performing as they should be, and that shouldn’t be a problem.   

“Reesink has a constant supply of all Toro Genuine Parts from the great value MVP kits, to blades, tines, filters and everything else you may need. With our supply system constant and consistent in its fast delivery, it means customers don’t need to worry about downtime and a drop in productivity. Even in lockdown we were still able to safely have orders ready for dispatch in ample time for delivery within 24 hours to our customers.”  

reesinkturfcare.co.uk