Is Your Bolens Equipment Prepared for Winter Maintenance Tasks

As winter approaches, many Bolens tractor and equipment owners face challenges starting and operating their machines in cold weather. Without proper preparation, your Bolens equipment may suffer from engine damage, battery failure, or other issues that could lead to costly repairs or downtime. Taking the right steps now ensures your equipment stays reliable and ready for winter tasks.

This guide covers essential winter maintenance tasks for your Bolens tractor and related equipment. Follow these practical steps to protect your investment and keep your machines running smoothly through the cold months.

Bolens tractor prepared for winter maintenance

Replace Old Gas with Fresh Fuel

Gasoline degrades over time, especially when left in equipment tanks for months. Old gas can cause starting problems, clog fuel lines, and damage the engine. Before winter sets in, drain any old fuel from your Bolens equipment and refill with fresh gasoline.

• Why replace gas? Gasoline oxidizes and forms varnish-like deposits that block carburetors and fuel injectors.

• How to replace gas: Run the engine until it uses up most of the old fuel, then drain the remaining gas from the tank and carburetor. Refill with fresh fuel mixed with a fuel stabilizer to prevent degradation during storage.

• Fuel stabilizer tip: Add stabilizer to fresh gas if you plan to store equipment for more than 30 days.

  
  

Replacing old gas prevents hard starts and keeps your engine running cleanly in cold weather.

Change the Oil for Better Engine Protection

Cold temperatures thicken engine oil, making it harder for the engine to turn over and receive proper lubrication. Changing the oil before winter ensures your Bolens equipment’s engine is protected and performs efficiently.

• Use the right oil: Check your owner’s manual for recommended oil viscosity for winter. Typically, thinner oils like 5W-30 flow better in cold.

• Oil change steps: Warm up the engine to loosen old oil, drain it completely, replace the oil filter, and refill with fresh oil.

• Frequency: Change oil at least once a year or after 50 hours of use, whichever comes first.

  
  

Fresh oil reduces engine wear, improves cold starts, and extends engine life during winter.

Charge and Maintain the Battery

Cold weather reduces battery capacity and makes starting engines more difficult. A fully charged battery is essential for reliable starts on frosty mornings.

• Check battery condition: Inspect terminals for corrosion and clean if needed. Test voltage with a multimeter.

• Charge the battery: Use a smart charger to fully charge the battery before winter. Avoid jump-starting as a regular practice.

• Battery storage: If storing equipment, disconnect the battery and store it in a warm, dry place.

  
  

Proper battery care prevents unexpected failures and keeps your Bolens equipment ready to go.

Additional Winter Preparation Tips

Beyond gas, oil, and battery care, consider these steps to fully prepare your Bolens equipment:

• Inspect tires: Check tire pressure and tread. Cold weather lowers tire pressure, which affects traction.

• Lubricate moving parts: Apply grease to joints, cables, and linkages to prevent freezing and rust.

• Check coolant levels: For liquid-cooled engines, ensure antifreeze levels are adequate to prevent freezing.

• Clean equipment: Remove dirt, grass, and debris to avoid corrosion during storage.

• Store properly: Keep equipment in a dry, sheltered area away from moisture and extreme cold.

  
  

Why Winter Maintenance Matters

Proper winter preparation saves time and money by reducing breakdowns and extending equipment life. Bolens tractors and machines that receive regular maintenance start easier, run smoother, and require fewer repairs.

Ignoring winter maintenance risks:

• Engine damage from old fuel and dirty oil

• Battery failure leaving you stranded

• Frozen or rusted parts causing costly repairs

• Reduced equipment lifespan

  
  

Taking a few hours now to prepare your Bolens equipment protects your investment and ensures you can rely on your machines when you need them most.

Final Thoughts

Winter can be tough on outdoor equipment, but your Bolens tractor and tools don’t have to suffer. Replace old gas, change the oil, charge the battery, and perform other key maintenance tasks to keep your machines in top shape. Preparing your equipment now means fewer headaches and more productivity when cold weather arrives.

Start your winter maintenance today and keep your Bolens equipment ready for any challenge the season brings.