Discover a collection of inventive methods to control oil and grease during equipment maintenance, shared by experienced farmers. These practical tips ensure a cleaner workspace and more efficient processes, making your work easier and safer.

Streamlining Fluid Management with Clever Tools and Techniques

Managing fluids efficiently is crucial for maintaining a clean and organized workshop. Farmers have devised ingenious ways to handle oil changes and storage, ensuring spills are minimized and tools are easily accessible. From simple household items to custom-built contraptions, these solutions make routine maintenance tasks less messy and more manageable.

For instance, Mark Schnell from Michigan suggests using a kiddie pool to catch spills when changing tractor oil. This method prevents oil from spreading on the shop floor, keeping the area tidy. David Unruh from Idaho took it a step further by converting a fuel tank into an oil caddy. By welding expanded metal and adding wheels, he created a mobile station for draining and storing used oil. The addition of a hydraulic pump powered by an electric drill makes transferring oil effortless. Karl Gaul from Iowa offers a neat trick for avoiding oily hands during filter removal: slipping a plastic bread bag over your arm before handling filters ensures you stay clean even when dealing with hot oil. Meanwhile, Gerald Smith from Iowa solved the frustration of slow-flowing fluids by attaching a small tube to his funnel, allowing air to escape and improving fluid flow.

Enhancing Accessibility and Safety with Customized Equipment

Accessibility and safety are paramount when working on machinery. Farmers have developed clever modifications to make their tools more user-friendly and reduce the risk of accidents. These innovations not only save time but also enhance the overall efficiency of equipment maintenance.

Jerry Soukup from Nebraska tackled the issue of loose lubricant cans by welding short sections of exhaust tubing to angle iron. This mountable assembly keeps cans organized and within reach, preventing accidental messes. Eric Dezeeuw from Michigan faced difficulty greasing fittings on his combine due to their hard-to-reach location. His solution was to create a 4-foot extension using pipe and a grease gun coupler, enabling him to grease fittings from a more accessible angle. Finally, David Carson from Illinois improved the usability of locking grease gun fittings by attaching a 90-degree zerk fitting. This modification allows for better access to tight spaces, ensuring thorough lubrication without compromising safety. These creative adaptations demonstrate the ingenuity of farmers in enhancing both accessibility and safety in their workshops.