Apache Maintenance: Weekly Checklist

In addition to the daily checklist, your Apache 20 series also needs further maintenance checks on a weekly basis. Regular maintenance on your self-propelled sprayer will help prevent downtime in the fields. 

Re-torque the wheel lug nuts and boom lead bolts 

Starting with the wheel lug nuts, check the torque of the rear wheel lug nuts. The rear wheels are large and can have deflection that can possibly work to loosen the lug nuts. Additionally, hillsides exert a large force on the wheels especially when loaded. Torques should be set at 420 pounds on both the front and rear wheels.

It is important to re-torque the boom lead bolts to 420 pounds as well in the first hours of operation after the powdercoat on the brackets has had time to settle in. This is called the boom adjustment clevis.

Important points to grease

Start with the steering components, it is important to grease the tie end rods on the cylinders because a lack of grease can cause premature wear which can cause erratic steering. On the other hand, do not over grease or you can blow out the rubber boots. Beyond this, greasing the kingpins will prevent them from binding in the axle tubes. Additionally, if they are left unattended, they will require more hydraulic pressure from the steering motor that can cause a chatter in the steering system. Also, the center pivot bushings will require a weekly grease to extend the life expectancy.

Check Differential Fluid Level

While it is important for the differential to have an adequate amount of fluid, it is also important not to overfill the differential. Too much oil can cause the differential to run hot enough to push oil out of the vents. The vents should also be inspected to make sure air is able to move in and out of the differential with temperature changes. 

Re-Phase Steering Cylinders

To re-phase the steering cylinders, turn the wheels to the right and continue to turn the steering wheel after the wheels stop turning. This will allow oil to purge the system. Then repeat this process on the left side. You may need to move the machine forward to extend or retract the cylinder fully, unlock the steering wheel. Then continue turning the steering wheel 10 revolutions to the left which allows the oil to finish the re-phasing procedure.  Re-phasing the steering cylinders on the adjustable axles will remove air from the system on adjustable axle machines that could cause the wheels to toe in.

Adjust Poly Tank Straps

Since wet straps can stretch and may cause the tank to loosen up, it is important to readjust the poly tank straps weekly. Tighten straps as much as possible because loose straps can cause the tank to shift. We recommend doing this adjustment with 250 gallons of water in the product tank. 

Grease Driveline

Greasing the driveline will keep the slip yoke from slipping and this will prevent the carrier bearing from being forced out of the holder. Beyond this, greasing the driveline will prevent wear on the driveshaft which could cause chatter. 

Boom Adjustments

Regular boom adjustments are crucial to the longevity of your booms because keeping the boom in adjustment will prevent it from breaking. The sway adjustment bolts should maintain a credit card thickness gap between the wear strip and one of the steel tubes at each of the 4 corners. The breakbacks should be straight with the rest of the boom. The tip fold cylinder linkage should have very slight movement from side to side.

Additional Equipment

If you have added features on your Apache, such as foam markers, then additional weekly maintenance will be needed. Using the rinse tank water, clean the foam marker parts. Also, take time to clean the strainers because they could burn up the pump if they are not properly maintained.

Just as important as daily maintenance checks, weekly maintenance is a key component to preventing costly repairs. This weekly checklist is designed for the 20 series Apache, and older models may need additional maintenance.