8 Tools for Maintaining a Manure Spreader on a Small Farm

A manure spreader is the unsung hero of any small-scale farm, turning animal waste into valuable soil nutrients. However, the highly corrosive nature of manure means this essential machine can quickly turn into a rusted pile of useless metal without proper upkeep. Having the right toolkit on hand ensures that maintenance is quick, effective, and performed before a minor squeak becomes a costly breakdown.

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Why Spreader Maintenance Matters on a Small Farm

Small acreage operations rely heavily on machinery that must wear many hats and last for years. A manure spreader operates in one of the most hostile environments imaginable, constantly exposed to moisture, highly corrosive organic acids, and abrasive grit. Neglecting basic maintenance doesn’t just shorten the equipment’s lifespan; it leads to mid-season failures that halt daily chores and leave manure piling up where it shouldn’t.

Regular upkeep on a small farm is about protecting a significant financial investment. Because replacement parts can be hard to source quickly for smaller ground-drive or PTO-driven models, preventative care is the best defense. Simple habits like greasing bearings and clearing debris prevent the high-torque chains and gears from binding, ensuring the machine runs smoothly whenever it is hitched to the tractor or ATV.

Grease Gun – Lincoln 1134 Heavy Duty Pistol Grip

Bearings, drive chains, and wheel hubs on a spreader endure constant friction under heavy loads. A reliable grease gun is the primary defense against seized components, forcing fresh lubricant into grease zerks to push out abrasive dirt and moisture. Without regular greasing, the high-friction environment of a spreader will quickly destroy expensive bronze bushings and roller bearings.

The Lincoln 1134 Heavy Duty Pistol Grip is the ideal choice for small farm workshops because of its robust build and easy one-handed operation. Its cast-aluminum head and heavy-duty return spring ensure consistent pressure, while the pistol grip design allows the user to easily maneuver under the spreader chassis while holding the coupler in place. It delivers up to 7,500 PSI, which is more than enough power to clear out dried, stubborn clogs in neglected fittings.

Before purchasing, consider that this manual gun requires a bit of forearm strength to operate continuously, and loading grease cartridges can be messy for beginners. It is highly recommended to pair this tool with a locking grease coupler to prevent grease from bypassing the zerk under high pressure. This tool is perfect for owners of compact spreaders who want a durable, lifetime tool without the expense or battery-maintenance hassle of cordless electric grease guns.

• Delivers up to 7,500 PSI of pressure
• Pistol grip design for comfortable, one-handed operation
• Includes a 18-inch whip hose and rigid extension
• Compatible with standard 14-ounce grease cartridges

Pressure Washer – Simpson MSH3125 MegaShot

Manure is highly acidic and holds moisture directly against the steel bed and wooden floorboards of a spreader. Leaving a layer of wet manure on the machine after use accelerates rust and wood rot at an alarming rate. A high-powered pressure washer is the only efficient way to blast away packed organic matter from hard-to-reach corners, chain links, and the beater paddles.

The Simpson MSH3125 MegaShot stands out because it pairs a highly reliable Honda GC190 engine with an OEM Technologies axial cam pump. Delivering 3200 PSI at 2.5 GPM, this unit provides the raw blasting power needed to strip away dried, baked-on manure without damaging the underlying metal. Its compact, heavy-duty steel frame and pneumatic tires make it easy to wheel across uneven pasture ground to reach the wash station.

While highly effective, users must exercise caution around sealed bearings and grease seals, as high-pressure water can bypass seals and wash out critical grease. It also requires a steady supply of clean water, so a low-yield well might struggle to keep up during long cleaning sessions. This gas-powered unit is ideal for farmers who need serious cleaning power far from an electrical outlet, though it may be overkill for those with very small, light-duty poly-tub spreaders.

• 3200 PSI at 2.5 GPM for rapid cleaning
• Powered by a reliable Honda GC190 engine
• 10-inch premium pneumatic tires for easy transport over rough farm terrain
• Includes 5 quick-connect nozzle tips (0°, 15°, 25°, 40°, and soap)

Chain Lube – Liquid Wrench Chain and Cable Lube

The drive chains on a manure spreader are exposed to dust, mud, and corrosive liquids, making standard lubricants ineffective. Standard grease often acts like a magnet for grit, creating an abrasive paste that rapidly wears down sprockets and chain links. A dedicated chain lubricant must penetrate deep into the chain pins while leaving a dry or non-tacky protective barrier.

Liquid Wrench Chain and Cable Lube is formulated specifically to prevent wear and corrosion on heavy-use machinery chains. It goes on as a liquid to penetrate deep into the rollers and links, then dries to a tack-free, heavy-duty protective film that actively repels dirt and dust. This prevents the grinding paste effect, significantly extending the life of the spreader’s main drive chains and apron chains.

This aerosol lubricant requires regular application, especially after washing the spreader, as water will eventually strip it away. It should be applied to a clean, dry chain for maximum adhesion, meaning some prep work with a wire brush is often necessary. This product is a must-have for any chain-driven spreader owner, but it is not intended for high-speed engine components or sealed gearboxes requiring heavy gear oil.

• Anti-wear additives extend chain and sprocket life
• Dries to a non-tacky film that repels dirt, dust, and grit
• Convenient aerosol spray can with extension straw for precise application
• Excellent for apron chains, drive chains, and open gears

Socket Set – DeWalt DWMT73804 Drive Tool Set

Spreader maintenance frequently requires tightening loose bolts, adjusting chain tensioners, or removing access panels for deep cleaning. Because these machines are subjected to constant vibration during operation, fasteners can easily back out over time. A comprehensive, high-quality socket set is essential for keeping every bolt torqued to spec and performing roadside repairs when a shear pin snaps.

The DeWalt DWMT73804 Drive Tool Set offers a rugged selection of 1/4-inch and 3/8-inch drive sockets housed in a durable, impact-resistant case. The sockets feature DirectTorque technology, which prevents rounding of rusted or stubborn fasteners by gripping the flat sides rather than the corners. The 72-tooth ratchets provide a tight 5-degree arc swing, making it much easier to work in the cramped spaces around the spreader’s drive shafts and gearboxes.

This set is highly portable, but it does not include larger 1/2-inch drive sockets, which may be required for major structural repairs or wheel lug nuts on larger spreaders. Users should also note that while the chrome finish resists rust, storing the set in a damp barn will eventually lead to corrosion if the tools are not wiped down after use. It is the perfect field kit for routine adjustments and quick fixes, though heavy-duty mechanics may eventually need to supplement it with larger impact sockets.

• 1/4-inch and 3/8-inch drive sizes covering standard and metric fasteners
• 72-tooth ratchets with a slim profile for tight spaces
• DirectTorque technology to minimize fastener rounding
• Housed in a durable, lockable carrying case

Pry Bar – Tekton 3324 18-Inch Angled Pry Bar

Adjusting the tension on heavy conveyor chains or aligning stubborn drive shafts requires leverage that human hands simply cannot provide. Attempting to force these components into place with screwdrivers or makeshift wooden levers often results in bent tools or injured knuckles. A dedicated pry bar allows for controlled, high-leverage adjustments to keep the spreader tracking straight.

The Tekton 3324 18-Inch Angled Pry Bar is built from heavy-duty square steel stock that resists bending under extreme loads. Its angled tip provides an optimal leverage fulcrum, allowing users to easily pry up heavy apron chains or nudge stubborn wheels into alignment. The comfortable, ergonomic handle features a striking cap on the end, meaning it can be tapped with a hammer to wedge the tip into tight, rusted joints.

At 18 inches, this bar strikes the perfect balance between leverage and portability, though exceptionally large spreaders may require a longer 24- or 36-inch bar for heavy structural shifting. Users must be careful not to apply excessive force to thin sheet metal panels, as the high leverage can easily crease or puncture light-gauge steel. This tool is indispensable for aligning chain tensioners and checking bearing play, but it is not designed for heavy demolition work.

• 18-inch length provides excellent leverage for mid-sized farm equipment
• Angled tip maximizes leverage in tight spaces
• Square steel shaft resists bending under heavy loads
• Striking cap on the handle allows for hammer assistance

Wire Brush – Osborn 30182 Carbon Steel Scratch Brush

Before applying paint, rust converter, or fresh lubricant, the metal surfaces of a spreader must be cleared of loose rust, scale, and dried manure. Applying protective coatings over loose debris is a waste of time, as the rust will continue to eat away at the steel underneath. A stiff wire brush is the most effective manual tool for prepping these surfaces and cleaning out chain links.

The Osborn 30182 Carbon Steel Scratch Brush features densely packed, high-tensile carbon steel wire bristles that aggressively strip away rust and scale. The ergonomic curved wooden handle provides a secure grip, allowing the user to apply significant downward pressure without slipping. Its narrow profile is specifically designed to reach into tight crevices, channel iron, and behind sprockets where rust loves to hide.

Because the carbon steel bristles are highly aggressive, they will scratch paint and soft metals, so this brush should not be used on aluminum or galvanized surfaces where the protective zinc coating must be preserved. The bristles will eventually wear down or clog with grease, requiring periodic cleaning with a solvent. This is an essential, low-cost prep tool for any farmer tackling rust prevention, though large-scale rust removal may require a wire wheel attachment for an angle grinder.

• High-tensile carbon steel bristles for aggressive rust removal
• Curved shoe-handle design for comfortable, high-leverage scrubbing
• Excellent for cleaning welds, chain links, and rusted steel beds
• Durable hardwood block construction resists cracking

Rust Converter – Corroseal Rust Converter Primer

Once rust takes hold on a steel spreader bed, simply painting over it will not stop the oxidation process. A rust converter chemically transforms iron oxide (rust) into a stable, protective barrier, halting the corrosion process in its tracks. This chemical treatment is crucial for extending the life of older steel spreaders that are constantly exposed to corrosive animal waste.

Corroseal Rust Converter Primer is a water-based copolymer formula that converts rust into a hard, black protective coating while acting as a high-quality primer. It can be brushed, rolled, or sprayed directly onto rusted surfaces after loose scale has been wire-brushed away. Once cured, it creates a non-porous barrier that prevents moisture and oxygen from reaching the underlying steel, readying the surface for a durable topcoat.

For Corroseal to work effectively, it must react with actual rust; applying it to bare, unrusted steel will not trigger the chemical conversion, and the product will simply wash off. It also requires warm, dry weather to cure properly, so application should be planned during the dry summer months rather than damp spring or winter. This product is highly recommended for restoring older steel-sided spreaders, but it is unnecessary for modern poly-plastic or fully galvanized models.

• Water-based formula makes cleanup easy with soap and water
• Converts rust to magnetite and primes the surface in one step
• Can be applied via brush, roller, or paint sprayer
• Non-flammable and non-corrosive formula

Work Gloves – Wells Lamont HydraHyde Leather Gloves

Spreader maintenance is a dirty, physical job that exposes hands to sharp metal edges, heavy chains, corrosive chemicals, and animal pathogens. Standard fabric gloves quickly saturate with moisture and grime, offering little protection against pinches or abrasions. Heavy-duty leather gloves are essential for protecting hands while maintaining a secure grip on greasy tools and heavy components.

The Wells Lamont HydraHyde Leather Gloves are crafted from premium grain cowhide that has been chemically treated to resist water and moisture. Unlike standard leather that stiffens and cracks after getting wet, HydraHyde leather remains soft and pliable even after repeated exposure to water and mud. The reinforced palm patch provides extra durability in high-wear areas, while the keystone thumb design ensures excellent dexterity when handling small bolts or grease fittings.

While highly water-resistant, these gloves are not completely waterproof and will eventually saturate if submerged or exposed to heavy rain for extended periods. They require proper air-drying away from direct heat sources to maintain their softness and longevity. These gloves are perfect for general farm chores and heavy maintenance, but users working extensively with liquid rust converters or solvents may want to wear disposable nitrile gloves underneath for chemical protection.

• HydraHyde water-resistant grain cowhide stays soft and pliable
• Reinforced palm patch for added durability and grip
• Keystone thumb design for improved fit and dexterity
• Elastic wrist keeps out dirt, debris, and farm grime

Essential Safety Steps Before Performing Maintenance

Working on a manure spreader presents several serious safety hazards, including high-torque moving parts, heavy PTO shafts, and heavy gravity-fed gates. Before picking up a single tool, the towing vehicle’s engine must be shut off, the ignition key removed, and the parking brake securely set. If the spreader is PTO-driven, the power take-off shaft must be completely disengaged and disconnected from the tractor to prevent accidental startup.

Never work under or near the rear beater paddles or apron chains while the machine is pressurized or hitched. If the spreader features a hydraulic tailgate, always engage the physical safety transport locks or block the gate securely with heavy timber before working underneath it. Finally, ensure the spreader is parked on flat, level ground and the wheels are securely chocked to prevent any rolling while adjusting chains or bearings.

How to Properly Clean Your Spreader After Each Use

The single most effective way to extend the life of a manure spreader is to clean it thoroughly immediately after every use. Allowing manure to sit in the bed, even for a few days, creates a highly acidic environment that eats through protective paint coatings and rots wooden floorboards. Begin by completely emptying the spreader, ensuring no packed material remains in the front corners or around the rear beaters.

Use a high-pressure washer to blast away all remaining organic matter from the interior bed, tailgate, and exterior chassis. Pay close attention to the apron chain links, drive sprockets, and the undersides of the beater paddles, as these areas tend to trap wet debris. Once the machine is clean, run the spreader empty for a few minutes to fling off excess water, then park it on a slight incline to allow any remaining water to drain completely away from the steel bed.

Creating a Seasonal Spreader Maintenance Schedule

A reliable seasonal maintenance schedule prevents unexpected breakdowns during peak spreading seasons in the spring and fall. Before the spring rush, inspect the entire machine for loose fasteners, check the gearbox oil levels, and apply a fresh layer of grease to all zerk fittings. Check the tension on the apron and drive chains, adjusting them according to the manufacturer’s specifications to prevent slipping or binding under load.

During the active summer and fall spreading seasons, perform a quick visual inspection before each hookup, checking for wrapped twine, wire, or debris around the beater shafts. Grease the primary bearings every ten to fifteen loads, especially if operating in wet, muddy conditions. Before winter storage, perform a deep clean, apply rust converter to any bare steel, coat the chains in high-quality chain lube, and store the machine under a roof or heavy tarp to protect it from snow and ice.

Taking the time to maintain a manure spreader ensures this hardworking machine remains a reliable asset on a small farm for decades. By assembling a dedicated toolkit and sticking to a consistent cleaning and lubrication schedule, costly mid-season breakdowns can be completely avoided. Protect the investment, keep the chains moving freely, and let the spreader do the heavy lifting season after season.