Simple Maintenance That Pays Off

Just like any heavy-duty machine, your baler runs best when it’s kept clean, inspected regularly, and maintained according to schedule.

Keep the area around the baler clear. Dust, debris, and clutter can interfere with sensors, increase the risk of fire, and lead to overheating, especially around rams and the oil cooler.

Check your oil. Your hydraulic oil plays a big role in how well the baler performs. If it’s contaminated, especially with metal fragments, you may have a bigger issue like a worn cylinder. An oil sample can tell you a lot, and regularly changing filters based on the environment and machine hours is important.

Make training a priority. Not everyone who can run a machine should be operating a baler. Basic training on operation, inspection, and cleaning helps prevent mistakes and keeps the machine in better shape. We’ve seen untrained operators do more harm than good.



Stock critical parts. Waiting for a part during a breakdown is a productivity killer. Ask us which wear items and components you should always have on-hand (like baling wire, shear blades, or sensors), and what has a longer lead time.

Daily, Weekly & Monthly Checklist

You should ask your supplier for guidelines or preventative maintenance check list for your baler. Different makes and models of balers may have different needs but, below is a basic guide than can help you craft your own checklists.

Every Day:

• Check hydraulic fluid levels
• Inspect hoses, cylinders, and connections for leaks
• Monitor oil temperature during operation
• Look for debris around moving parts and sensors
• Test E-stops and safety guarding

Every Week:

• Clean out the bale chamber and around the cylinder housing
• Lubricate moving assemblies, including the knotter and track
• Inspect photo eyes and limit switches
• Check for worn stickers, pins, and bearing play
• Examine oil filters and magnets for contaminants

Every Month:

• Test system pressure
• Inspect shear knife clearance
• Review full performance, if you notice slowing or inconsistent bales, it’s time for a deeper look

Common Signs Something’s Off

Even if it’s still running, your baler might be trying to tell you something. Watch for:

• Uneven or loose bales
• Slower cycle times
• Leaking hydraulic oil
• Increased heat or system strain
• Strange noises under load

These signs usually mean a small issue is about to become a big one.

Let Us Handle the Hard Part

No baler stays perfect forever when you need a reline, a annual inspection, or need help with your preventative maintenance we are here to support you. As leader in scrap and recycling equipment repair count on us when you need it now.

Call to schedule your baler service