As per other replies, tarps are often the worst scenario to trap moisture. Air circulation is the key. Farm equipment kept under open sided sheds can survive quite well for decades if the building openings are away from the prevailing wind and light and air can circulate. The floor surface is also a big factor. Moisture from the floor surface (whatever it is) and the chemistry of the soil will have a big effect on the machinery sitting above it over time.

Rather than WD-40, an industrial penetrating lubricant and corrosion inhibitor such as CRC 3-36 will be much more effective if re-applied regularly to equipment sitting outside. The CRC line includes a wide range of corrosion inhibitor products varying in viscosity and protective qualities. Several are designed for the protection of heavy equipment that is going to sit outside indefinitely, including some products with military specs. Vehicle conservator Malcolm Collum, formerly with The Henry Ford and now with the Smithsonian's National Air & Space Museum, recommended CRC products and has written about their long-term use in museum collections.

Greetings! I am wondering if anyone can offer advice on how to treat/preserve old farm equipment. We have several large pieces including a manure spreader, seeder, and a few wagons. Unfortunately, we do not have room in our barn for storing these pieces during the winter months so we have been covering them with tarps. The donor had previously treated these pieces by brushing old motor oil on the metal and creosote on the wood. One other source suggested brushing the metal with WD-40 and treating the wood with an equal parts mixture of boiled linseed oil and turpentine.

Thankfully, the donor is willing to pay for any chemicals/supplies necessary, as well as new tarps. Are the methods listed above acceptable, or is there a better way to treat these pieces?

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Many thanks for any suggestions or advice!

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