DIY Shrink Wrap?

[Garandman]

Have a big (25’ x 20’) piece of shrink wrap from a boat. Most of it wasn稚 shrunk, just the bottom.

Like to use it to cover some items this winter. What do I need to shrink it?

There are propane fueled burner heads to burn weeds, $30-50. Will those work?

Propane Torch with Push Button Igniter

 

[Diggin It]

I don't believe you'd want any open flame. Heat gun or hair dryer.

But then again, I believe all you'll do is trap moisture under it which could lead to bigger problems, and I'm not sure why you'd want to cover a tool meant to be outside. Maybe build it a small shed type shelter?

 

[pjigar]

+1. Or buy a cover for about $30.

 

[Peter 315]

I would put the mower on blocks take the pto shaft off and spray it with Fluid Film top and bottom....:2cents:

 

[RickB]

I would put the mower on blocks take the pto shaft off and spray it with Fluid Film top and bottom....:2cents:

Agree. Clean and uncovered. The tighter any cover is, the more moisture is trapped and that promotes rust.

 

[Garandman]

Want to cover the gearbox and have some other stuff I’d like to cover.

 

[TractorGuy]

The last thing you want for storage is a plastic cover.

I made the mistake of wrapping some cylinder heads in bubble wrap one time. When the buyer picked them up instead of having me ship them I found the cams rusted and dripping with condensation.

You would be better served by having a fan on it.

 

[Garandman]

I don't believe you'd want any open flame. Heat gun or hair dryer.

But then again, I believe all you'll do is trap moisture under it which could lead to bigger problems, and I'm not sure why you'd want to cover a tool meant to be outside. Maybe build it a small shed type shelter?

If shrink wrapping traps moisture, how do farmers keep their hay bales dry? See them shrink wrapped all over.

 

[farmeratheart]

The ones that are completely covered are probably haylage. By closing in the wet/semi-green hay in plastic the anaerobic environment of a silo is approximated. Round balers that use plastic net wrap leaves the ends open so the bale can breathe.

 

[Mat4644]

If the machinery is blocked up and vented on the bottom it's safe to cover. Don't take the cover to the ground it's got to vent. Weather damage is from water and sun UV. UV reacts on paint and any plastic and exposed rubber such as seals. Water gets under guards and causes damage if exposed. Spray any unpainted surfaces with a rust preventative before covering. We also remove guards and throughout clean underneath before covering.

Zero relationship covering hay vs metal.