Machinery Tools How to create a secret tool space on your combine How to store and organize tools on your combine By Dave Mowitz Dave Mowitz In 1982 Dave came to Successful Farming as a senior editor first covering agronomic topics and then machinery. He went on to serve the nation's farmers as executive editor of Successful Farming Magazine and editor of the Ageless Iron Almanac, a bimonthly publication covering the hobby of agricultural collectibles. Dave recently retired from the Successful Farming family but continues to serve the organization as a contributing editor. Successful Farming's Editorial Guidelines Published on May 31, 2024 In This Article View All In This Article Read the instructions Watch the video Photo: David Ekstrom Project Overview Working Time: 30 minutes We all know breakdowns always happen in the field furthest from the shop. So, it’s important to keep a set of tools on your combine. But who wants to lug a heavy toolbox up and down those steps? Farmer Ron Otto’s hack puts tools where they are used most - at ground level. This Winstead, Minnesota, farmer fastened hook bolts on the lower shield that swings closed over the drive belts. What You'll Need Equipment / Tools Hand wrenches Materials Hook bolts Instructions Read the instructions David Ekstrom Select hook bolts whose diameter is as close to the perforation opening on the combine panel as possible.Attach these hook bolts using washers, lock washers, and nuts.Be sure that the hook opening is slightly curved inward to prevent wrenches from coming off during harvest.When recreating Ron’s idea, we discovered not all combines have perforated shields, and the diameter of the holes on these shields can vary — so measure the opening before heading to the hardware store. Watch the video