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Since 1949
Shipton’s Big R is locally owned and managed, influencing our efforts to stay rooted in the community that has supported us since 1949. Our commitment to our community forms the solid foundation from which we do business to this day.Throughout the year, we proudly host in-store events, sponsor local groups, contribute to local causes and of course, generously providing knowledge, expertise and exceptional customer service.
Shipton's Big R Blog
Winterizing Your Vehicle
November 29, 2021
Don't get caught off guard with pesky and preventable car troubles this winter! Whether your vehicle runs on gas or diesel, it is important to be aware of potential cold weather issues. Read on for some tips on how to keep your vehicle performing well in the winter months!
Diesel Engines
One of the most common problems faced by diesel vehicle owners in the cold months are diesel gelling and startup issues. Diesel fuel must pass through a filter to strain out any impurities and water before entering the engine. The hydrocarbon makeup of the paraffin wax found in no. 2 diesel fuel is liquid under normal conditions, but starts to solidify and bind into crystals at temperatures below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. When this happens, the fuel becomes thick and gelatinous, making it difficult to pass through the filter. Known
as the cloud point due to the white hazy appearance of the wax crystals, diesel
fuel will start to gel and solidify at 14 degrees Fahrenheit. While you can’t change
the cloud point, there are ways to prevent your filter from plugging in the
cold.
When caught off guard in particularly harsh conditions, it
can be a good idea to keep your engine idling when possible, as it will prevent
fuel from cooling and gelling.
When cold starting your diesel vehicle, check
the dipstick to see if the engine oil is fluid. If it is completely solid, attempting
to start the vehicle could damage the engine. An external heat source such as a
blow heater can help return the oil to a liquid state. It is important to keep additives and fuel
treatments on hand in your vehicle in the winter months as many anti-gels will work even if your
fuel has completely gelled. Just pour the additive into your fuel tank according to the product instructions and let it do
its job.
Diesel fuel anti-gel - This fuel additive will enhance cold temperature performance by preventing paraffin wax from clogging lines at temperatures below freezing. The chemical works to dissolve bonds in the wax and break up crystals into smaller parts, allowing them to pass through the filter smoothly. Anti-gel will also mitigate filter freeze-ups in the fuel lines due to accumulation of water, and decrease wear between metal parts through increased lubricity. Cold flow improver is generally effective down to
around zero degrees Fahrenheit. As temperatures drop below zero, along with
continuing to use a cold flow improver, you will want to gradually transition
to a mix of no. 2 diesel and no. 1, which is paraffin wax-free. If you find yourself in
temperatures below -30 degrees Fahrenheit, use straight no.1 diesel without the no. 2.
Diesel Fuel & Tank Cleaner - A fuel and tank cleaner will remove water and slime, and disperse fuel contaminants. Since diesel absorbs water and grows bacteria and algae more readily than gas, a fuel and tank cleaner can help by bonding with water particles, stopping bacterial growth, and prevent clogged filters and injectors. In addition, it stabilizes fuel for long-term storage to keep your fuel fresh. This makes it particularly ideal for vehicles or RVs that sit for much of the winter. Fuel and tank cleaner can be used quarterly or as needed.
Gas Engines
Fuel Stabilizer -
Fuel stabilizer can prevent deterioration and separation of fuel in any gas powered vehicles remaining idle for prolonged periods of time. Stabilizer will protect your vehicle's fuel system from rust, corrosion, and buildup. Using a good fuel stabilizer eliminates the inconvenient step of draining fuel tanks before storage.
Fuel Line Antifreeze - This type of fuel additive removes water from your car's fuel
system, which can cause frozen fuel lines in cold weather.
When the weather outside is below freezing and there is water in your fuel
system, that water can freeze and block your fuel lines, preventing your car
from starting. A fuel line antifreeze, largely made up of alcohol, can absorb and break up the water into small enough
droplets to allow them to combust in the engine. To prevent fuel lines from freezing in humid conditions, it is recommended that
you pour fuel line dryer such as HEET into your fuel tank every time you fill up when it is
consistently below 30 degrees, and closer to once every two to three fill-ups
in higher temperatures. It is important to note though that if your fuel already contains ethanol alcohol, there is generally no need for extra additive. Used year-round, this additive can prevent general rust and corrosion of your vehicle's fuel system.
Winter Is Coming - Snow & Ice Removal
November 18, 2021
As we get into the winter months, snow and ice removal tools can make our lives easier. Which methods are right for your home? Read on for some tips on proper snow removal and how to keep your pets safe from ice-melt chemicals while playing outdoors.
Proper Ice-Melt Placement
Anti-Icing – To prevent snow from bonding to the walkway’s
surface, apply ice-melt before precipitation begins. Treating surfaces ahead of
time will simplify the process and can help you use less product in the long
run. Anti-icing is especially important before sleet and freezing rain to
prevent ice build-up.
De-Icing – Apply ice-melt to preexisting ice and snow. While
too little will be ineffective, too much can corrode walkways and roads, and
harm vegetation. Avoiding piling product and spread the granules evenly. A
general rule of thumb is to use 2-4 oz of product per square yard.
Pet & Human Safety
Clearing snow and ice ensures that sidewalks and roads
remain safe during the cold winter months. However, these chemicals can be
harmful to hands and eyes, as well as the environment. It is important to use
ice-melt safely by wearing protective eyewear and gloves and check that you are
using the proper product for the intended surface. Pet owners should be aware
that not all forms of ice melt are safe for furry friends. Generally, a small
amount of ingestion won’t cause serious problems, but it’s important to check
that you’re using the safest ice melt possible! Ice-melt can cause topical
irritation to the paws, and chemical toxicity when ingested.
Sodium Chloride
–
One of the cheapest and easy to find options on the market, regular rock salt products tend to be some of
the least pet-safe ice melts available. Prolonged exposure can lead to skin
irritation, while ingestion can lead to gastrointestinal irritation. In rare and worst case scenarios, ingestion of larger quantities can lead to elevated blood sodium levels, known as hypernatremia.
Hypernatremia has been known to lead to poor GI health and neurological
dysfunction. Some generalized toxicity signs to look out for are lethargy,
weakness, behavioral changes, muscle twitches, and seizures. While rock salt is generally not the best option for pet owners, there are products formulated with less sodium chloride to help prevent irritation and sickness. The Near Zero Melt Down Pet Safe Ice Melt contains less sodium chloride, is 30% less corrosive to hard surfaces, and is safer for humans and pets than regular rock salt. It is still recommended to clean your pet's paws when exposed to any quantity of rock salt.
Ethylene Glycol
–
Another common type of melt is made with ethylene glycol, a
compound containing the same active ingredient as anti-freeze. Ethylene
glycol-based ice melts may be easier on your pet’s paws but are far more
dangerous when ingested, and equally toxic for humans. It is recommended that households with pets and children avoid this one or use with extreme caution!
Safer Options
–
Urea-based ice melts and calcium magnesium acetate may not be as effective in extreme temperatures and thick ice as
other options on the market, but are one of the safest for pets. It is important to note though that urea can cause damage to cat’s red blood cells in the unlikely event it is ingested in high doses, and can be harmful to vegetation. In addition, it is best to avoid urea-based melts for farm use as it can cause ammonia toxicosis in ruminant animals such as cows and goats,
interfering with the fermentation process in the animal’s digestive tracts.
It’s best not to assume that your neighbors and surrounding
businesses are using pet-safe products. To prevent chemical burns on dog paws,
it is recommended to thoroughly wash and wipe off your dog’s feet after walks. Dog
booties and paw wax can also help prevent contact with chemicals on the ground.
Pay attention to behaviors such as licking of the feet and walking gingerly as they can be signs that your pet's paws are irritated.
Getting Out the Big Guns with a Snow Blower
If ice-melt and a shovel just isn't cutting it, it may be time to invest in a snow blower! When picking out a snow blower, you’ll want to consider factors such as location, price, weather, and size to find the right fit for you.
Single Stage – A single stage snow blower will generally be
your cheapest, most compact, and basic option. Technically known as a snow thrower,
the rotating augers expel snow through a chute and away from the machine. This
type of snow blower can handle up to around 8” of snow. Because the auger makes
direct contact with the ground, it does a good job of clearing paved areas without
leaving a layer of snow behind. For this same reason, single stage snow blowers
should not be used on gravel and loose debris, as it will get caught up in the
auger. In addition, single stage snow blowers are unable to handle inclines. It’s
best to use them on flat driveways and hardscapes. Check out our single stage snow blower options now!
Two Stage – The two stage snow blower has an impeller that
forces snow up and out of the auger, into the chute, and away from the machine.
The forced air allows the machine to discharge larger amounts of snow farther
away. This type fairs better with deeper and more compact ice and snow and can
be used on an incline. Because the auger does not make direct contact with the
ground, it will leave a thin layer of snow behind, and can be used on gravel
and loose debris. The larger and heavier two stage snow blower has its drawbacks
though, being more difficult to maneuver and costlier than most single stage
machines.
Interested in finding the right snow blower for you? Check out our many snow removal options now!
No Fowl Play – Tips for Safe & Delicious Turkey Frying
November 10, 2021
As the holiday season kicks into full gear, it's about time to get out those turkey fryers and put them to delicious use! Frying turkey requires large quantities of oil so proper
safety precautions are paramount! Make sure to thoroughly read through the
instructions on your turkey fryer before getting started, and check out these pointers
on safe turkey frying below!
Check Your Fryer
Check whether your fryer is meant for indoor or outdoor use.
Using an indoor fryer outdoors might make it difficult to heat the oil to the
right temperature to properly cook the turkey. If using an indoor fryer, make sure to keep it in the kitchen away from pets and children!
Location is Key
When using an outdoor fryer, make sure to do your cooking at least 10 feet away from your
house and any potential fire hazards! It’s important to stay on a flat and non-flammable
surface to prevent any spills and accidents. A concrete surface is your best
bet, while avoiding dry grass and wooden decks! While it may be tempting to try and whether the storm on a cold autumn day for the sake of a delicious dinner, never use a turkey fryer in poor weather conditions such as
wind or precipitation. It just isn't worth the fire risk, so check the weather and plan ahead accordingly.
Preparing to Fry
To prevent spills, it's best to avoid overfilling the fryer with oil. A good way to see how much oil will be necessary is to first place the turkey in the fryer with water and mark the fill line. This can be done the day before to make sure your turkey is dry by the time it’s ready to be fried. The turkey must be fully thawed and dry, otherwise extra water will cause the oil to bubble and spill over onto the burner and create fire risk. Make sure to check the inside of the turkey and absorb any excess moisture with a paper towel. Once it's dry, you can inject the turkey with marinade for some extra flavor and juiciness. It’s best to cut the excess neck skin and the butt off the turkey before frying, as these parts tend to burn. Peanut oil is recommended for turkey frying as the high smoke point doesn't catch fire as easily. In general, look for an oil with a smoke point above 425 degrees. For great results, try the PIKNIK Turkey Frying Oil, specially formulated for frying turkey.
Monitor the Bird
Keep the burner off while lowering the turkey into the fryer,
only turning it on once the turkey is fully submerged. Never leave the turkey fryer
unattended! If your fryer doesn’t have a timer and automatic shut-off function,
monitor the oil temperature regularly to prevent overheating. It's a good idea to wear heat resistant gloves, cover your arms, and protect
your eyes from oil splatter with safety goggles.
Looking for a fryer with a hassle-free timer and automatic shut-off system? Check out the Masterbuilt 30 QT Turkey Fryer Kit!
Finishing Up
Our Community Partners
We believe actions speak louder than words which is why we have and will always support our great community with new ideas and creative solutions. Here are just a few of the organizations we proudly support.
4H
Billings Mustangs
Ducks Unlimited
FFA
Friends of NRA
Nile
Pheasants Forever
Pro Bull Riders
Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation
UBRC
Billings Chamber of Commerce
Chase Hawks Rodeo
Miss Rodeo Montana
NRA Rodeo Finals
Red Lodge RodeoSheridan County FairSheridan County Rodeo
Sheridan Wyoming Rodeo
Wrangler Team Roping
Young Life
More Resources
Yellowstone County 4H
Kids experience 4-H in every county and parish in the country—through in-school and after-school programs, school and community clubs and 4-H camps.
USDA Plants Poisonous to Livestock in the Western States
Please click on this link to learn about all of the poisonous plants that can harm your livestock.
Merck Animal Health
Merck Animal Health is dedicated to preserving and improving the health, well-being and performance of animals through science.
Nutrena Knowledge Center
Our feed isn’t just grown, it’s crafted. Real science goes into putting the nutrients animals need into each Nutrena® feed product. What’s inside the feed counts.