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Farm equipment impacts productivity and the quality of the yields produced. However, this equipment is prone to failure mainly due to the fundamental nature of its work. Therefore, ailing farm machinery can have adverse effects in the long run, including loss of profits and productivity.

For this reason, it is crucial to adopt appropriate measures to care for these types of machinery to save money and extend their life cycle. Keep reading to identify some of the best practices that have a long-term value to your equipment.

Use Manuals to Learn About Farm Equipment Maintenance

One of the best ways to get started with proper equipment maintenance is by reading the owner’s manuals. Even though you have had similar machines in the past, the equipment may be from a different manufacturer, which operates differently. In this case, it is advisable to use the manual to learn the type of maintenance recommended by the manufacturer.

After learning through these manuals, you can operate the equipment to better understand the machine’s operations and carry out operation training to ensure you are well-versed with the equipment and any developments you did not previously know. Having outdated skills will limit your equipment’s functionality and performance.

Keep your operation manual to revisit in future in case of a failure. In addition, you can visit New Holland Agriculture shop manuals to help maintain engines, farming systems, spreaders, tractors, combines, sprayers, balers and harvesters.

Also, it would be best to schedule an inspection from a qualified mechanic to ensure the machine is in good shape. This is important, especially for engines and other parts beyond your ability.

The mechanic may help carry out the maintenance needed to keep the machine in its best state. You can also enroll in an operational education course to acquire advanced knowledge about farm machinery.

Train Your Operators

Your equipment operators may damage farm equipment due to a lack of information on maintenance. Therefore, there is a need to educate these operators on effective maintenance practices. In addition, with the continuous change and advancements, heavy machines keep evolving, which require new skill sets for their maintenance.

Training your operators will often help them acquire knowledge on achieving maximum machine performance while addressing any maintenance needs. Additionally, ensure every operator is aware of their role in maintaining machines and equipment. This enhances the adoption of preventive measures to ensure that the equipment is in working condition.

It would be best to adopt and maintain a preventive maintenance program to help you anticipate change and tear and wear. In addition, learning preventive measures would allow you to take corrective actions on the equipment, increasing its performance and reliability.

This may include making inspections and replacement or modification of equipment. These measures would minimize unexpected breaks down while extending the equipment’s life.

Clean Equipment after Use

Also, check for seals in your farm equipment to ensure good condition. It will also allow you to replace filters regularly. Ensure you clean your breathers often to avoid a vacuum in the cab that sucks in contaminants.

Consider cleaning electronics that are negatively affected by pollutants. It is advisable to store large equipment sheltered and secure for protection from environmental damage and rust.

Rust is one of the most common issues for farm machinery, resulting from exposure to moist soil. Rust on inner components and motors may affect the machine’s efficiency and integrity, resulting in expensive repairs. Storing them may help protect the machinery from harsh environments present during wet seasons.

You may also consider covering them in paint or wax to protect them from rust and keep them looking great. Lastly, you may spray them with anti-rusting spray to increase lifespan.

Develop a Maintenance Schedule

It would be best to develop a maintenance schedule for every piece of farm equipment and track every maintenance activity. Keep in mind that the heavy equipment requires frequent maintenance than the regular ones. In this case, ensure you grease and lubricate to extend the lifespan of your equipment.

Lubrication is considered one of the important ways to enhance equipment maintenance. However, it is best to consult with your product’s manufacturer since different components require specific oils. When you do not find problems on your own, contact your manufacturer for diagnosis. This will help analyse these oils and parts, which helps to pinpoint the specific issues.

Also, consider documenting the machine’s service history to keep records of the last services to help you know when the next maintenance is scheduled. During the recording, consider writing down the date, type of service done, what components were replaced and when the next maintenance is needed.

For heavy machines, you can establish a maintenance checklist to help track what components have been serviced and the ones that need maintenance. This practice can help you know when to replace fluids, filters and machine components.

Assess For Wear

Heavy farm equipment is prone to degradation from high temperatures, vibration, friction and shock. Therefore, it would be best to assess for wear to avoid further damage, which may need repair. Often problems with the equipment’s operation are also due to its age and use.

Vibrations occur when gears and belts are not in alignment. Contrary, the machine may have shocks from poor operations and accidents. Also, worn parts, excessive friction, use of machinery and inadequate lubrication may cause high temperatures.

Dry and cracked seals, twisted belts and loose bolts may result from age. After identifying these parts, ensure you address the problems before the damage increases.

Conclusion

Farm equipment needs to be maintained and repaired often to enhance productivity. While these equipment and machinery are prone to damage, it is crucial to conduct inspections to help identify the areas needing repairs.

Getting a good source of information about the repair and maintenance of your farm equipment is also a vital success ingredient.

Farm machinery repairs may also help cut costs associated with replacing this equipment. They also help in increasing the machine’s lifespan. Hopefully, this article has provided insights into how you can maintain your farm’s machinery and equipment.