One of the most valuable investments a farmer makes is its farm machines. Be it land preparation, irrigation, spraying or harvesting, machinery plays a crucial role in modern agriculture. But even without all the high tech farm equipment, proper upkeep can leave your best and priciest equipment functioning below par or failing in the most inopportune moment. Farm maintenance allows you to maintain longer life in your equipment and can save you costly repairs down the road.
Clean Equipment After Every Use
By one of the most direct yet beneficial maintenance practices, always wipe machinery down once operations in the field have come to completion. If it is not addressed, residue, dust, soil and moisture clinging to components of your machine will begin to cause damage. Following your crop, clean down residue, and also scan all parts of your machinery for visual damage.
Check Engine Oil and Filters Regularly
The engine is very important for any machine used in farming. Dirty or low engine oil levels increase machine wear and inefficiency. Make sure oil is clean and the oil levels are maintained properly.
Also, remember to change the engine oil from time to time. Oil is to the engine as air to your body. The air filters should be clean. They do not let enough air to the engine when blocked thus they cause increase in fuel consumption and reduce efficiency.
Inspect Moving Parts and Fasteners
Items such as belts, chains, blades, nuts and bolts are constantly subject to stress and can begin to loosen or become worn after a period of time. Periodic maintenance checks should prevent potential problems becoming serious breakdowns and the quick replacement of loose fastenings and parts will keep equipment dependable.
Store Equipment Properly
Storing machines properly is a common mistake done by farmers. It is preferred to to store agricultural machinery in dry and covered areas whenever possible. To prevent the machine from rusting it is important to protect it from dust, sunlight and humidity to extend the life of the important components.
Conclusion
Keeping your farm machines up and running is key to ensuring productivity. Follow this maintenance tips and your farm equipment and will have years of productive life. Just as your automobile, farm machines require periodic clean-up, check of oil, examination of machine’s’ components and safe storage. Proper maintenance helps save on cost, down-time and labor, especially when it is most needed.
Read More : Essential Farm Machines That Reduce Labour Cost
