Preseason maintenance is a necessary step to ensure equipment and tools are in optimal working condition ahead of the growing season. Proper preparation and upkeep of equipment will not only make the work more efficient but also prevent costly breakdowns and repairs.
10 essential PRESEASON MAINTENANCE tips:
- Clean and lubricate equipment: Before using any equipment, it’s important to clean it thoroughly and check for rodents and their nests. Apply lubrication to all moving parts to prevent wear and tear. Doing this will also help with the overall performance of the equipment.
- Check fluid levels: Verify that all fluids are at proper levels, including engine oil, hydraulic fluid, transmission fluid, differential fluid, and coolant. In addition, check for fluid purity and remove any water that may have condensed during storage.
- Check brakes and transmission: adjust brakes, clutches, and drives, according to the manual. Make sure they are in proper working order.
- Inspect belts, hoses, and plastic parts: Plastic and rubber may become brittle and crack in cold weather. Check all belts, hoses, and fans for signs of cracks or other damage, and replace them as necessary. Check that belts and pulleys are at the proper tension. This reduces slippage.
- Test lights and signals: Test your lights to ensure they are working properly. Check for warning lights and indicators. These warnings are indicative of a serious issue or component failure. Thoroughly inspect systems indicated by warning lights.
- Test batteries: Check the battery and charging system to make sure they are working properly. Inspect the battery for signs of corrosion. If the battery is corroded or weak, replace it before the growing season begins.
- Inspect guards and shields: Check that intake guards and shields on grain augers are secure. Be sure that all power take-off units have shields and are back in place if they were removed.
- Maintain tires: Check the tire pressure and inspect the tires and wheel barrings for any cuts or damage. Make sure the tires are properly inflated and in good condition to ensure the safe operation of your equipment.
- Adjust and calibrate: Adjust and calibrate the equipment to be certain it is functioning correctly and operating at optimal efficiency.
- Schedule routine maintenance: Plan routine maintenance tasks, such as oil changes, air filter replacements, and belt replacements, to guarantee your equipment lasts and runs smoothly and efficiently. regular maintenance can help extend the lifespan of the equipment, saving farmers time and money in the long run.
In addition to these tips, it’s also important to have a well-stocked repair kit on hand for any unexpected breakdowns. This should include items such as oil, lubricants, filters, and tools.
Conclusion
Preseason maintenance is an essential part of successful farming and is well worth the time and effort invested. By following these preseason maintenance tips, you can rest assured that your equipment is in good working order and ready to handle the demands of the growing season. And if you run into any issues, contact us, we are your locally-owned co-op and we can help with all your equipment maintenance needs.