The agricultural machinery care, including tractors, is essential to ensure productivity and profitability in the field. Equipment of this type is no longer an option, but something essential to keep up with the demand and make the work worthwhile. For the investment to pay off, they have to function properly without creating excessive maintenance expenses.
7 agricultural machinery care tips
Knowing this, we have separated some good practices that, at first sight, may even seem basic, but the rural producer (farmer) does not always realize that they are essential. You will understand why each of these precautions is important and learn about the benefits of adopting these routines. Let´s get to it, shall we?
1 – Read the instruction manual
Even though you already know how a machine works, consulting the instruction manual is important. Some practices that you believe to be correct may not be recommended, and this can lead to problems. This document also indicates the correct time to make the revisions and also provides specifications on pressure, oil and temperature.
So, read the manual carefully, not to be caught by surprise with any warning from the manufacturer about misuse in case of need for repair. Remember that, despite being resistant, agricultural machines are as prone to failure and wear and tear as any other mechanical device. Ah! And don’t forget to keep the manual close at hand for any queries.
2 – Train machine operators
If other people also operate the machine besides you, don’t assume they know how to use it correctly. Applying the knowledge acquired by reading the manual, guide all users on the operating procedures and checks, including why these people will contribute to the effective care of agricultural machinery.
3 – Have a usage report
To plan revisions and know what kind of maintenance is needed from the usage history, organize a report. It is interesting to include how and when the machine was used, for how long, what the weather was like — even if there was any sudden change in the weather — as well as any perceived abnormalities. Here, a good tip is to have the help and guidance of your trusted mechanic to keep everything recorded!
4 – Clean correctly and frequently
Cleaning is one of the cares with agricultural machinery that is not always taken seriously as it should. Often, only the outside receives attention. The truth is that changing filters, oil level and pressure , and cleaning the injection nozzles (at least every thousand hours of use) are essential. The cleaning of the front mask, straps, axles and lashing are other items that need to be cleaned and checked according to the guidelines in the manual — don’t forget that you can also consult your mechanic for cleaning and maintenance tips!
5 – Be aware of abnormalities
You know your equipment like no one else. So, in case of noise, of a different operation than usual, or in the presence of smoke, vibrations or indications on the panel, discontinue use and seek a specialized service for maintenance.
Also, for components that need frequent replacement and that do not require a lot of skill to change, it is good to have stock on the property to speed up this repair and not lose productivity.
6 – Perform preventive maintenance
We have already sang this song here, but it is worth reinforcing: do the maintenance according to the hours and conditions of use and the determinations of the manual. Even if it gives the impression that everything is ok, it’s good to make sure that it really doesn’t need any repairs than to spend more on a corrective fix. This also avoids interrupting jobs in the face of an unscheduled stop.
7 – Demand the use of quality parts for repair
The use of parts without guaranteed origin compromises all the care taken with agricultural machines that we list here. It is not a rule to specifically purchase the original ones from the manufacturer, but the choice of brand must be judicious because the proper functioning and operation within the manufacturer’s specifications depends on this.
RIO offers valve guides, cylinder liners, nozzle sleeves, tappets and much more: all to guarantee the longevity of the equipment and ensure the robustness characteristic of this technology. So, count on us and follow our tips that you won’t have a malfunction! Your day to day will be more productive and peaceful. And if you have any questions about what we’re talking about here, get in touch with us or leave your comment in the space below!
