Summer is a crucial turning point in the farming calendar. It's a pause from the planting frenzy and a preparatory period for the demanding harvest season. To ensure an unhindered harvest, it's crucial to carry out timely maintenance of all farm machinery—be it the primary ones like combines, grain carts, and trucks, or the secondary equipment.
Especially significant is the upkeep of sprayers used for fungicide, foliar nutrition, and sidedress nitrogen application. As mid- to late-season spraying tasks are time-critical and have a considerable bearing on yield, maintaining sprayers in prime condition is paramount.
Here are four maintenance tasks that you should not neglect this summer:
Fluid analysis: A midcycle in-service fluid analysis can alert you to any potential wear or impending failure in your machinery. It's relatively easy and economical to extract fluid samples from the engine, hydraulic system, and transmission driveline for testing.
Tire pressure: Correct tire pressure is vital for minimizing soil compaction and maintaining long-term soil structure. The correct pressure for each piece of machinery, both loaded and unloaded, can be identified by weighing it. It's important to remember that tire pressure needs to be adjusted according to the machine's specific use.
Engine coolant check: The additives in coolant protect the engine from corrosion, electrolysis, and cylinder liner cavitation erosion, particularly when the engine is under high load. It's worth investing in a sample test strip kit to check and replace coolant levels as needed.
Air-conditioning system service: The harvest weather often calls for air conditioning. Proper air-conditioning service involves more than just replacing the belt or cabin filter. It also includes the removal of old refrigerant, boiling out moisture, and refilling with an appropriate amount of refrigerant and oil.
By taking care of these summer maintenance chores, farmers can prepare their equipment for the rigorous demands of the harvest season.
Source : wisconsinagconnection