The pre-harvesting maintenance guide

Seeing the good results of hard work is always satisfying. But, when it comes to harvesting crops, it can also be a stressful period. Having agricultural machines, such as combine harvesters, in excellent shape does provide some much-needed peace of mind for your customers.

There is no time for downtime

The goal during harvesting season is clear: a timely and efficient harvest. Can’t be hard, right? It all depends on proper pre-harvest maintenance. That’s where you can make a difference for your customers, so their harvest doesn’t feel like pushing a shopping cart with a jammed wheel.

A combine that’s in top condition gives the best chance at producing the harvesting results your customers desire. Here are a few key points to help you perform optimal pre-harvest maintenance.

Efficiency is in your hands

Thorough maintenance and timely replacement of worn parts can restore the machine’s full potential. Let’s take a closer look at the recommended procedures before harvest commences.

1) Cleaning the machine

Maintenance starts with a thorough cleaning. Cleaning ensures that performing repairs is more enjoyable when needed, and you can spot issues simultaneously. Pay extra attention to the following components when cleaning the machine:

Filters like the air filter, cabin filter, oil filter, and fuel filter either need to be cleaned or replaced.
Check the stone trap and ensure it’s empty.
Clean the threshing system and grain tank. Crop leftovers can attract rats and other vermin that may cause damage to the machine.
Makes sure all the hydraulic systems are clean and aren’t greasy because of ‘sweating’.

2) Check components for wear and tear

Some components are well-known to take a beating during harvest. It is of utmost importance to check these parts for wear and tear and replace them when necessary. The following components require thorough inspection before the harvesting season begins.

Belts are subject to a lot of wear and tear. It is advised to check them and replace those showing signs of excessive wear.

The knives (and related header parts) are crucial for a smooth harvest. Rocks and other debris can cause damage to both the knife and the attachment components underneath. Replace the damaged knives on time to keep the harvest going as planned.

Brakes are crucial for safety and performance. If they lock up it can cause fire, especially if the brake callipers don’t open properly.

The combine concave is an indispensable part of a combine harvester. It frees the seeds from the plants, and moves them away from the chaff. Make sure the bars and wires are in good condition. If this is not the case, these parts will have to be replaced.

The grain tank, and elevator require thorough checking as well. Replace the rubber plates if they are showing signs of damage. Replace and/or lubricate the chains, and check for play. Finally, check all the belts and replace them if they are worn.

The cleaning tables and sieves require regular inspection. The bars need to be in good condition and the holes need to remain their original size. It is also crucial to check the bearing and bushings of the shaking system.

3) Perform regular maintenance

Besides changing parts it is also crucial to maintain the other components to extend their lifespan. The following steps ensure the proper functioning of the systems for a harvesting season without worry.

Change hydraulic oil
Check and measure all of the sensors
Make sure all of the lights are working properly
Check tire pressures
Drive shafts and clutches must be in excellent condition to prevent harvest from coming to a halt.
Make sure all the legally required signalisation is present when the machine is driven on public roads.
Perform a cabin check and ensure the air conditioning is working as it should.

By following the steps of this pre-harvest maintenance guide, your customers can work without worry from start to finish.

In need of high-quality parts to perform this pre-harvest maintenance? You can count on TVH to deliver what you need in a flash. Simply visit MyTotalSource, place an order and you will have your order at your doorstep in no time!