Performance Tips for Agricultural Swathers

The key to any successful farm is planning and care. Although harvest time is rather brief, the whole year should be spent preparing each detail of both planting and the equipment. It’s important for farmers to be aware of equipment features and maintenance procedures to ensure all healthy crops are collected in a safe and productive manner. All farmers must know these machines inside and out, as if they were an extension of their bodies. They are partners in your farming endeavors, and although it can be costly and time-consuming, no expense should be spared. The best operator of your machinery is careful and well-educated. Each person on your farm that will be handling these heavy-duty machines should be informed and trained to avoid accidents, harm and even wasted crops. Many make the mistake of rushing the job to get it done as fast as possible, but put themselves at risk in the process. Outside of simply reading the manual that came with your purchase, you must understand how each part functions and ways to protect the equipment from damage. In the end, you’ll protect this valued invest and your farm for years to come.

Owner’s Manual

Learn the operator’s manual inside and out. Study each image and learn more about the function of each part. Before you even turn on the machine, you should be aware of all aspects of the machinery. Even if you’ve owned similar products in the past, each model and upgrade changes certain aspects of the equipment. These small changes can affect the function of the machine. To protect damage and keep your operators safe, learn new equipment before its use. During this process, verify the safety stickers, as well. Follow these instructions to every detail, and replace decals when they begin to wear. They serve as a reminder and will help new farmhands to learn the machinery.

Operators

These machines should only ever be operated by trained and educated individuals. In fact, anyone not trained in the handling of these items should not be allowed near them. Responsible farm owners train the right individuals as operators and warn other hands of the operating dangers that can occur when equipment ends up in the wrong hands.

Pins and Belts

Look over every inch of your machinery before the harvest. Replace any damaged, rusted or loose pins before you begin harvesting. Anything that looks questionable can break during harvest time or hinder operation. All belts should be the same length and will need to be replaced if they’ve begun to wear. Check for tension and re-size these pieces to prevent engine seizure. Belts often shrink; it’s most important that they are the same length, rather than the original size. Lastly, make sure belts are on track.

Technicians

Select professionals trained in factories and experienced with handling the exact type of equipment on your farm. They should be confident in their skills and provide open communication with you to ensure you’re properly informed with any issues. You’ll need to know the cost upfront, as well as any other issues that may have occurred inside of the machine due to a failing part. At times a small broken or malfunctioning piece can damage other parts; all issues you’ll need to be informed of at the time of service.

About the Author: Toby B. Jackson is a contributing author. A former farmer, he spent his life on his grandfather’s farm, planning, planting and harvesting. When he retired, he handed the farm to his son. He still provides advice, including on agricultural belts for swathers to ensure the farm’s success.

Online Article Marketing Specialist.