As planting season approaches, ensuring your machinery is in peak condition is essential for a successful and efficient operation. Downtime during planting can be costly, so taking time to prepare your equipment now will save you headaches later.
At Excel Agriculture, we know how important it is to get it right the first time. Here are five tips to help you prepare your machinery and hit the ground running.
Inspect and Clean Your Equipment
Start with a thorough inspection of your machinery. Look for wear and tear, rust, and damaged components that may affect performance. Cleaning the equipment not only extends its life but also makes it easier to spot potential issues. Pay special attention to:
- Seed boxes and hoppers
- Hydraulic lines and connections
- Disc openers and coulters
Pro Tip: Use compressed air or a pressure washer for hard-to-reach areas, but avoid high-pressure water on sensitive components like electrical connections.
Check and Replace Worn Parts
Worn parts can lead to uneven planting and decreased efficiency. Focus on key components such as:
- Bearings and bushings
- Belts and chains
- Seed meters and nozzles
Replacing these parts before planting starts ensures smooth operation and minimises downtime in the field. Always keep spare parts on hand for quick repairs.
Calibrate Your Machinery
Proper calibration is crucial for achieving accurate seed placement and consistent yields. Double-check the settings on your row crop planter or seeder to match your seed type, planting depth, and row spacing. Calibrating ensures optimal seed-to-soil contact and reduces seed waste.
Things to calibrate:
- Seed meters and distribution systems
- Fertiliser application rates
- Depth control settings
Test Electronics and Software
Modern farm equipment often includes GPS guidance, monitoring systems, and electronic controls. Make sure your software is up to date and all electronics are functioning properly.
- Test GPS accuracy and signal strength.
- Verify sensors and displays.
- Check for error codes and address any issues promptly.
Pro Tip: Back up your field maps and settings before making changes to avoid losing critical data.
Lubricate and Tighten Everything
Proper lubrication reduces friction and prevents premature wear. Check all moving parts and apply grease as needed. Also, tighten bolts, nuts, and connections to prevent loosening during operation.
Focus Areas:
- Drive chains and sprockets
- Pivot points and bearings
- Hydraulic fittings
Final Thoughts
Preparing your machinery for planting season is an investment in a successful harvest. Taking the time to inspect, repair, and calibrate your equipment ensures you’ll be ready to plant efficiently and without delays.
At Excel Agriculture, we’re here to support you with innovative machinery and expert advice. If you need assistance or are considering upgrading your equipment, reach out to our team today.
