 | Mike Davied is the owner & operator of Mikes Repair & Fabrication LLC located in Frontenac, KS. He has been repairing equipment for 40 years and has ran his own business for 20 years. For more information or to contact Mike please call 620-235-0061. |
Farm Industry
2013-03-25 16:14:55
Equipment & machinery checklist
A-First RUN to your oil supplier and get enough oil sample bottles to sample every compartment of each machine you are concerned about, also pick up enough oil & filters to service these machines, as would be necessary for the start of a season's work. As you are servicing each machine catch some of the fluid from each engine & gear box, (BE careful don't get burned, SAFETY first) label & return samples to your oil distributor, for analysis. Wait for the return of these tests. Now would be a good time to talk to the dealer OR your local mechanic about any specific concerns for your machines. Some local community colleges offer courses on specific machine repairs.
Second: Using the service manuals (or OWNERS manual) service each machine according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, also check for ANYTHING out of the ordinary (cracks in frame work, moving parts, hydraulic or gear boxes, hydraulic cylinders with leaking seals, or hoses, oil or water leaks, missing bolts, cracks in belts, or hoses on the engine, & accessories, also check out the tires, tracks, clutch, brakes, & windshield & wipers/washer, if applicable). A leaking axle seal will be easier to replace now than in May. Don't forget to service the air conditioner, cooling, fuel, & hydraulic system too.
Third: When the oil samples are returned your oil supplier will be invaluable as a resource to help map out a plan for the upkeep of these valuable resources. As always be sure you have a service plan and a service manual for each of the machines You operate for your business, whether it is a truck or a bulldozer, each one has some of the same needs & some that are unique, so reference that service manual or owner’s manual. I sometimes am told that this approach is too simple, but remember man invented these infernal machines & man will break, or fix them, as is the case every time.
Fourth: Now comes the informed decision to repair, or replace any item of rolling stock you are afraid won't make it through the rigors of your work. Contact the local representative of the manufacturer of your machine, local mechanics, neighbors, your banker, & the oil supplier, with the sample results, to find out the actual work readiness of your fleet & proceed to get ready to work
Fifth: Please remember some repair tasks ARE not user friendly, so please be careful AND ask for help before you get hurt!!!
Sixth: Some breakdowns are inevitable, that’s why manufactures have warranty periods. We only try to prepare for what we can and do the best we can with the rest. To all that ask, & to my customers and friends, have a productive & prosperous 2013!!!
