The agricultural sector relies heavily on machinery, especially during the busy months. It is very important to know how to properly maintain agricultural machinery to keep farms running smoothly. If the machinery malfunctions, it could have a devastating effect on production.
An appropriately maintained machine will last longer, function more efficiently and have a reduced risk of malfunctioning. You can read our guide to maintaining agricultural machinery if you work with this equipment and wish to know how to maintain it.
Use the correct fuel for your machinery
Agricultural machines are usually powered by red diesel, a gas oil specifically designed for agricultural, industrial, and commercial purposes. Despite the many benefits of burning red diesel, recent tax changes to red diesel have come into effect as of 1st April 2022. Therefore, you should see if you are affected by this change.
Regular cleaning
Working on agricultural equipment can be messy, but if your machines are dirty, it’s harder to spot damage. Your machines should have their oil changed regularly to prevent dust and debris build-up. To remove dirt and mud from machinery’s exterior bodywork, it should be cleaned with soapy water and a high-pressure hose.
Lubricate your machinery
Agricultural machinery should have lubricants applied to all moving parts. The use of lubricants extends the life of machinery and parts by reducing friction. A good quality lubricant should be used, and dirt and messes found on the machine should always be cleaned before adding new lubricant. We can supply you with a full range of lubricating oils, hydraulic, transmission oils and many more.
Spot signs of wear and tear
You will be able to spot signs of wear and tear easier if you are familiar with your machines. Depending on the machinery, you may see signs of damage such as extreme vibration, unusual sounds, friction, and overheating. You should always get any issues looked at sooner rather than later to avoid a major breakdown and expensive repairs.
Check your fuel tank
Maintaining your fuel tanks will ensure you have clean and efficient fuel when you need it in the agricultural industry. A professional cleaning of fuel tanks is recommended every one or two years to remove sludge and other contaminants.
Regularly checking your fuel tank for water is also recommended. If water enters your tank, it can accelerate fuel degradation, which can damage your machinery. The water in a tank also encourages the growth of algae and bacteria, which can cause a buildup of sludge that contaminates fuel and clogs filters.
As you can see, maintaining your farm machinery properly will help them stay in great shape for a long time, and they will be much more reliable than before.
At Quad Fuels, we offer a full line of agricultural fuels, greases, lubricants, and additives. Simply contact us for additional information and to get started.