Farm Machinery is expensive and breaking down/repairing them can be just as costly. Not only the cost of the repair itself, but breakdowns affect your productivity and income through downtime.

So how do we ensure that our farming equipment doesn’t let us down at times when we need it the most?

Here are 5 top tips for avoiding unplanned maintenance to keep your farm moving:

1. STORE YOUR FUEL SAFELY

   It’s essential to ensure health and safety is a priority especially with expensive fuel tanks where oil spills can be costly to remove and pose an environmental risk.

   As you would with a boiler, your tank should have a yearly service/check to ensure that they are in compliance with the regulations. This can help prevent any future spills or problems.

   If your tank is deemed as unsafe to fill by the driver during a delivery they can refuse to fill which could set you back in time/money.

2. KEEP YOUR MACHINERY CLEAN

   It is hard to spot any general wear and tear or signs of breakdowns if your farm machinery Is not kept clean. Keeping your machinery clean will allow you to spot dangers such as oil leaks and grease build-ups more easily.

   It’s also important to maintain and clean up filters and remove any build-up.

3. MONITOR YOUR FUEL LEVELS

   It’s essential that farmers have the right fuel and a reliable source to keep their farms running as smoothly as possible.

   As you are about to start another day on the farm the last thing you need to worry about is whether or not you have enough fuel in your tank or not.

4. CHECK YOUR AIR FILTERS

   An engine’s air filter prevents small particles from getting inside and damaging internal components. Engines need clean air to function at their full potential. Without it, fuel won’t burn efficiently.

   It’s the air filters job to make sure they get plenty of clean air however, working in dirty, muddy environments often means that filters can soon block up and stop farm machinery from functioning properly.

   So, if it is clogged up you can usually unclog it by removing the filter and knocking the dirt and debris out or if it is damaged replace it.

5. HAVE YOUR OIL CHANGED REGULARLY

   Having your oil changed is one of the simpler things you can do that greatly helps prevent the need for repairs.

   Not only does it keep your engine running smoothly, but it also helps reduce the build-up of dirt of debris that occurs from constantly working in muddy areas.

   Lubricating your engine properly also helps to reduce wear and tear which minimises the risks of accidents, extends equipment life and cuts spending on new parts.