Are you harvest ready? Top lubricant machinery maintenance tips

Despite the ups and downs of the recent weather, the summer harvest season is finally upon us, and is a time for British farmers and agricultural contractors to reap the rewards of their hard work. But before the combine harvesters roll, ensure your machinery is ready for long days and demanding conditions ahead. With a few simple maintenance checks, you can avoid costly breakdowns and maximise harvest efficiency.

Using high-quality lubricants extends machinery life, improves fuel economy, and protects vital components, ensuring peak performance throughout the season. The Witham Group, a leading UK lubricant manufacturer, knows a thing or two about oil and the importance of proper lubrication on all working parts of machinery. Preparation is key to avoid issues and ensure reliability in the field.

Regularly check and replace engine oil and filters, ensuring proper oil levels and a clean air filter. Witham Group’s engine oils, offer a wide range of agricultural engine oils and are approved to Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) specifications, offer high quality raw materials, are carbon neutral blended and are recommended for all types of agricultural machinery, vehicles and equipment.

Maintain optimal performance of these vital working parts by checking transmission/hydraulic fluid levels and replacing filters if needed. Inspect pipes and fittings for wear. Witham’s MD, Nigel Bottom, emphasises, “Using the correct viscosity and grade of oil in modern transmission and hydraulic systems, ensures proper operating temperatures and helps prevent overheating. We always recommend the right oil for the specific application, so make sure you are well prepared and take advice if needed.”

When inspecting your combine header for wear and tear, use a lubricant for anti-corrosion protection. During disassembly, liberally grease mechanisms and ensure you consider all the latest offerings from long lasting non-toxic, lanolin based greases to specific greases that will ensure continuous free movement of the header.

The harsh harvest environment demands proper lubrication for all pulley bearings and belt tensioners. Complex Greases, lithium or calcium are a high-performance solution for high pressure and temperature compromised situations.

Keep your drive chains operating smoothly with proper tension and lubrication. Chain Oils offer a heavy-duty, with “Anti- fling” additive, provides excellent lubrication and chain protection.

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