Heavy-duty farm equipment requires regular maintenance and repairs to retain its functionality. Maintaining farm equipment requires specific diagnostic tools for farm equipment, such as scanners, code readers, and adapters. Here are seven steps in diagnosing issues in your farm equipment:
1. Read the Manufacturer’s Manual
Read your equipment’s manufacturer’s manual for guidance on diagnostic procedures and maintenance requirements. A manufacturer’s manual often contains maintenance schedules for the equipment, guiding you on which services are needed and when. It may also have information on troubleshooting different parts of the equipment for quick repairs. Some manuals have guidelines on how to use specific diagnostic tools for farm equipment.
2. Check the Engine
Check all the engine’s compartments and covers to identify installation issues or breakages hindering optimal performance. The engine compartments’ fuel and air filters should be free from blockages compromising their filtering capabilities. If your farm equipment’s engine is hotter than usual, it could be overheating due to the reduced volume of the coolant. Check the level and viscosity of the coolant to determine whether the overheating is being caused by other engine issues, such as excessive friction. An electronic diagnostic tool will be able to identify fault codes and recommend potential repair solutions.
3. Inspect Electrical Components
Troubleshoot electrical faults in your farm equipment by switching the front and rear lights on or off. Failure to light indicates a dead battery or faulty wires and cables. If the battery drains faster than expected, its cells could require repair or replacement. Inspect all the wiring systems that transmit power from the battery to the engine and the gear systems for any rust or poor insulation that could be causing poor energy transmission.
4. Check Fuel Efficiency
A sudden spike in fuel consumption could indicate a problem with the fuel system of your farm equipment. If this happens, check the fuel pressure. Low pressure could cause a loss of power, leading to higher fuel consumption. Inspect the pipes leading to the fuel tank for any blockages or leaks that may be slowing the entry of sufficient fuel into the engine and causing high fuel consumption.
5. Conduct a Fluid Inspection
Check your equipment’s fluids, such as engine oil and coolant, to make sure they are at the appropriate level. The fluids’ volume should always be at the manufacturer’s recommended level to reduce friction that causes premature wear and tear. Overly viscous fluids can fail to reach the equipment’s engine, gear, and brake systems, leading to inefficiency or complete failure. Fluids with too low viscosity may run through the components without properly lubricating them. Check your manual to identify which type of oil to use in your farm equipment.
6. Inspect Brake Systems
You can identify faulty brakes by physically driving the farm equipment and applying the brakes to check their performance. If the brakes don’t work optimally, inspect the brake fluid levels to confirm they’re at the necessary level for stopping the equipment effectively. Since brakes are prone to wear and tear, conduct a visual examination of the system for any mechanical damages that could hinder effective braking.
7. Check Wheels and Suspension
Examine the wheels and suspension to identify superficial and severe damage. A visual inspection can reveal rim damage, worn-out tire rubber, and broken suspension. Suspension issues may be identified when equipment is not level or is pulling to one side while driving. Check your tires for even wear, sufficient tread, and appropriate air pressure. Wheels that lose pressure faster than usual could signal a puncture or a damaged valve.
Use the Best Diagnostic Tools for Farm Equipment
Following all the steps in diagnosing issues in your farm equipment can help you fix them promptly, maintain efficiency, and avoid major breakdowns. Good diagnostic tools will make your work easier by providing clear readings and repair suggestions. These tools can be handheld portable tools or laptops with more significant scanning technology. Contact a diagnostic tool supplier today to learn more about simplifying the process of identifying and solving issues with your farm equipment.
