How to maintain a Farm Power Tiller?
Power tiller is a multi-utility, multi-function compact vehicle designed for rotary tilling and other minor farm work. These machines come with multiple attachments like a plough, sprayer unit, seed cum fertilizer drill, cage wheel etc. They are also cheaper than a regular tractor and have a lower maintenance cost. Due to their compact size, multi-utility, enormous work capability, low maintenance cost and low pricing, they are prefered by marginal farmers with small landholding.
If maintained well, these powerful machines can last longer and perform to their full potential. Below are some helpful maintenance tips for the owners of a power tiller. Read on.
Lubrication Management
Lubricants such as engine oil, Coolants, Gear oil, Transmission oil, and chaincase oil play a vital role in the functioning of the tiller. Due to heavy usage and a harsh working environment, the tiller consumes/uses more oil. Therefore, oil levels need frequent monitoring.
- Engine Oil: The engine oil level needs to be checked daily. Use the dipstick and make sure that oil is above the minimum level. Always choose the best engine oil for your tiller. Doing so will keep your engine up and running for longer.
- Coolant: Keep checking the coolant every day and ensure it is never below the minimum level. If the coolant level drops below the minimum, add the coolant water by mixing 3 parts of water and 1 part of OEM recommended coolant concentrate. Change coolant every 6 months or after completion of a harvest season.
- Gear oil and rotary chaincase oil: While the gear oil keeps the transmission smooth, the rotary chaincase oil ensures a smooth rotation of the joints. Like other lubricants, these oils also need a daily check and regular change.
- Grease: Apart from the oil, there are moving parts and joints, like the rotary cup, that require greasing. Regularly clean and grease them as per the company recommendation.
Note: For recommended oil grade and oil change interval, refer to the owner’s manual.
Clean the filters
- Oil filters: When it comes to maintenance, oil filter change is often neglected by the vehicle owner. When the oil filter remains unchanged, it gets worn out. As a result, the contaminates that get collected in it escape back to the engine. Make sure you clean or change these filters regularly.
- Fuel filters: Cleaning and changing fuel filters will prevent dust and large contamination particles present in the fuel from entering the fuel tank.
- Air cleaner bowl – Air cleaner supplies purified air to the engine by absorbing contaminants present in the air. The dust-heavy environment of the farms, especially during dryland operations, leads to quick deterioration of these filters. Therefore, regular cleaning and change is a must.
Note: Change these filters as per the recommended usage hours in the owner’s manual.
Check Fan belt Tension:
Due to day-long use, the tension of the fan belt reduces. This reduced tension causes the machine to work with reduced efficiency. Inspect the fan belt tension every day by pressing the middle of the belt. If the tension falls below the ideal level, e.g. 10-12 mm, then adjust it by tightening the nut holding the fan belt.
Check Tyre
Ensure that the tyre pressure for the field operation is set as per the recommended PSI. Inspect the tyre pressure daily and fill it if needed. Additionally, check for any wear and tear or damage.
Tighten bolts
The constant use and engine’s vibration is a common cause for bolt loosening. Inspect this everyday post-use and tighten them if necessary.
Farm vehicles are an important and indivisible part of farming activities. Their performance directly affects the output. Regular cleaning, maintenance and servicing of these vehicles will keep your cost down and profits up.