Combine harvesters are a common fixture in a large number of agricultural farms. Thanks to their multi-purpose nature, combine harvesters are often a pricey investment for a large number of farmers.
As such, farmers who intend to invest in their first combine harvester need to ensure that they choose the best harvester for maximum productivity when the harvest season finally kicks in. Discussed in this article are three factors that a farmer should remember before choosing one harvester over the others.
The Height Of The Harvester
Height is often not the first thing that comes into a farmer's mind when shopping for a combine harvester, because it often seems like an inconsequential feature of the harvester. However, it is an important factor for consideration.
One of the potential risks associated with using combine harvesters is that parts of the harvester could easily get into contact with overhead power lines running through the farm. This would be a threat to the safety of persons trusted to operate the harvester.
Thus, it is important for farmers to ensure that the height of their preferred harvester is lower than the height of the lowest-lying overhead power line across the farm area. This will help to eliminate chances of contact between overhead power lines and the combine harvester.
When determining the most appropriate height for a combine harvester, farmers should remember to include the height of extensions and accessories that will be used with the harvester. Examples of these extensions and accessories include grain tank extensions, radio aerials and unloading spouts.
The Availability Of Spare Parts
The availability of harvester spare parts is also an important factor for farmers to consider before an acquisition is made. In a large number of cases, time is a limited resource during the harvest season.
A farmer needs to be sure that OEM spare parts for their chosen harvester will be readily available in the event that there's need for replacement of parts mid-way through the harvest. Lack of spare parts or delays in receiving these parts (e.g. if the parts have to be shipped from overseas) could easily translate to huge farm losses as a result of downtime occasioned by the wearing out and/or failure of mechanical parts in a combined harvester.
Comfort
Comfort is probably the last thing that a farmer will think of when shopping for a harvester. However, it is an important factor considering the amount of time that a farmer will spend in the harvester cabin during harvest season.
Examples of "comfort features" to look for include comfortable and adjustable seats in the cabin area as well as an entertainment station (e.g. stereo surround systems).
Talk to an agricultural equipment and supplies company for more information on combine harvesters and tractors to fit your needs.
Share31 May 2016
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