Equipment

“Make hay while the sun shines.” This phrase is the hay producer’s version of “carpe diem” or “seize the day,” but without proper preseason maintenance, the opportunity to seize a hay day can be cut short without notice. We want every hay producer to enter the field with confidence, so our team of experts have come together to create a guide for your preseason maintenance needs.

As our operation has grown in size and complexity, so has the necessity to become more organized and efficient regarding repairs and maintenance of existing and new facilities and equipment. Along with learning new skills and practicing old ones, we find ourselves trying harder to keep track of the tools needed for these day-to-day tasks.

Five or six years ago, I added a 140-horse four-wheel-drive loader tractor to my hay processing and handling lineup.

Well, let’s face it; if you’re repairing the twine disc or twine holder, then you probably have hay ready to bale … yesterday. The good news is: If you take a little time to learn how some of these parts work, then the next time you’re up the proverbial creek, at least you’ll have a paddle of knowledge.

Merle Rabenberg left his home farm in southwest Minnesota in 1982, the same day he began dreaming of the day he would return.

With spring just a few weeks away, preparing your machines for work is one of the most important steps you can take today to ensure your success. This is prime time to check your equipment and make any necessary repairs to avoid downtime during your busy season.