In hot weather, we protect ourselves from the sun’s rays by using sun screen or looking for shade. But did you know that a feeding machine can also suffer from the heat? No matter how robust a Trioliet machine is, a feeding machine will appreciate you taking extra precautions in hot, sunny weather. Follow the tips below to extend the lifespan of your Trioliet feeding machine and prevent defects. This will save you unnecessary maintenance costs, something we all want.
1. Ensure that the knives are sharp on machines with cutting units such as the Triotrac (M),
Triomix, Gigant, silage cutter or Triomaster. A smooth, clean silage wall reduces the risk of
overheating.
2. Use sharp auger knives for an optimal mixture in the feed mixer. The better the quality of
the mixture, the higher the feed intake and the better the health of your animals.
3. Make sure that the mixing tub is properly empty at the end of the feed turn by running the
augers in the feed mixer at high speed for the last few minutes. This prevents feed residues
from being left behind. You may need to run the PTO shaft at 1000 rpm for this. Any feed
residues that remain in hot weather will get mixed in with the next feed ration make the
mixture less appetising and can already be affected by overheating, which will reduce feed
intake.
4. To avoid overheating and unappetising feed, do not leave a partial load in the mixer for a
long time.
5. Make sure that the cutting unit is well lubricated. In very hot conditions, the grease will run
off more quickly, so more frequent lubrication may be required.
6. Check the oil level in the gearboxes regularly. In hot weather, the oil temperature rises and it
flows more easily, increasing the risk of leaks. Make sure that the oil level is correct when cold.
(COLD level indication on the oil container on the machine)
7. Clean fans and radiators found on the 2 and 3 speed transmissions regularly and inspect
for leaks.
General rules
A. Do not park the machine in direct sunlight when it is not in use. The reasons for this are:
- It can be harmful for the electronics.
- The weighing system may show a small deviation.
- Attaching hydraulic hoses can be hampered by pressure build-up in the hoses.
B. Check self-propelled machinery before use for:
- Cleanliness of all coolers (intercoolers, engine coolers, hydraulic coolers)
- Water level in coolers
- Oil levels
- Repair any leaks immediately
C. Prepare smaller amounts of compound feed and distribute feeding times throughout the
day. This prevents overheating and ensures a tasty meal and good feed intake. The cows will
thank you and will show this through good milk production and animal health.
It goes with out saying that maintaining your feeding machine properly helps you avoid problems, and therefore save money, as a cattle farmer. Of course, your dealer can also help you prepare the feeding machine for summer. For this, contact your Trioliet dealer. Our Trioliet regional manager can also help you in this regard. You can find this information on our website under the heading 'Sales': https://www.trioliet.com/sales/north-america