1 Check the PTO

All guarding and check chains need to be in place before mowing. That’s not just from a safety perspective – it’s also from a practical perspective.

Running close to the ground in long or mown grass with an exposed PTO shaft can result in a covering of grass around the shaft that will create havoc with hydraulic hoses and electrical connections.

2 Grease the mower frame

One of the most neglected grease points of any mower is where the mower bed is attached to the mower frame. This part of the machine as well as the bed need to be regularly greased. Not greasing it will lead to the pivot bushings wearing out, resulting in damage to the rest of the mower.

3 Check the oil in the gearbox

There will be a dipstick or level plug where the oil level can be checked.

Do check it for levels and oil quality. Anything other than golden clear and it needs to be changed.

A low oil level could also indicate a leak that needs attention. It is recommended to change the oil in this gearbox after the first 50 hours and thereafter every 300ha at the latest.

4 Check or tighten belts

The belt is the part of the mower that delivers the power from the tractor to the discs/drums.

One of the biggest reasons a mower fails at the start of a season is because the belts have not been tightened correctly and burn out or are perished and broken. Always check your belts before going to mow.

5 Ensure mower cover is intact

The mower cover performs an important role in containing dust and, to a certain degree, debris, as the mower goes about its business. It is the first line of defence if the mower launches an obstacle so is well worth maintaining and repairing, if damaged.

6 Ensure the mower is cutting at the correct height

Typically raising and lowering a mounted disc mower is a single-acting hydraulic ram.

Check the ram for leaks and the actual hydraulic pipe for damage.

This will ensure that the mower cuts at the correct height. Skids prevent wearing on contact with the ground.

Skids can and will wear. They need to be replaced if worn through, before any damage can be done to the mower bed.

7 Sharpen or change old/blunt blades

Blades perform a crucial task on a mower and like any knife, blunt or damaged blades are not as effective.

They also require more power to operate so consider your fuel bill if thinking of skimping on blades. Replace damaged or worn blades as necessary.

8 Check discs/drums

The discs/drums can be exposed to rock damage or wear more so than most parts of the mower so it is important to check them regularly. Also look out for oil leaks and loose top-hats if they are bolted on.

9 Check the oil level in the mower bed

Checking the oil level in the mower bed can vary greatly between different brands. Always refer to the operator’s manual before starting this task. It is important that the oil is at an acceptable level to prevent damage. It is recommended that you change the mower bed oil initially after 50 hours and then at a maximum of every 100ha thereafter.

10 Check tyres

On a trailed mower it is important to check the tire pressure regularly. A deflated or soft tire will result in a lower-quality cut and make mowing more difficult. Worn tyres will have reduced grip and are more susceptible to a puncture.

Pump or replace tyres when necessary.

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Full coverage: silage '17