Tips for Harvesting in Wet Weather
When faced with a wet fall, you may find yourself having to harvest your crops in less than ideal conditions. We’ve compiled some tips to help you maximize your harvest and reduce damage to your crops and land.
Rear Wheel Assist
A rear wheel assist is your best option to help get the extra traction required to get your combine through a muddy field. With your rear axle now able to help steer and power the combine, you can more easily navigate muddy fields. This increase in traction will also help your combine perform more efficiently.
- Increases fuel efficiency
- Creates additional torque for steep grades
- Extends engine life by helping it run cooler
- Reduces strain on the hydraulic system
- Decreases wear on the front tires
- Improves handling and steering
- Reduces compaction of soil
We have rear wheel assists in stock for 30 models of combines. Brands such as Case, International, John Deere, New Holland, and more!
Combine Adjustments
Your combine should be able to handle grains between 20 to 30% moisture. Once moisture levels rise above 30%, you’ll want to think about adjusting your combine.
- Operate at an appropriate speed for the crop and the conditions
- Raise the header as high as possible to minimize trash input
- Level your concave and then adjust concave clearances
- Adjust rotor/cylinder speed to minimize grain damage and maximize threshing
Crop Handling
Once harvested, you’ll want to inspect and store your crops properly.
- Use visual inspection and test weighs to determine storability
- Do not mix this year’s harvest with any carryover from the previous year
- Dry as quickly as possible
- Keep track of temperature in storage and monitor CO2 emissions
Wet grains can be dangerous, be extra vigilant with your grain bin safety procedures!
