Dan Anderson

Used Machinery

Machinery Inspections: DIY Versus A Dealership Mechanic

Many dealerships offer annual inspections of tractors, combines, planters and other big-ticket machinery. Some farmers value annual inspections. Others consider them a waste of money. Here’s a mechanic’s experience and opinion.

December 11, 2024 04:01 PM

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Dan Anderson

Used Machinery

Portable Heaters: Heat Where You Need It On the Farm

If “portable heater” brings to mind an ancient kerosene-fueled torpedo heater belching flame and acrid smoke, there’s good news. Modern portable heaters offer clean, efficient options for heating work areas on even the coldest days.

November 06, 2024 12:21 PM

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Dan Anderson

Used Machinery

Before You Put the Combine Away: Inspect These 5 Wear Points

Crops and combines have changed dramatically in the past 20 years. Higher yields and new designs necessitate more frequent checks for known issues and potential problems.

October 24, 2024 11:47 AM

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Dan Anderson

Used Machinery

See Through the Dust: How to Keep Your Combine Windows Clean

While there’s little to none scientific research on how to keep combine windows clean in dusty conditions, here are a few farmer-tested and farmer-approved methods.

October 03, 2024 04:34 PM

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Dan Anderson

Used Machinery

Farm Shop Insulation: 15 Pro Tips to Maintain a Cozy Temp

Whether you’re building or remodeling a farm shop, here’s what you need to know about fiberglass, open-cell spray foam, closed-cell spray foam and hybrid insulation options.

September 27, 2024 01:48 PM

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Dan Anderson

Used Machinery

Jump-Starting Dead Battery With Portable Jump-Pack Has Never Been Easier

Jump-pack design has changed dramatically in the past decade. It’s now possible to get lithium-ion jump-packs weighing less than 4 pounds that will start gas or diesel engines up to 8-liters.

September 23, 2024 03:09 PM

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Dan Anderson

Used Machinery

How to Use a Multimeter to Test for Voltage

For all of you who have a multimeter thrown in a drawer or toolbox but don’t know how to use it, these instructions will help in your search for missing voltage.

September 19, 2024 01:28 PM

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Dan Anderson

Used Machinery

Farm Shop Lights: 9 Tips to Create a Bright Workspace

What’s the first thing a person does when they walk into a farm shop? Turn on the lights. Here are considerations when designing and selecting lighting systems to ensure the brightest, most economical results.

September 09, 2024 01:25 PM

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Dan Anderson

Used Machinery

Can Static Electricity Spark A Combine Fire?

There’s no doubt static electricity can build up on combines. Here’s what research says about its ability to actually ignite a blaze.

September 04, 2024 03:32 PM

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Dan Anderson

Used Machinery

Timely Claims Ensure Insurance Coverage

At a minimum, notify your insurance company as soon as possible when damage occurs to your combine, even if repairs aren’t made at that time. Some insurance companies now require reports within 30 days of when the damage occurred.

August 30, 2024 02:10 PM

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Dan Anderson