Pre-Harvest Technology Check with Vantage Australia

As harvest time approaches, it’s crucial to thoroughly inspect your equipment before heading to the field. Make sure your precision technology is up-to-date and functioning properly to avoid any setbacks. Going through this checklist beforehand will not only save you time and reduce stress but also ensure that the data you collect is accurate and reliable.

Here is a checklist to help you prepare for a successful harvest time:

Step 1: Display and Receiver

Your display and receiver are the heartbeat of your equipment. Begin by checking that all displays, receivers and connectivity devices have been moved over to the combine(s) or tractors you plan to use this season.

Step 2: Check your steering Hardware

Greasing all spindles and kingpins to keep everything running smoothly.
Inspect linkages to ensure they are tight and properly aligned.
Verify alignment: Check that the camber, caster, and toe of the steering system are within spec, as unalignment will cause the system to pull to one side, resulting in uneven and excessive wear on your tires and potential steering errors.
Inspect tires: Ensure that they are in a good condition.
For hydraulic steering systems: Check hydraulic oil levels and inspect hoses for leaks.
For assisted steering systems: Confirm that the anti-rotation brackets are secure and in good condition.

Step 3: Do a Test Run

After checking all physical components of the steering system, perform a test run. Ensure your fleet of harvest equipment is configured in your display and verify that AutoSync™ is enabled to sync guidance lines from the planter to your harvest equipment.

Step 4: Reactivate Correction Service Subscriptions

If you have a correction service subscription that needs reactivating for harvest, do it beforehand.

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GNSS Correction Services

Step 5: Do a Data Cleanup

Now that the inspection of steering hardware, and testing that it works is done do a data cleanup of your guidance lines. If you have a couple of guidance lines in your system that you are not certain of, it is best to rather get rid of them.

Step 6: Calibrate for accurate yield

The first step in collecting accurate data is to teach the system what the zero point is, because the paddles can wear and change shape over time, this affects how much volume the sensor reads. Also decide whether you’ll keep or delete the load data from the previous season for calibrating this season’s yield, consider factors such if you are harvesting a different crop, and if the yield potential is similar than the last crop.

Get Started Early

The earlier you run through this checklist, the better. Aim to start at least two to four weeks before your planned harvest date. This gives you ample time to order parts or make significant repairs if needed.

Additionally, addressing these tasks ahead of time allows you to train others on your team to operate and troubleshoot the systems. This way, if someone else needs to step in, you can trust they’ll handle the job effectively. It’s far easier to train others when you’re not under the pressure of imminent harvest.

For more information, please contact us at 1800 482 682.

Steering & Hardware

PTx Trimble’s wide selection of vehicle and implement steering systems ensures you get the solution that steers your equipment with maximum precision.

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Displays

Explore our range of industry-leading Android^™-based guidance displays easily help you accurately monitor and map field information in real time.

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Harvest Playlist

Make the most of your time in the cab and save our Vantage Harvest playlist to listen to.