Cblm On Using Farm Tools And Equipment

AGRICULTURAL CROPS PRODUCTION (NC III)

Module No: 8 Using Farm Tools and Equipment Learner’s Manual

TABLE OF CONTENTS Page Introduction How to use this module Expected Outcome Pre Assessment Lesson 1: Select and use of farm tools Definition of Technical Terms Lesson Information 1.0 Self Check 1.0 Activity 1.0 Lesson 2: Select and Operate Farm Equipment Definition of Technical Terms Lesson Information 2.0 Self Check 2.0 Activity 2.0 Lesson 3: Perform Preventive Maintenance Definition of Technical Terms Lesson Information 3.0 Self Check 3.0 Activity 3.0 Post Assessment Generalization References Acknowledgement

1 2 3 3 6 6 7 14 15 17 17 19 27 28 30 30 31 39 39 40 42 42 44

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INTRODUCTION Welcome to the course of Agricultural Crop Production. This Module covers the knowledge, skills, and attitude in Using FarmTools and Equipment in accordance to industry standard which leads you to National Certificate Level III (NCIII). You need to complete and pass the self-check of this module before you can perform higher level of competencies. Practices in this module will help you select and use farm tools, select and operate farm equipment and perform preventive maintenance. Desirable values and attitude must also be taken into consideration. This module consists of three (3) learning outcomes. Each learning outcome contains learning activities for both knowledge and skills, supported with lesson information, activities, and self-checks, gathered from different sources. Before you perform the exercises, read the lesson information and activity page that follows. Then answer the self-check for confirmation that you are equipped with the knowledge necessary to perform the skills of the particular learning outcome.

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How Do You Use This Module? To get the most from this Module, you need to do the following: 1. This Module contains several Lessons. 2. Begin by reading and understanding the Learning Outcome/s. These would tell you what you should know and be able to do at the end of this Module. 3. Find out what you already know by taking the Pre Assessment then check your score. If you get 99 to 100% of the items correctly, you may proceed to the next module. This means that you need not go through the Lessons because you already know what it is about. If you failed to get 99 to 100% correctly, go through the Lessons and review especially those items which you failed to get. 4. Do the required Learning Activities. They begin with one or more Information. The Lesson Information contains important notes or basic information that you need to know. After reading the Lesson Information, test yourself on how much you learned by means of the Self-Check. Do not hesitate to go back to the Lesson Information when you do not get all test items correctly. This will ensure your mastery of basic information. 5. It is not enough that you acquire content or information. You must be able to demonstrate what you learned by doing what the Activity directs you to do. In other words, you must be able to apply what you have learned in real life. 6. How well did you perform? Accomplish the Scoring Rubrics. Each Lesson also provides you with references and definition of technical terms for your guide. They can be of great help. Use them fully.

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EXPECTED OUTCOMES: At the end of this Module, you should be able to:

LO1. Select and use farm tools LO2. Select and operate farm equipment LO3. Perform preventive maintenance

Pre Assessment

What Do You Already Know?

Let us determine how much you already know about using farm tools and equipment. Take this test. A. Read and analyze the statement carefully. Choose the best answer and write the letter only in your answer sheet. 1. These are objects that are usually light and are used without the help of animals or machines. a. Farm implements b. Equipment c. Hand tools d. Hand trowel 2. What tool is used for removing trash or soil, digging canals or ditches and mixing soil media? a. Spade b. Shovel c. Spading fork d. Hand fork

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3. Which of the following tool is used for digging canals, breaking hard topsoil and for digging up stones and tree stumps? a. Pick-mattock b. Crowbar c. Spade d. Grab-hoe 4. What tool is used for loosening the soil around the growing plants and putting small amount of manure in the soil? a. Pick-mattock b. Crowbar c. Hand trowel d. Spade 5. Which tool is used for cleaning the ground and leveling the topsoil.. a. Pick-mattock b. Rake c. Spade d. Hand trowel 6. Which of the following does NOT belong to the group? a. Hand tractor b. Rake c. Water pump d. Four wheel tractor 7. A powered tool machine used in farming. a. Equipment b. Hand Tractor c. Hand tools d. Farm implements 8. It is used to pull disc plow and disc harrow in preparing a much bigger area of land. a. Equipment b. Hand Tractor c. Hand tools d. Farm implements 9. Which of the following is to restore something broken or damaged to good condition? a. Repair b. Storing 4

c. Cleaning d. Preventive maintenance 10. It is an activity or operation done to prevent malfunction of tools and equipment and it is done to prolong the useful life of tools and equipment. a. Repair b. Cleaning c. Storing d. Preventive maintenance B. Complete the paragraph A pre-operational check of the tractor will assure you that it is in safe operating condition. Check the 1.__________________, 2. ______________, 3.______________, 4.________________, and 5.___________________ for day or night time operation. C. Identifify the following: __________1.Are areas where two or more parts move together with at least one part moving in a circle. __________2.Are hazards involving two components moving toward each other. __________3.Hazards involve mechanisms designed to take in crops or other materials for processing. __________4.Hazards are associated with tractors and self-propelled and pull-type machinery. __________5.Hazards pertain to any exposed rotating component.

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Lesson 1: Select and use of farm tools

  

Identify appropriate farm tools according to requirement/use. Check and report the faults and defects of farm tools in accordance with farm procedures. Safely use appropriate tools and equipment according to job requirements and manufacturers conditions.

Definition of Technical Terms

Hand tools – objects that are usually light and are used without the help of animals and machines. Repair – to restore something broken or damaged to good condition. Prepare – to take the necessary action to put something into a state where it is fit for use or for a particular event or purpose.

What Do You Need To Know? Read Lesson Information 1.0.3very well then find out how much you can remember and how much you learned by doing Self-Check 1.0.

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Lesson Information 1.0

Identify Farm Tools and Their Uses Hand Tools Hand tools are objects usually light and are used without the help of animals or machines. They are being used in performing farm activities which involve small areas like school garden and home garden. Examples are: 1. Bolo is used for cutting of grasses and weeds, loosening and pulverizing the soil, digging small holes for planting and posts, and breaking the topsoil in preparing garden plots if no other tools are available.

2. Crowbar is used for digging big holes and for digging out big stones and stumps.

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3. Pick-mattock is used for digging canals, breaking hard topsoil and for digging up stones and tree stumps.

4. Grab-hoe is used for breaking hard Topsoil,pulverizing soil and hilling up.

5. Spade is used for removing trash or soil, digging canals or ditches and mixing soil media.

6. Shovel is used in removing trash, digging loose soil, moving soil from one place to another and for mixing soil media.

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7. Rake is used for cleaning the ground and leveling the topsoil.

8. Spading fork is used for loosening the soil, digging out root crops and turning over the materials in a compost heap.

9. Light hoe is used for loosening and leveling soil and digging out furrows for planting.

10. Hand trowel is used for loosening the soil around the growing plants and putting small amount of manure in the soil.

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11. Hand cultivator is used for cultivating the garden plot by loosening the soil and removing young weeds around the plant.

12. Hand fork cultivation.

is

for

inter

row

13. Pruning shears is for cutting branches of planting materials and unnecessary branches of plants.

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Axe is for cutting bigger size post.

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15. Knife is for cutting planting materials and for performing other operations in horticulture.

16. Water pail - for hauling water, manure and fertilizers.

17.Sprinklers – for watering seedlings and young plants.

18. Wheel barrow – for hauling trash, manures, fertilizers, planting materials and other equipment.

19. Sprayers – it is for spraying insecticides, foliar fertilizers, fungicides and herbicides.

Trigger sprayer

Pressure sprayer

Knapsack sprayer 11

20. Sickle and Scythe - a hand-held agricultural tool with a variously curved blade typically used for cutting weeds.

Sickle

Scythe

21. Post hole digger - used for digging holes from small to moderately sized hole especially in orchard production.

22. Dibbler or Dibble - a tool to help you dig a hole in the soil to plant your seeds or starter plants.

Care of Garden Tools Garden tools are gardener’s best friends. They help makehis work easier and faster. It is impossible for him to work with his bare hands alone. For this reason, the gardener should take good care of his tools. He should avoid losing them. He should likewise protect them from breakage.careful use and proper safekeeping of garden tools will add many more years to their life.

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Do’s and don’ts with regards to use of tools:     

Choose the right tool that will serve your purpose. Carry your tools properly Use tools as working aids, not as toys. Clean the tools after using them. Always observe safety precautions in handling tools.

Routine check-up and hand tool maintenance   

All tools require regular maintenance to work properly. Clean all tools after each use with water and treat with penetrating oil to prevent rust. Tools that require a sharp edge must be sharpened regularly as sharp tools are safer and most efficient to use.  Various sharpening tools are used depending upon the tool. It is important to become familiar with the methods relevant to the tools you use.  Check tools regularly for loose nuts and screws and tighten as needed.  Sand rough handles and repair cracks as soon as they are noticed to prevent injury.  Store tools in a dry area.

Reporting Problems and defective tools: Broken or damaged problems tools can cause injury or accidents in the workplace. The quicker problems are reported, the quicker the tool can be fixed or replaced and the less risk or injury. Broken or wornout tools must not be used but put in a place for it is to be repaired. This will prevent injury and enhance the life of tool. Persons with proper training and skill should repair tools. Preventive maintenance like fastening loose nuts or shafts will greatly reduce the need for larger-scale repairs. Importance of routine maintenance Tools have always been indespensable services but tools also give to uncountable damages when used improperly.

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Tips on routine maintenance: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.

Use the correct tool for the job. Keep tools in good condition. Cutting tools should be sharpened if it needs sharpening. Remove plug and store tools after use. Wedges and punches should be free from “mushroom heads”. Use and maintain power tools acording to operator’s manual. Make sure that power tools are properly grounded or are double insulated. 8. Power tools shoud be unplug before changing blades or servicing or repairing. 9. Guards and shield should be kept in place. 10. Keep power tools locked up to prevent unauthorized use. If you have questions, ask your teacher for assistance.

How much did you learn?

Self-Check 1.0

Read and analyze the statement carefully. Choose the CORRECT answer and write the letter only in your answer sheet. 1. Which of a. b. b. c.

the following is used for cutting bigger size post? Knife Axe Pruning shears Bolo

2. These are objects that are usually light and are used without the help of animals or machines. a. Hand tools b. Hand fork c. Hand trowel d. Implements

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3. What tool is used for removing trash or soil, digging canals or ditches and mixing soil media? a. Shovel b. Spading fork c. Spade d. Sprinkler 4. It is used for cultivating the garden plot by loosening the soil and removing young weeds around the plant. a. Hand fork b. Hand trowel c. Hand cultivator d. Spade 5. Which of the following is used for watering seedlings and young plants? a. Sprayer b. Water pail c. Trigger sprayer d. Sprinkler

Activity1.0 SELECT AND USE FARM TOOLS Conduct a practical test in the farm shop. Please proceed to the farm shop and identify, classify or sort the tools, farm implements and farm equipment according to use by filling in the table below. Use pad paper for your answers. Classification of Tools

Name

Uses

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7 8. 9. 10. 15

Rubric Score Card for the identification of tools/implements and equipment Name ___________________________ Yr. & Sec. _______________________ Activities

Weight

Score

Date ___________________

Points score)

(weight

x

Mastery of the identity 40% of the tools/implements and equipment Mastery of the uses of 60% each tool, implement and equipment TOTAL POINTS EARNED LEGEND: Points Earned 16 – 20 11 -15 6 - 10 1 -5

-

Descriptive Rating Outstanding Very Satisfactory Satisfactory Needs Enrichment

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Lesson 2: Select and Operate Farm Equipment equipme  Identify appropriate farm equipment.  Read carefully instructional manual of the farm tools and equipment prior to operation.  Conduct pre-operation check-up in line with manufacturers manual.  Identify and report faults in farm equipment in line with farm procedures.  Use farm equipment according to its function.  Follow safety procedures.

Definition of Technical Terms

Equipment – powered tool machine used in farming. Farm implements – accessories pulled by animals or mounted to machineries(hand tractor, tractor) which are usually used in the preparation of wide landto make the work easier. Peril- exposure to risk. A source of possible or imagined harm. Guard- a protective cover on machine and equipment used to prevent injury. Loader - a bucket loader attachment, usually hydraulically operated and front-mounted. Light weight models are used for scooping and moving loose materials, such as manure, gravel, snow, etc. Heavier weight models can be used for digging. Loader is also used to refer to an industrial machine equipped with a front bucket. Overrunning Clutch - a safety mechanism which allows a heavy implement, such as a brush hog to "spin down" without energizing the tractor drivetrain. It is essential for the safe operation of older tractors such as Ford 2N, 8N or 9N.

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Pony Engine - a small engine which is used to start a larger one. PTO (Power Take-Off) -an extension of the drive train that allows power to be mechanically transferred to other machinery or implements via a removable drive shaft with spline couplings. PTOs can be located in the rear, middle (belly), front and/or, rarely, side of the tractor. Remotes–a hydraulic inlet/outlet pairs at different locations on the tractor for connecting hydraulically operated implements. Ripper–these are commonly used on bulldozers for clearing land with large, heavy hooks behind the tractor for ripping roots or brush. ROPS (Roll Over Protective Structure) - a roll bar or similar device to help protect the driver in case the machine tips over. Scarifier -an implement for breaking up the top surface of soil. Self-Energizing Brakes - brakes which use the tractor's momentum to increase braking force. SMVEmblem - the ubiquitous orange triangle symbol, which denotes a Slow Moving Vehicle. It is required on the rear of farm machinery being driven on public roadways as a caution to traffic approaching from the rear. Suburban Tractor - a lawn or garden tractor. Sulky - a small, one- or two-wheeled platform towed by a walk-behind machine on which the operator can stand or sit.

What Do You Need To Know?

Read Lesson Information 2.0 very well then find out how much you can remember and how much you learned by doing Self-Check2.0.

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Lesson Information 2.0

IDENTIFY APPROPRIATE FARM EQUIPMENT AND THEIR USES Equipment These are machineries used in horticultural operations, especially in vegetable production. They are used in land preparation and in transporting farm inputs and products. This equipment needs a highly skilled operator to use. Examples are: 1.Hand tractor- is used to pull a plow and harrow in preparing a wide area of land.

2. Four wheel tractor- is usedto pull the disc plow and disc harrow in preparing a wider area of land.

3. Water pumps - are used to draw irrigation water from a source.

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4. ower Sprayer ideal for spraying agricultural chemicals and fertilizers on farms, greenhouses and orchards.

5. Earth Auger - used to drill soil by making a hole.

6. Grass Cutter – used to trim large area of grass/lawn

7. Rice Harvester – used to harvest palay

8. Rice Thresher – used to separate rice grain from its hay.

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9. RiceTransplanting Machine - a specialized transplanter fitted to transplant rice seedlings onto paddy field.

10. Plows - these are farm implements used in agricultural crop production operations either pulled by a working animal or a tractor. The plows are specifically used for tilling large areas, making furrows and inter row cultivation.

Native plow

Disc plow

11. Harrows – these are native wooden harrow made up of wood with a metal tooth and pulled by a carabao while the disc harrow is a metal mounted to a tractor. Harrows are used for tilling and pulverizing the soil.

Native wooden harrow

Disc harrow

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12. Rotavator - an implement mounted to a tractor used for tilling and pulverizing the soil.

13. Seed Drill - this is pulled by a tractor. It is used to plant grains and vegetable seeds. This can make different kinds of ditches that the seeds go in depending on what kind of soil there is. 14. Sprayer - this is used if the farmer needs to spray their crops for anything [like bugs]. It has a great cab or a place where the driver sits.

15. Combine - this is used to harvest all kinds of crops. It does more than one thing like pick and clean the crop. It has a sieve in it to get rid of the crop junk.

PRE-OPERATIONAND CHECK-UP OF FARM EQUIPMENTS

Check Tractor Before Operating: A pre-operational check of the tractor will assure you that it is in safe operating condition. Check the tires for proper inflation and defects, windows for visibility, seat position, seat belts, brakes for adjustment, steering response, rear view mirrors, slow-moving vehicle emblem, reflectors, and running lights for day or night time operation. 22

Safety Check: Walk around the tractor, and check any attached implement,and obstacles that may be under or near the tractor. This includes stones, boards, children's toys etc. Make sure there are no bystanders; remember this is a working area. Check that the wheels are free, not frozen or stuck in the ground. If the rear wheels are frozen to the ground, then the tractor may flip backwards around the axle when power is applied. Check for any loose parts or objects on the tractor such as tools on the platforms or around brakes and other controls. Service Walk around: Walk around the tractor a second time to check the tractor itself. This time look at the tires for wear and inflation, the power takeoff shaft for shielding and guarding (rotate the shield to make sure it moves freely), the hitch for proper hitch pin and safety clip. Pay particular attention to the ground under the tractor for any signs of liquid leaks such as oil, coolant or fuel. Check the oil: Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean and check the oil level. If oil is required, remember to wipe off the filler cap before you remove it to avoid dirt falling into the engine. Use a clean funnel and clean the top of the oil can to prevent rust or other foreign objects going in with the oil. Check the radiator: Slowly remove the red cap and check the liquid level. Check the air pre-cleaner and air cleaner: Remove and shake out any dirt. Check the fuel level: Fill if necessary, but it should have been filled at the end of the last day the tractor was used. Check the fire extinguisher: Your tractor should have a fire extinguisher in case of fire during operation or refueling. Make sure it is charged and easily accessible. Any noted defects should be corrected immediately. These can affect performance and your safety!

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Batteries: handle with care! Occasionally it may be necessary to handle, adjust or change the battery on your tractor. Batteries contain sulfuric acid which can cause considerable harm if it comes into contact with your skin. They can also produce mixtures of hydrogen gas and oxygen which can explode if contacted with heat or sparks. Remember these safety points: 1. Do the work or adjustments in an area free of sparks and heat sources. Don't smoke while working near the battery. Make sure the area is well ventilated. 2. Always wear personal protective equipment, covering the eyes and hands. A full face shield will offer the most protection. 3. Never work leaning directly over the battery. 4. Always disconnect the ground cable first and identify the cables as positive or negative so that you don't re-attach them interchangeably. 5. Make sure that you clean the terminals and cable connections before re-attaching them. Make sure the new battery is secured with the hold-down assembly provided. 6. While installing the battery, make sure that the terminals don't come into contact with metal parts on the engine or tractor body. 7. Make sure that you connect the ground cable last to prevent sparks and tighten the connections! Hydraulic systems and safety Working with or on hydraulic equipment can be dangerous. Some of the hazards cannot even be seen readily. Hydraulic systems are under tremendous pressure and this is where the unseen danger lies. Before servicing hydraulic systems: 1. Shut off the engine powering the hydraulic pump. 2. Lower the implement to the ground. 3. Relieve pressure by moving the hydraulic control lever back and forth. 4. If working around or under a raised implement, make sure that it is blocked or supported by something other than the cylinder itself. 24

5. Use a piece of cardboard or wood to check for leaks in hoses and fittings. Even a small amount of pressurized hydraulic fluid can be injected through the skin and cause severe health problems. Seek medical attention immediately if hydraulic fluid penetrates your skin. 6. Be cautious when releasing blocks or transport locks on equipment. If a cylinder has leaked and lost pressure, the implement may fall to the ground as the locks are released. Safety Practices During Operation of Farm Equipment MACHINERY AND TOOL SAFETY Machines: They save valuable time and are essential to agricultural productivity. They can ever also impose danger to the worker who operates them Safe machinery operation primarily depends on how you operate the machine. Machines are inanimate objects; they cannot think, reason, or adapt to meet the needs of people. The responsibility for machinery safety rests with you. Just as we are told to drive defensively when operating an automobile. Machine operators should always take precautions. When examining machinery and workshop areas take note of the common hazards associated with the equipment and tools on farms. Train your workers to use extra caution when working with identified hazard areas of equipment. Common Hazards Associated with Machinery: 1. Pinch points- are areas where two or more parts move together with at least one part moving in a circle. The areas where drive belts contact pulleys or sprockets mesh with chains are prime examples of pinch points. 2. Crush points- are hazards involving two components moving toward each other. Examples of crush-point hazards are the raising and lowering equipment with a three-point hitch, components that are moved by hydraulic cylinders and the areas between the tractor and machinery when hitching or turning.

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3. Wrap (entanglement) point -hazards pertain to any exposed rotating component. Wrap-point hazards include any type of rotating shaft or driveline. PTO drivelines are prime examples of wrapping or entanglement hazards. 4. Pull-in point =hazards involve mechanisms designed to take in crops or other materials for processing. They include combine headers, windrow pickups, forage chopper headers, and grinders. 5. Shear and cutting point= hazards are areas where two parts move across one another or one moves across a stationary object. Windrower cutter bars and grain augers are examples of cutting and shear points. 6. Thrown objects Metal, glass, wire, sticks, or other materials may be picked up by a machine and propelled with extreme force. Rotary mowers are good examples of machines capable of throwing objects. 7. Burn point= hazards are associated with tractors and selfpropelled and pull-type machinery. Hot mufflers, engine blocks, pipes, and hot fluids are examples of burn points. 8. Stored energy hazards =are present in pressurized systems such as hydraulics, compressed air, and springs. The sudden or unexpected pressurization or depressurization of these systems can result in crushing and other types of accidents, depending on the use of the system. High-pressure leaks are also forms of stored energy. General Safety Precaution: Develop safe procedures for working around all machinery; begin by putting the following guidelines in place:  Read and follow all safety procedures in the manufacturer’s manual.  Turn off the machine and take the key before making any repairs or adjustments.  Block raised hydraulic equipment. Do not depend on hydraulic systems to keep the implement or attachment in a raised position.  Ensure adequate working space for the job  Provide and use appropriate personal protective equipment. 26

 

Check to ensure sufficient lighting and ventilation Keep walkways and exits clear Maintain required firefighting and first aid equipment in the work area.

 Ensure fuel, compressed air, electrical or other services are safely installed and maintained.  Modify machinery considered hazardous or remove it from service if it cannot be made safe to operate.  Ensure guarding is safely replaced after maintenance jobs are completed.  Have guards designed and fitted for older machinery and newly purchased machinery

If you have questions, ask your teacher for assistance.

How much did you learn?

Self-Check 2.0

A. Complete the paragraph A pre-operational check of the tractor will assure you that it is in safe operating condition. Check the 1.__________________, 2. ______________, 3.______________, 4.________________, and 5.___________________ for day or night time operation. B. True or False When working with battery 1. Do the work in an area free of sparks and heat sources. Smoke while working near the battery. 2. Always wear personal protective equipment, covering the eyes and hands. A full face shield will offer the most protection. 3. Work leaning directly over the battery. 27

4. Always disconnect the ground cable first and identify the cables as positive and negative so that you don't re-attach them interchangeably. 5. Make sure that you clean the terminals and cable connections before re-attaching them.

Activity 2.0 SELECT AND OPERATE FARM EQUIPMENT Any of the following equipment or farm equipment suggested by the trainer is acceptable in performing this operation.  Hand Tractor  Four Wheel Tractor  Water Pump Instructions: 1. Read the operation manual of the selected equipment carefully. 2. Identify the parts and operation controls and explain its functions in the presence of the expert/trainer. 3. Conduct inspection using the pre-operation check up manual. 4. Make the inspection report and indicate the actions to be taken. 5. Correct the equipment troublesas instructed by the expert/trainer. 6. Ask permission from the authorized personnel to operate the equipment. Scoring Rubrics While performing the activity, it is important that you to assess your performance following the criteria below: Score Criteria 20 15 10 5 Instructional manual of farm equipment are carefully read prior to operation. Appropriate farm equipment and operation controls are identified and the functions are explained. 28

Pre-operation check-up is conducted in line with manufacturers’ manual Faults in farm equipment and facilities are identified and reported in line with farm procedures Farm equipment is safely operated according to its function Interpretation of Scores: 16 – 20 – Excellent output 11 – 15 – Very good 6 – 10 – Fair output 5 and below – Poor outpu

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Lesson 3: Perform Preventive

Maintenance equipme   

Clean tools and equipment immediately after use in line with farm procedures. Perform routine check-up and maintenance. Store tools and equipment in designated areas in line with farm procedures.

Definition of Technical Terms Preventive maintenance - an activity or operation done to prevent malfunction of tools and equipment and it is done to prolong the useful life of tools and equipment. Hydraulics- a system of pressurized oil, which provides power for raising and lowering the 3PH and which can be used to operate attached or towed implements having hydraulic pistons and cylinders. "Live" hydraulics maintains oil pressure to the system even when the clutch is disengaged. Hydrostatic transmission - a hydraulic transmission, which varies the tractor's forward or reverse speed within a gear range based on pressure applied to a lever or pedal. Also allows instant transition between forward and reverse direction without the use of a clutch.

What Do You Need To Know?

Read Lesson Information 3.0 very well then find out how much you can remember and how much you have learned by doing Self-Check 3.0.

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Lesson Information3.0

PERFORM PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE

Machinery Maintenance Repairs and maintenance of farm machinery, equipment and associated workshop tasks are necessary to ensure optimum machinery performance and efficiency.However, these tasks are among the most frequent causes of farm injuries. Numerous accidents occur because operators attempt to make repairs or adjustments while a machine is running. Others have been injured or killed by being crushed when equipment fell down while they were working underneath . Take the time to identify potential hazards and develop safe procedures for workshop tasks, paying particular attention to the training and supervision of young and inexperienced workers.

Tractor Maintenance Regular maintenance of farm tractors can prevent hazardous incidents in the field and in the workshop; however, it is well documented that individuals can be killed or seriously injured while performing simple maintenance tasks and repairs of farm tractors.  Check that the right equipment is available for the work being completed.  Ensure workers are experienced and trained to do the task.  Ensure workers are knowledgeable of safety procedures.  Ensure workers are aware of the dangers in performing maintenance work in the field.  Prevent accidental start-up. General Precautions The following general precautions can help reduce the risk of accidents during maintenance procedures.  Routinely check brakes, clutches and drive, according to the manual 31

Ensure steering, exhaust system and brakes are well in top conditioned  Stop the motor before refueling, servicing or greasing.  Never remove or replace belts while pulleys are under power  Keep steps and working platforms free of grease and oil to avoid slips and falls If the engine overheats, allow time for it to cool off before removing the radiator cap. 

POINTS TO CONSIDER IN EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE OPERATION

The Owner's Manual should be your first source of information 1. Study your owner's manual. The manufacturer has specific instructions for basic care of equipment, and they have the expertise to give you the best advice on how to do it.

Here are some items you should find in the Owner's Manual: 

Maintenance Schedule. This will tell you the intervals for routine maintenance, including chassis lubrication, engine, transmission, and hydraulic oil change, filter changes, and other maintenance works.

Tractor hydraulic oil has different viscosities and additives, so check the label before you buy.



Specifications. This table shows the type of fluid for the transmission, hydraulic system, brakes, and engine coolant, as well as their capacities. Tire inflation, bolt torques, and other 32

 

information may be found under specifications or other sections of the manual. Location of lubricant points (grease fittings), fluid check dipsticks or sight glasses, and instructions on cleaning air and fuel filters. Basic operating instructions and other information specific to your tractor. Some tools required for normal tractor maintenance

1. Obtain tools. Tractor maintenance requires numerous wrenches and other tools in larger sizes than for automobile maintenance, so plan to buy or borrow the tools you need. Protect the tractor from the elements.

2. Protect the tractor from the environmental elements. Because most smaller farm (or garden) tractors do not have a cabin to protect the seat, instrument panel, and metal components, it is a good idea to store it in a shed or garage. If you don’t have this, cover the seat and the exhaust system.

3. Check fluids regularly. Tractor usage is measured in hours, not miles, so the amount of use may be deceptive, and leaking components may cause failure of expensive parts. Refer to the owner's manual to determine how each fluid is checked.

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A typical tractor engine oil dipstick a. Check the engine oil.

Transmission filler cap/dipstick assembly, located on the top of the gearbox b. Check the transmission fluid. • Check the coolant in the radiator. • Check the hydraulic oil. • Check the battery electrolytes 4. Check tire inflation. Because of the shape, low inflation is not always obvious. Rear tires normally have between 12 and 20 PSI inflation pressure, the front tires may have up to 32 PSI. The back tires on farm tractors should be filled with ballast, especially if you are pulling an implement where maximum traction is required. Usually this ballast is water with an antifreeze solution added.View of the fan belt and upper radiator hose with the tractor hood up 5. Keep an eye on belts and hoses. If your tractor is equipped with a hydraulic system, it has high pressure hoses and/or tubing, and failure of this fluid conduit can cause component (hydraulic pump) failure, loss of steering, or other problems. If a hose (or belt) appears damaged, worn, or cracked, replace it. If fittings 34

or connections are leaking, tighten them or replace the seals.Tractors have independent rear wheel brakes to assist in turning. Note two pedals. 6. Keep the brake linkages lubricated, and make sure the brakes are adjusted equally. Many tractors have mechanical brakes, operated by a linkage and cam system instead of a master/slave fluid system. These brakes are located on the rear axles, and work independently, so that they may be used to steer the tractor in tight corners or to reverse the direction of travel. 7. Watch the gauges. Keep an eye on the temperature, oil pressure, and the tachometer. 

 

The temperature gauge should be marked with a normal operating range, but any time the indicator says the temperature is over 220 degrees F, which means the engine is running hot. If equipped with a diesel engine, the oil pressure should be between 40 and 60 PSI. The tachometer tells how many revolutions per minute the crankshaft is turning. Diesel engines are designed to operate at lower RPM and higher torque than gasoline engines, and "over revving" your engine, or operating it at maximum RPMs is not recommended.

8. Check the filters regularly. Most systems on tractors are equipped with filters to protect against dirt, water, or other contaminants that could cause failure of the components. See-through Engine fuel filter to allow you to see water in the fuel filter bowl.



Check the fuel filter for accumulated water. Most diesel engines have a water separating filter, since diesel fuel attracts moisture.Turbocharged diesels use tremendous amounts of air, which can cause filters to clog quickly in dusty conditions.

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Check the air filter often. Tractors often operate in very dusty conditions, and in some cases, the filters must be cleaned daily or weekly. Clean the air filter with a shop vacuum or with compressed air, never by washing it. Replace the air filter when it cannot be cleaned satisfactorily, or if the filter is damaged.Raise the hood to check the radiator for accumulated debris.

9. Check the radiator screen. Tractors are often operated in conditions where debris may accumulate on the radiator, so they usually have a front screen or grill to prevent plant matter, insects, or pollen from clogging the radiator.Not all of your tractor's grease fittings are this easy to locate.

10. Lubricate your tractor. Tractors have many moving parts that require greasing than other automobiles. If you see a part that moves, look for a grease fitting. Use a grease cartridge pressure gun, clean the fitting, attach the hose, and pump grease until the associated seal begins to expand, or grease is seen oozing out. 

Older tractors require specific lubricants in the gear boxes. Often, the hydraulic system and the transaxle share fluid, and using the wrong fluid can cause serious damage.

11. Do not overload your tractor. If you are using your tractor for cultivation or mowing, it should have a recommended size attachment for the job you are doing. As an 36

example, do not pull an eight foot mower with a 35 horsepower tractor.

12. Keep your tractor clean This will help you to spot damaged components and leaks, and see if trash or debris is causing problems.

TIPS 

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Keep a detailed service record. Scheduled service intervals are usually found in the owner's manual, but many tractors do not get enough use to reach the hour requirements for oil changes, etc., so these services may be done on an annual basis instead. When lubricating grease fittings, it is best practice to lubricate in both the loaded and unloaded positions, as the grease will only press into the unloaded space in either position. Greasing in both positions will better provide a complete lubrication.The battery in this tractor has little protection so it should be checked often It pays to keep an eye on your battery. Some tractors are not cranked and used very often, and the battery can lose its charge while the machine is not used. Check the electrolyte and charge the battery every month or so if the tractor has not been used. If you do expect to let the tractor sit idle for a long period, plan on starting the engine and letting it run long enough to completely warm up every month or so.Engine oil drain plug located underneath the crankcase Learn the location of filler plugs, internal filters, and drain plugs on your machine. Older tractors did not always come equipped with convenient dipsticks for checking transaxle or 37

hydraulic fluids. Often they will have a filler plug located on the side of a housing indicating that the oil should be filled up to that level. 

Always allow tractors, especially diesel engine tractors, to warm up when cranked after a long period of non-use. Never over rev the engine when it is first started. Hydraulic lifters, hydraulic pumps, and oil pumps may drain down while the tractor is not in use, and damage can occur to these components8 lug bolts secure this rear tractor tire

 Check lug nuts. The lug nuts on the large back wheels are prone to work loose if not torque properly. The rear wheel has a tapered hub, so reversing the wheel brings the tire in toward the tractor's center  Learn to reverse the wheels if you use the tractor for field operations that require different wheel width settings. Some equipment, such as bottom plows or mowers, work better with a narrow wheel width, where for planting and cultivating crops you may need the wheels set out to the widest width.

If you have questions, ask your teacher for assistance.

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How much did you learn?

Self-Check 3.0

ANSWER THE FOLLOWING: 1. What is an equipment? (1 point) 2. Give the specific uses and functions of the following equipment: A. Hand tractor (3 points) B. Four wheel tractor (3 points) C. Water pump (3 points)

Activity3.0 PERFORM PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE Creating Forms for Monitoring the preventive Maintenance Materials needed:   

Ball pen Bond paper Farm tools and equipment

Instructions After learning about the preventive maintenance of different farm equipment, you will make an inventory indicating the conditions of all the tools and equipment. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Make a list of all equipment. Create a maintenance checklist of all the tools and equipment reflecting its regular and periodic cleaning. Create an inspection checklist reflecting its condition. Create an inspection summary checklist stating the conditions and the action to be done. Compile the sheets in one folder and submit to your teacher. 39

Scoring Rubrics Criteria

20

Score 15 10

5

Completeness Well organized Neatness Updated

Post Assessment

How much have you Learned? A.Match Column A with B, then write the letter of your answer on your answer sheet. ______1. Sprinkler

A. used for spraying insecticides, foliar fertilizers, fungicides and herbicides.

______2. Knife

B. used for hauling water, manure and fertilizers C. used for watering seedlings D. used for cutting planting materials E. used for leveling the top soil F. used for removing trash, digging loose soil, moving soil from one place to another and for mixing soil media G. used for cutting bigger

______3. Hand Fork ______4. Bolo ______5. Rake ______6. Shovel

______7. Pruning Shear

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size post H. used for cutting branches of planting materials and unnecessary branches of plants I. used for inter row cultivation J. used for cutting tall grasses and weeds and chopping branches oftrees

______8. Sprayer

______9. Pail ______10. Axe

B. True or False 1. Using a clean funnel and cleaning the top of the oil can prevent rust in the farm machineries. 2. Use a piece of plastic to check the leaks in hoses and fittings in the hydraulic systems. 3. all machineries have its own specific instructions for maintenance operations. 4. In procuring tools, plan or buy tools that is really needed and fitted to the work. 5. The rear tires of farm machineries normally have 18-20 PSI inflation process. ANSWER THE FOLLOWING: 1. What is an equipment? (1 point) 2. Give the specific uses and functions of the following equipment: a. Hand tractor (2 points) b. Four wheel tractor (2 points)

_________________________________ Refer to the Answer Key. What is your score?

Congratulations! You did a great job! Rest and relax a while then move on to the next module. Good luck!

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GENERALIZATION: This module gave opportunity to the students to develop their skills in

Using Farm Tools and Equipment (Lesson 8)according to standard operating procedures, techniques and knowledge of AGRICULTURAL CROP PRODUCTION. This prepares them to move on to the next important skills for development…

Performing Estimation Calculation (Lesson 9). the

and

Basic

References  

Agricultural Arts for Secondary Agricultural Arts (T.H.E., SEDP, NSEC series) by Ramon G. Asuncion et.al.  Farm Mechanics Textbook by Phipps, McColly, Scranton, & Cook p.393 – 689  Growing Vegetables by Tony Biggs p.6 – 7  Growing Rich, Tasty Veggies in Harmony with Nature, vol. 1 by Jef Van Haunte-LydsQuileste Van Haunte p.117-120  http://www.antiquefarmtools.info  http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/pdfs/01-111b  http://www.ebc.com.au  http://library.thinkquest.org/TQ0312380/machine.htm  http://www.agmachine.com/xmmd43d.htm  CBLM Horticulture  http://www.wikihow.com/Maintain-a-Tractor  Asuncion,RamonG,et.al,Agricultural Arts  Phipps, McColly, Scranton, & Cook, Mechanics Textbook  Tony Biggs, Growing Vegetables  Jef Van Haunte-LydsQuileste, Growing Rich, Tasty Veggies in Harmony with Nature 42

      

http://www.antiquefarmtools.info http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/pdfs/01-111b http://www.ebc.com.au http://library.thinkquest.org/TQ0312380/machine.htm http://www.agmachine.com/xmmd43d.htm http://library.thinkquest.org/TQ0312380/machine.htm http://www.agmachine.com/xmmd43d.htm

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