Pre-Season Dryer Checklist
By: Roger Slaughter and Tom Miller, Grain Handling Equipment Sales
You know how frustrating it is to have a dryer break down in the heat of harvest. While all malfunctions can’t be stopped, a great deal can be prevented with a pre-season dryer check. Getting maintenance done in the summer can help keep you running when it’s go-time this fall.
This summer, it is more important than ever to check your dryer early. Not only does it give us time to visit the requested grain sites, but we may also need extended time to get parts ordered. We are bracing for the supply and shipping issues to continue, so the sooner we know your dryer part needs, the better. You can also order parts online here.
Cleaning
Clean any debris or foreign materials out of the control box and fan. If you have a portable GSI or Sukup dryer, the metering rolls need to be cleaned out, as plugged grain columns can overheat and lead to a fire. There are cleanout doors for easy access to the metering rolls. For sites with a Shivvers dryer, the transfer augers should be cleaned out for optimal performance. Be sure the electrical power is shut-off before entering the dryer.
Gearbox
Take a look at the oil level in the gearbox and lubricate as needed.
Electrical Power/Control Panel
Turn on the electrical power supply to the dryer and check that the control panel and any other electronics are operating correctly.
Fan
Make sure the fan turns on and watch for any unusual vibration. This could indicate a cracked or out-of-balance blade.
Heater
Check that the heater runs and is burning blue. If the flame is yellow, the heater is not burning efficiently, which will use more gas and ultimately cost you more money. Try cleaning the burning ring, and if the yellow color remains, the burning ring will need to be replaced.
Conveying Equipment
In addition to checking that the grain moves in and out of the dryer effectively, bearings may also need to be lubricated.
Your dryer model may have some other specific areas to check, so we also encourage you to complete the comprehensive checklist in the user manual. If you have any questions or see areas of concern while going through your pre-season dryer checklist, give us a call. We are happy to come out and take a look.
We know your time is valued too. Don’t forget you can also order dryer and bin parts online through ShopStutsmans.com. Use the button below for easy access to our online bin and dryer parts store!