Stay Running When It Matters Most
Around here, harvest windows don't give second chances. When the combine stops, everything else does too.
The growers who finish strong aren't scrambling in October—they're dialed in before the first field. A solid pre-season inspection is one of the simplest ways to protect your time, your yield, and your bottom line.
Use this QFS checklist to go through your machine front to back—so you're fixing things now, not in the middle of a perfect day.
1. Engine & Fluids — Start With the Basics
If it doesn't run right, nothing else matters.
- Check engine oil level and condition (change if questionable)
- Inspect coolant and confirm proper protection levels
- Check hydraulic fluid for level and contamination
- Replace fuel filters if you didn't at the end of last season
- Check air system and clean or replace pre-cleaner
- Inspect hoses and clamps for leaks, cracks, or soft spots
- Verify DEF system is full and functioning (if equipped)
- Check gearbox and feederhouse oil levels
💡 Tip: Fluids are cheap. Downtime isn't.
2. Belts & Chains — Prevent Easy Breakdowns
This is where small wear turns into big headaches.
- Inspect belts for cracking, glazing, or fraying
- Check tension across all major drives
- Inspect and lubricate chains; replace any stretched sections
- Check feederhouse chain alignment, tension, and slats
- Clean out the stone trap before it becomes a problem
💡 If it looks "almost worn," it won't make it through harvest.
3. Header & Platform — Where Yield Is Made
Your header sets the pace for the entire operation.
- Inspect knives, guards, and hold-downs
- Replace worn cutting components—don't gamble here
- Check reel condition and drive systems
- Inspect auger flighting and fingers
- Adjust header tilt and float for crop conditions
- Check draper belts (if equipped) for tracking and tension
- On corn heads: inspect deck plates, chains, and snapping rolls
- Grease everything per spec
💡 Most harvest loss starts at the header—not inside the combine.
4. Threshing & Separation — Protect Your Bushels
Loss here is hard to see—and expensive.
- Inspect concaves for wear or damage
- Check rotor/cylinder for missing or worn components
- Set concave clearance for your crop ahead of time
- Inspect grates and walkers
- Check chopper blades and replace as needed
5. Cleaning System — Keep Grain Clean
Efficiency here impacts both yield and quality.
- Straighten or replace damaged sieve sections
- Inspect fan blades and confirm speed control
- Check clean grain and tailings elevator systems
- Verify tailings return is operating properly
- Clean out all leftover debris from last season
6. Grain Handling — Keep It Moving
Unloading issues cost more time than you think.
- Inspect grain tank for cracks or leftover grain
- Check auger flighting, tubes, and drive components
- Test auger swing/fold functions
- Clean and calibrate grain loss sensors
- Verify yield and moisture monitors are reading correctly
7. Electrical & Controls — Avoid Frustration
Electrical issues never happen at a convenient time.
- Test all lights (field and road)
- Inspect wiring for rodent damage or wear
- Check all cab controls and displays
- Verify GPS and auto-steer calibration
- Clean battery terminals and test charge
- Test safety shutdown systems
8. Tires, Tracks & Undercarriage — Stay Mobile
Don't overlook what keeps you moving.
- Check tire pressure and condition
- Inspect for cracks, cuts, or excessive wear
- For tracks: inspect tension and rollers
- Re-check wheel torque after initial run time
9. Cab — Get Ready for Long Days
You'll spend a lot of hours here—make it count.
- Clean out dust and debris
- Replace cab air filter if needed
- Test heat and A/C
- Inspect seat belt and safety switches
- Confirm fire extinguisher is ready
- Stock tools, fuses, and operator manual
10. Safety — No Shortcuts
Protect yourself and anyone around your operation.
- Replace missing or damaged shields
- Check SMV emblem visibility
- Verify decals are legible
- Test backup alarm
- Make sure everyone knows safety procedures
11. Run It Before You Need It
Don't wait for the field to find issues.
- Start and warm up completely
- Listen for anything unusual
- Cycle all systems
- Check for leaks under load
- Make a short test pass if possible
- Re-check fluids after the first hour
Stock the Parts That Keep You Running
Even with a perfect inspection, parts wear out. The difference is whether you're prepared.
What we recommend every customer keeps on hand:
- Knife sections and guards
- Key drive belts
- Chain links and repair sections
- Fuses and relays
- Hydraulic fittings and hose repair parts
- Grease and fluids
Why QFS Customers Stay Running
Most downtime isn't caused by major failure—it's waiting on parts.
At Quality Farm Supply, we focus on the wear parts and critical components that keep combines moving during harvest. When something goes down, you don't have time to "order it and wait."
