Maintaining Your Dairy Equipment

Today more than ever it is increasingly more difficult to keep the dairy operational. I would suggest two things to every dairyman and dairywoman. Number one....do the maintenance. This is so very important. Just like your car, your equipment needs to be properly maintained. A good dealership will let you know what the maintenance schedule for your particular equipment should be. Many times the farm can do a portion of their own maintenance. This will help cut cost. Many times a dairy equipment dealship is more than happy to work with you to help you to do some of your own maintenance. They may even be willing to assist you with putting together a schedule. Some of the maintenance you may want your dealer to perform. Be very careful that maintenance is done properly.
The second thing I would suggest is to keep your equipment running for as long as possible. Your dealer has no control over items being obsoleted. He or she can assist you with finding new parts from other dealerships or used good condition parts from another dairy. Every dealer wants to sell new equipment, however they also want to see your business succeed. Now keep in mind that there is a limit to how long you can use your equipment. This depends on the number of cows (goats or sheep) that you are milking and how well your equipment is maintained. Equipment age should not be considered in years alone. It should also be considered in milking time, abuse by the workers and maintenance done to units. Changing a hose once a year or changing inflations every six weeks does not constitute good maintenance. If you purchase a product from one of the larger companies and you are unable to get parts within two to three years...DON'T BUY FROM THEM AGAIN. Many dealers sell more than one line. You don't have to give up your dealer. Have them install a good quality used parlor that you can get parts for. Ask about knock off parts. A good dealer knows how to work for you.
OK. Enought of my ranting and raving. If you really can't find parts for your equipment you can contact me at suzanne@dairytrain.com. I specialize in finding hard to find part. Remember, do the maintenance and your equipment will have a longer life.
Suzanne