Growth in both ag tractors and combine harvesters continues in the U.S., while a slowdown in harvesters in Canada brings overall unit sales slightly below 2020 north of the border, according to the latest data from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM).

Modern farm equipment has evolved as a response to farmers’ desires for increased crop yields, greater productivity and lower operating costs. With the advanced capabilities of today’s machines comes greater requirements for new solutions for customer support and innovative ways to diagnose a problem so repairs can be completed quickly and accurately.

The job isn’t over just because the temperatures drop. Harsh winter weather can have a harsh impact on your equipment, especially without the right maintenance.

Author’s note: This is not a brand endorsement, and neither Progressive Dairyman nor I are compensated (directly or implied) for any portion of this article. I simply want to bring to your attention some of the advancements in equipment presented at the National Farm Machinery Show in Louisville, Kentucky. Space requirements limit us from mentioning all new products.

I just had a virtual look inside some farmer’s toolbox and expected to see familiar things – adjustable wrenches, assorted nuts and bolts, an oily rag, pliers, pry bar, hammer, starter fluid and penetrating oil.

Variable-speed engines power almost all self-propelled vehicles and equipment. The correct engine speed, as revolutions per minute (rpm), will be the best compromise considering economy of operation, emissions, power needed (or speed needed, especially when running PTO-powered implements such as hay balers) and longevity of the engine.