Harvest Season is Here Get Your Grain Carts Ready

Aug 07, 2023

As farmers, preparing for the harvest season doesn't stop with tuning up combines. Grain carts, too, need attention, says Justin Render from Kinze Manufacturing. A few maintenance steps can avoid downtime and enhance efficiency.

Key pre-harvest checks begin with cartwheels and tracks. Tight hubs and correctly inflated tires are vital, along with aligned belts in track systems. Look out for worn driveline parts including gears, shafts, and gear boxes, and repair or replace as necessary.

Hydraulic hoses and connectors should be in good condition and leak-free. Make sure all lubrication points are greased before heading into the field.

Render also underscores the importance of grain cart safety. Check the drawbar's mounting to the tractor and the condition of bolts and safety chains.

Make sure lighting, turn signals, and flashers work correctly and ensure the slow-moving vehicle sign is visible. Lastly, keep power shaft guards in place over the rotating driveshaft.

Video: Agriculture Secretary Rollins Speaks at American Farm Bureau Federation Convention in Anaheim

One of the highlights at the 2026 American Farm Bureau Federation Convention in Anaheim, California, was an address by U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins. During her remarks, she thanked America’s farmers and ranchers and said the Trump Administration is fully aware that food security is national security.

She also acknowledged the challenging times in Farm Country with low commodity prices and high input costs and said that’s why the President stepped in to help with the recent Bridge Assistance Program.

Montana Farm Bureau Federation Executive Vice President Scott Kulbeck says that Farm Bureau members are appreciative of the help and looks forward to working with the American Farm Bureau Federation and its presence in Washington, DC to keep farmers and ranchers in business.

Secretary Rollins said the Trump Administration is also committed to helping ranchers build back America’s cattle herd while also providing more high-quality U.S. beef at the meat case for consumers.

And she also announced more assistance for specialty crop producers who only received a fraction of the $12 billion Farmer Bridge Assistance (FBA).

It’s important to note that producers who qualify for Farmer Bridge Assistance can expect the Farm Service Agency to start issuing payments in late February. For more information, farmers and ranchers are encouraged to contact their local USDA Service Center.