No Sizzle, Just Steak: Prep Your Agricultural Machinery for the Heat
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No Sizzle, Just Steak: Prep Your Agricultural Machinery for the Heat
As the summer heat intensifies in the Southwest and other parts of the US, you might need to ensure your agricultural machinery withstands high temperatures. Heat preparation and summer maintenance are crucial to optimizing performance and preventing breakdowns.
Here at ASCO, we seek to bless those we serve and aim to fulfill this purpose daily. This blog will provide essential guidance for preparing your agricultural machinery to weather the scorching heat of Texas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico.
Following these tips and implementing proactive measures ensures your equipment operates smoothly throughout the season. Let's delve into the details:
1. Check Your Cooling Systems
Cooling systems play a crucial role in maintaining operating temperatures. Follow these steps for proper cooling system performance:
Check coolant levels: Make sure that coolant is at the manufacturer-recommended levels. Ensure the coolant is clean and free of contaminants. Consider flushing and replacing the coolant if necessary.
Inspect radiator and hoses: Examine the radiator for any signs of damage or corrosion. Check hoses for leaks, cracks, or loose connections. Repair or replace damaged components promptly to prevent overheating.
Clean debris from the cooling system: Clear away any debris, dust, or leaves that may have accumulated on the radiator or cooling fins. This allows for better airflow and prevents obstructions.
2. While You’re At It, Check Lubrication
Proper lubrication is also critical for maintaining the efficiency and longevity of agricultural machinery, especially in high-temperature environments. Pay attention to the following:
Change fluids and lubricants: Follow the manufacturer's guidelines to change engine oil, transmission fluid, hydraulic oil, and other lubricants at recommended intervals. Use products specifically formulated for hot weather conditions.
Grease moving parts: Apply grease to pivot points, bearings, and other moving components according to the machinery's lubrication schedule. Ensure all grease fittings are functional and adequately lubricated.
3. Keep Air Filters Clean
Another determining factor in optimizing your agricultural machinery’s performance is the quality of its air filter. Clean air filters protect and ventilate the engine. Make sure to do the following:
Inspect and clean (or replace) your air filters: Dust and debris can restrict airflow and cause engine damage to your agricultural machinery. Clean or replace your air filters according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
Monitor pre-cleaner systems: If your machinery is equipped with pre-cleaner systems, ensure they function correctly. Clean or replace pre-cleaner elements as needed to maintain proper airflow.
4. Keep Tire Pressure At Optimal Level
To maintain your agricultural machinery's stability, traction, and fuel efficiency, you need to ensure appropriate tire pressure. Be sure to:
Check tire pressure regularly: Keep tires inflated to the recommended pressure levels specified by the manufacturer. Adjust your tire pressure according to load requirements and the operating environment.
Inspect tires for wear and damage: Examine your tires regularly for signs of excessive wear, cuts, or punctures. Replace worn or damaged tires promptly to prevent any blowouts and accidents.
5. Be Wary Of The Wiring
The electrical system of agricultural machinery can be susceptible to heat-related issues. Without proper heat preparation and summer maintenance, high temperatures can drastically reduce the lifespan of your equipment. To ensure electrical system reliability, you can take these steps:
Inspect wiring and connectors: Check your equipment’s wiring and connectors for signs of wear, corrosion, or loose connections. Repair or replace damaged components as necessary.
Clean battery terminals: Clean your machinery’s battery terminals and connections to prevent corrosion buildup and ensure secure connections to maintain a reliable power supply.
We understand that proper heat preparation and summer maintenance of your agricultural machinery is essential for farmers and agricultural workers like you and everyone who stands to benefit from the hard work and dedication that goes into your farm. ASCO truly understands what’s on the line for you. By applying these tips, you’ll be able to better your equipment’s performance and provide superior service to your clientele.
Are you interested in Agricultural Equipment? Let ASCO help you!
As the premier heavy equipment provider in Texas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico, ASCO delivers superior ethical service that caters to your needs.
For the latest, well-maintained fleet of agricultural machinery, trust our backhoe loaders, tractors, excavators, and other agricultural machinery to get the job done! Talk to us today to learn more.
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John Wright
VP, CIO
John Wright, Brax Wright’s son, joined ASCO in early 2013 as part of the third generation of family leadership. A proud member of the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Class of 2007, John earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Texas A&M University.
After graduation, John worked as a structural design engineer for L-3 Communications MID, specializing in C3ISR (Command, Control, Communications, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) aircraft. In 2012, John completed a Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Strategy and Entrepreneurship from Southern Methodist University.
In January 2013, John joined the family business and played a key role on the Hi-Way acquisition team. He has since taken on a variety of responsibilities. He currently oversees the IT department.
In his spare time, John enjoys weightlifting, woodworking, cooking, and reading. He met his wife, Elizabeth Boothe, at Coronado High School while competing on the Math Team. Together, they have two beautiful daughters.
Courtney Wright Vanderham
VP, Branch Manager
Courtney Vanderham, Steve Wright’s daughter, joined ASCO in 2010. She earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance from Texas Tech University in 2005 and went on to complete her MBA at West Texas A&M University in 2007 while working at ASCO. Courtney later attended Tulane University, earning a Master of Finance (MFIN) with a specialization in Energy Derivatives and Risk Management.
Following her MFIN, Courtney worked as a sales and use tax consultant for Ryan Inc., North America’s largest tax consulting firm. She returned to ASCO in 2010, where she gained experience in the accounting department in Lubbock before transitioning to Amarillo. She currently serves in an Operations Manager role
Courtney is actively involved in her community as a member of the Junior League of Amarillo, Daughters of the Republic of Texas, and the Power of the Purse committee for the Laura Bush Women’s Health Science Institute.
Courtney is married to Zachary Vanderham of Visalia, California. Together, they have two children. The family share a love for sports, the outdoors, and spending time with friends.
Charles Ellis (Chase) Key Jr.
VP, Sales Manager West TX
Paula’s son, Chase Key, joined ASCO in 2009 and was the first of the third generation to return to the family business. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering from the University of Oklahoma and later completed a Master’s degree in Management at Texas Tech University.
After graduating from the University of Oklahoma in 2006, Chase began his career with UPS as part of their engineering team. In 2009, he rejoined ASCO, gaining experience in various roles, including the service department, rental sales, and as branch manager for the Lubbock Case store. Today, Chase serves as South Area Sales Manager.
Chase is actively involved in his community as Vice Chairman of the Covenant Hospital Foundation Board and a member of the Lubbock Executive Association (LEA). An Eagle Scout, Chase fondly recalls completing a 50-mile trek in Canada, an experience that continues to inspire him. He enjoys outdoor activities such as hunting and golf.
Chase is married to Amy Collins of Stillwater, Oklahoma, and together they have three children.
Paula Wright Key
Treasurer
Bill’s daughter, Paula Wright Key, and treasurer for ASCO, is also proud to be part of the family operation. She graduated from the University of Texas at Austin in 1979 with a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in marketing. That same year, Paula married Charles Ellis Key and moved to Dallas, where Charles joined InterFirst Bank as a Vice President.
In 1988, Paula and Charles returned to Lubbock, and Paula began her career at ASCO, working in the accounting department, working with payroll and accounts receivable.
Paula has been deeply involved in her community, serving on various boards, including the Texas Tech Foundation Board, Hospice of Lubbock Board, the Laura W. Bush Institute for Women’s Health, and the Board of Trustees for All Saints Episcopal School.
Paula and Charles have two children, Charles Ellis Key Jr. (Chase) and Carolyn, as well as four grandchildren.
John Stephen (Steve) Wright
President
Steve Wright graduated from Texas Tech University in 1974 with a degree in Business Management. Shortly after, he joined his father and brother at ASCO, where he gained experience in nearly every role within the company.
In 1982, Steve and his family moved to Casper, Wyoming, where he managed ASCO Equipment-Wyoming, a Clark-Michigan distributorship serving the state. In 1984, he returned to Amarillo and now serves as President of ASCO.
Steve and his wife, Lea, are deeply involved in local, state, and national politics. Steve has also contributed to his community by serving on several boards, including Senate District 31, the Amarillo Executive Club, the Texas Tech Red Raider Club Board of Directors, and the Advisory Board for Wells Fargo Bank, among others.
An avid outdoorsman, Steve enjoys hunting and fishing. Steve and Lea have three children: Robyn, Courtney, and Brandon.
W.B. (Brax) Wright
CEO
Brax graduated from the University of Texas in 1971 with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. After graduation, he began his career as an Offshore District Project Engineer for Exxon. He also served in the United States Army Reserve for six years, achieving the rank of sergeant in a heavy construction battalion.
Brax has held nearly every position at ASCO, gaining invaluable experience across the company before becoming Chief Executive Officer in 1997. Over the years, he has also served on numerous manufacturer advisory boards as well as other bank and company boards, contributing his expertise to guide key decisions.
Outside of work, Brax teaches the Adult Seekers Sunday School class at First Christian Church, where he serves as an elder. In his spare time, he enjoys golfing, camping, fly-fishing, reading, and writing. Brax is married to Beth, and together they have two children, John and Jill, and five grandchildren.
