Farm Equipment Mechanics


Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources > Farm Equipment Mechanics > Overview
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Farm Equipment Mechanics

Farm Equipment Mechanics - Overview

Farm equipment mechanics make sure that farm machinery operates correctly.

Farm equipment mechanics maintain, repair, and install machines used for planting, harvesting, and other farm activities. They check equipment and make minor adjustments, clean parts, and tune engines.

When a piece of farm equipment is not working correctly, mechanics must figure out what is wrong. They use testing equipment to find the problem. They watch the engine while it is running to find any loose parts or leaks. Sometimes they must take the engine apart to find a problem. Farm equipment mechanics replace worn and broken parts. They monitor the repaired machine to make sure it is running properly.

Some farm equipment mechanics focus on specific types of farm machines, such as large tractors or combines. Others install and repair irrigation and sprinkler systems. Farm equipment mechanics document the repairs they make and the parts they use in order to calculate a bill.

As farming practices are updated, more advanced farming equipment is being used. Modern farming equipment uses advanced electronics and computer technology. Farm equipment shops sometimes require mechanics to update their skills so they can service advanced equipment.

Usually farmers bring farm equipment to the shop for maintenance and repairs. Sometimes farm equipment mechanics travel to farms to work on large machinery. Mechanics may also make emergency trips to farms during the planting or harvesting season.

Source: Illinois Career Information System (CIS) brought to you by Illinois Department of Employment Security.