Parts availability, affordability key to machine productivity

Agricultural mechanization is one investment every farmer should consider.

Machines have proven to be crucial in boosting productivity, efficiency, and income for the farmer, especially in the long run.

A farmer, however, should keep in mind that the purchase of these machines is just one part of the equation.

Contrary to what most advertisements claim, the reality is that no tractor brand is immune from breakdowns since farming entails heavy work. A farmer must understand that agricultural machines deal with the difficult tasks and endure the harshest elements on the field, thus they are highly prone to mishandling and damage apart from the usual wear and tear.

Therefore, when breakdowns happen, what should a machine owner expect from his trusted seller? How crucial is the role of the seller to the overall maintenance of the agricultural machine?

The seller should have in-house mechanics on standby that can quickly respond to service requests. Equally important, the dealer should have available spare parts and offer them at reasonable prices. The last thing a farmer would want is to wait for mechanics and parts to become available while his productivity and profits decrease by the day.

As such, before making that investment, a buyer should inspect the parts warehouse of the dealer. The seller should have most, if not all, of the spares on stock. Otherwise, expect to wait for months each time critical parts are needed because the seller will have to order from its supplier and wait for the shipment to arrive. During this period, the machine will be practically useless to its owner.

Spare parts should also be offered at reasonable prices. Because your seller is the only source of spares for your machine, it has the power to overcharge you. Thus, it would be wise for the buyer to include the annual spare parts expense in the cost computation before their equipment purchase. Experienced farmers know that parts expenses accumulate over the years.

For consultation regarding agricultural mechanization, refer to long-time leading supplier and partner of Filipino farmers, Ford Tractor Philippines (FTPI). FTPI is a foremost specialist in tractors, harvesters, planters and implements. It is also one of the biggest spare parts providers in the country. Get in touch with Ford Tractor Philippines at Tel. No. (+632) 256-5275 to 78 or visit their website https://fordtractor.net.