This is the view of Andrew Corrigan, Co Kildare, the main Lister agent and shearing equipment provider for the Republic of Ireland.When operating a machine for the first time, after a period of storage, Andrew says that all plugs and leads should be checked.
This is the view of Andrew Corrigan, Co Kildare, the main Lister agent and shearing equipment provider for the Republic of Ireland.
When operating a machine for the first time, after a period of storage, Andrew says that all plugs and leads should be checked.
“Safety should always be the first concern. It is worth giving the machine a once-over to make sure that all wiring and leads are OK and no wires have frayed or cracked with incorrect storage,” he said.
Oiling the machine is the next step and Andrew says that a correctly oiled machine will improve the cutting quality and take pressure off the machine. He cautions shearers with newer hand pieces not to overfill the oil bath (section on hand piece that is filled with oil). “If you overfill the oil bath, the oil will put excess pressure on the seals at the back and greatly increase the risk of bursting them. It is better to let some oil back out if you have filled the bath to the top.”
Boiling water
Once shearing has been completed for the year, Andrew recommends washing out all equipment with boiling water.
This, he says, will remove any grease and dirt which, if left over the winter, may lead to rusting or interference with the movement of the cutters.
Boiling water will also dry faster. The shears and hand piece should be stored in a dry area, free from dampness or potential access to vermin.
If your machine is a flexi-shears, the hanging lead should be hung straight or stored flat. This will ensure that the outer surface of the lead does not get porous during storage.
It is critical to store blades, combs and spare cutters free from any moisture or dampness, once they have been cleaned with boiling water.
“Some people store these pieces in oil as they think it will prevent rust. This does not work as even a very small percentage of water or moisture in oil will lead to rusting. It is best to store them in brown paper or a means that works for you.
“An old Maori shearer told me the best place to store blades and cutters is in flour as there is no moisture whatsoever,” said Andrew.
Read more
http://www.farmersjournal.ie/high-stakes-at-2016-shearing-championships-208264
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