Manure Spreader: Which Parts Should You Check and Replace to Get Ready for the Season ?

TheManure spreader is subject to particularly difficult operating conditions: heavy loads, moisture, abrasive materials, impacts, and high stress on the transmission components. Regular inspection of the mainwear parts for the spreader helps minimize breakdowns and maintain an even distribution of manure.

Before the spreading campaign begins, there are several factors that deserve special attention.

Inspect the manure spreader blades

The manure spreader blades are directly stressed during the shredding and ejection of the material.

Mounted on the spreader rotors, they must maintain a sufficiently uniform shape to ensure proper operation.

A knife may need to be replaced when it is:

• heavily worn ;
• rounded ;
• twisted ;
• cracked ;
• broken ;
• or when its mounting holes are damaged.

When replacing it, check thelength, width, thickness, hole diameter, and fastener center-to-center distance.

Some spreaders also use different blades on the right and left sides.

Camagris offers interchangeable blades for many brands of spreaders, such asJeantil, Pichon, Sodimac, Deguillaume, Le Boulch, Strautmann, Gilibert, or Rock.

Check the spreader tines

Themanure spreader tines are responsible for shredding and spraying the product.

Depending on the machine, they can be vertical or horizontal and accommodate different types of knives, blades, or throwing elements.

Before the season, check:

• the condition of the knives ;
• brackets and fasteners ;
• the axes ;
• the bearings ;
• the bearings ; ;
• the absence of abnormal play ;
• the overall condition of the rotor.

Significant differences in wear among the various components of a spreader can cause vibrations and reduce the evenness of the spread.

Chains and bars of the moving floor

Themoving bottom of the spreader gradually carries the manure to the hedgehogs.

It generally consists of chains connected by links.

The chains are under particularly heavy strain when the spreader is transporting heavy or compact material.

It is recommended that you check the following regularly:

• chain tension ;
• wear on the links ;
• the condition of the bars ;
• the fasteners ;
• the drive sprockets ;
• the tensioners.

A chain that is too loose can result in improper operation or a misalignment between the sides of the moving floor.

Sprockets and Drive Train of the Spreader

The transmission drives the moving floor and the spreading mechanisms.

Depending on the machine, it may include varioussprockets, chains, shafts, gearboxes, universal joints, bearings, and couplings.

Any unusual noise or excessive play should be checked immediately.

When replacing a bearing or sprocket, also check the condition of the surrounding parts. A new part installed on a severely worn shaft or alongside another defective component is likely to wear out quickly.

Bearings and Bearing Housings

Thebearings and manure spreader bearings work in an environment that is particularly prone to moisture and splashes.

They must therefore be monitored regularly.

There are several signs that may indicate wear and tear:

• abnormal play ;
• noise during rotation ;
• Warm-up ;
• irregular rotation ;
• deterioration of the waterproofing.

When the bearing part number is still visible, it is usually the easiest way to find an equivalent part.

Dimensions can also be used for identification: inner diameter, outer diameter, and width.

Check the hydraulic components

Many spreaders use ahydraulic drive for the moving floor allowing the feed rate of the material to be adjusted.

Before the campaign, check the following:

• hoses ;
• fittings ;
• the cylinders ;
• the hydraulic motor ;
• retailers ;
• any leaks.

A hose that is cracked or leaking must be replaced before a rupture causes the machine to shut down.

How important is this for the quality of the application ?

The condition of the mechanical parts directly affects the quality of manure distribution.

Heavily worn knives can reduce the shredding of material, while an uneven moving floor can affect the feed rate of the shredders.

A properly maintained machine helps maintain a more consistent flow rate and better distribution across the working width.

How do I find a part for my manure spreader ?

Before searching for a part, make a note of the following, if possible:

• the brand of the spreader ;
• the exact model ;
• the manufacturer's part number for the old part ;
• its dimensions ;
• the diameter of the fasteners ;
• the center-to-center distance ;
• the right or left side, as needed.

For wear parts such as blades, comparing dimensions often makes it possible to quickly identify the correct model.

For bearings, bushings, and mechanical components, use the part number printed directly on the part as your primary reference.

Which brands of spreaders are affected ?

Maintenance principles are similar for most manure spreaders.

Camagris is expanding its product line for spreaders, among other thingsJeantil, Pichon, Sodimac, Deguillaume, Le Boulch, Strautmann, Gilibert, Rock as well as other manufacturers of spreading equipment.

The product line is regularly updated with the addition of new knife models and wear parts.

Preparing Your Spreader Before the Season Begins

A few checks performed before the season begins can help prevent breakdowns when the machine is in full operation.

Before the first applications:

1. Check the blades and bristles ;
2. Check the chains on the conveyor belt ;
3. Check the tension and condition of the sprockets ;
4. Check for any play in the bearings and bushings ;
5. Check the hydraulic hoses and lines ;
6. Check the fasteners and bolts ;
7. Lubricate the various points specified by the manufacturer.

Preventive replacement of a part showing significant wear is generally preferable to a work stoppage during a project.

Parts for manure spreaders at Camagris

Camagris offersSpare parts and wear parts for manure spreaders, including a line of hedgehog knives designed for use with various manufacturers.

You can search for your parts bybrand, part number, or dimensions to make it easier to identify the model that matches your spreader.

Frequently Asked Questions About Manure Spreaders

When should you replace a spreader blade ?

A blade should be replaced when it is severely worn, warped, cracked, or broken. A significant difference in wear among the blades on the same rotor may also warrant their replacement.

How do you measure a manure spreader blade ?

Measure the length, width, thickness, hole diameter, and the distance between the centers of the fasteners. Also check the shape and the mounting orientation.

How can you tell if a spreader bearing is worn out ?

Excessive play, unusual noise, overheating, or irregular rotation may indicate that a bearing needs to be inspected or replaced.

Why inspect the chains on the moving conveyor ?

The chains ensure that the manure is conveyed to the tines. Incorrect tension or excessive wear can disrupt the feed flow and cause the system to malfunction.

Where can I find parts for a manure spreader ?

Camagris offers a variety of wear parts, including blades for manure spreaders from several manufacturers. You can search by brand, dimensions, or manufacturer part number.