Harvest season is one of the busiest months for farmers and implement dealers as it requires a lot of preparation. Implement dealers need to make sure that they have enough parts on hand. They also need their employees to be up to par with their knowledge on the equipment in order to best serve Wisconsin farmers. Caleb Latham, parts manager at Sloan Implement says they’re ready to support farmers during the upcoming busy months.
“Our technicians are mentally prepared and have their equipment and tools ready to go,” says Latham. “They are making sure their diagnostic equipment works from the field. They’re doing everything it takes so that they are fully prepared for whatever a farmer may need help with.”
It’s always when you’re trying to beat the rain or racing the clock when something breaks. And then you’ve got to go get parts. The question is: will the parts be there? Latham says they’re the most prepared they’ve ever been for the harvest, at least for common makes and models.
Finding enough mechanics and technicians can be a challenge. Latham says they are lucky to have a full staff of hard-working and educated individuals. They are ready to take on this responsibility and be there for the farmers. He says they even take it a step further to ensure the future farmers will have a reliable workforce as well by helping to support those currently in school and supplying them the tools they need to meet the future demands of farmers.
Latham says, “We provide tools to students to learn how to work on equipment and educate the new wave of technicians.”
The last couple years have been challenging with supply chain issues affecting part distribution. However, Latham says things are back on track. Sloan Implement forecasts their parts inventory everyday to ensure they will have whatever a farmer may need. And if they don’t have it on hand, they have a backup plan ready.
When it comes to newer equipment, Latham says sales have been moderate and there haven’t been any shortages. He says used equipment is also in high demand.
“Farmers need to take the time to make sure that their equipment is up to par before harvest season begins,” says Latham. “Many are busy with other tasks but they shouldn’t put this off as this could be the difference between having a successful harvest or breaking down in the field.”
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