The Ultimate Harvest Prep Checklist: 7 Smart Steps to Get Ahead of the Grain
Protect yield, prevent downtime, and keep your CLAAS combine running at peak performance
As crops start to ripen and harvest season creeps closer, now’s the time to tackle your harvest prep checklist and ensure your machines and your team are ready. Whether you’re running a few quarters or thousands of acres, a bit of front-end prep can mean the difference between a smooth harvest and lost hours in the heat of the rush.
Here’s a practical harvest prep checklist to help you get ahead (and stay ahead) this season.
1. Walk the Machine Before It Hits the Field
Start with a full inspection of your combine. Look for signs of wear on belts, chains, bearings, and augers. Replace anything showing fatigue, especially if you’re heading into heavy crop conditions. Don’t forget to check fluid levels, filters, and electrical systems.
Pro tip: Save time later by restocking common replacement parts now. Your local AgWest parts team can help you prep a field-ready kit.
2. Clean Grain Starts with Clean Machines
A clean combine isn’t just about appearance; it’s about efficiency and crop quality. Clear out debris from the grain tank, sieves, and chopper area. Dirty machines are more prone to fires, sensor errors, and poor grain separation.
Pro tip: CLAAS Lexion’s 4-D Cleaning System continuously adjusts for hillside conditions, keeping grain evenly distributed across the sieves, saving valuable kernels in uneven terrain.
3. Calibrate, Don’t Guess
Check and calibrate your sensors, yield monitors, and mapping tools. Confirm that your crop settings are saved and updated. This is especially key for producers who run multiple crops or moisture levels across the season.
Pro tip: Features like Auto Threshing, Auto Separation, and the Grain Quality Camera on CLAAS Lexion combines help fine-tune machine settings in real time, minimizing loss and maximizing performance (a key goal of smart harvest prep).
For a detailed calibration walkthrough, check out Iowa State University Extension’s guide, “Tips for Calibrating Your Combine’s Yield Monitor”, which offers clear steps on ensuring accurate harvest data.
4. Test Run, Not Trial by Fire
A dry-run (even just across a test plot or field edge) can reveal hidden issues in drive systems, hydraulics, or header function. Take the time to walk around with the machine running and listen for noises, leaks, or vibrations you don’t recognize.
Pro tip: The Cruise Pilot system by CLAAS works with Auto Contour and Convio headers to automatically adjust ground speed and throughput, based on operator targets like grain output or load limits.
Don’t forget to give the header a once-over too: inspect for wear and test the pickup or conveyor systems, especially if you’re running a Convio header.
5. Harvest Faster, Unload Smarter
Speed matters, but so does consistency. Make sure your unloading system is running smoothly, augers are undamaged, and grain carts or trucks are ready to keep pace.
Pro tip: CLAAS Lexion combines offer industry-leading unloading speeds and a high-capacity grain tank, helping you spend more time harvesting and less time waiting.
6. Don’t Skip the Tech Updates
If your machine uses software-based controls or precision ag integrations, check for firmware updates. Updated systems reduce downtime, improve accuracy, and ensure full use of automation features.
Pro tip: The CEMOS Advisor system provides real-time coaching and optimization, helping new and experienced operators get the most from every acre.
7. Support Matters: Don’t Go It Alone
Even the best-prepped machine can hit a snag. Make sure your service team is on speed dial and your parts supplier is ready. Keep manuals on hand and service records updated (you’ll thank yourself later).
Pro tip: From preseason inspections to in-season service, AgWest’s support team is here to help keep your harvest running smoothly.
Harvest Smart, Harvest Prepared, with AgWest and CLAAS
Great harvests don’t start at the first row: they start weeks before, in the yard, the shop, and the cab. Taking the time to harvest prep now protects your yield, your uptime, and your bottom line.
Whether you need CLAAS combine support or parts and service for harvest prep, your local AgWest team is ready to help you make the most of every pass.