This guide covers the most common wear items across Reel Mixers, Horizontal 4-Auger Mixers, and Vertical Mixers, and how to spot when they need adjustment or replacement.
TMR Mixer Maintenance Tips
To optimize mixer performance, more than just the auger flighting and reel arms need to be in good working order—small wear components like knives, scrapers and wipers can play a big role in mix quality and processing time. Ignoring these parts can lead to poorer mixing, wasted fuel and costly downtime.
This guide covers the most common wear items across Reel Mixers, Horizontal 4-Auger Mixers, and Vertical Mixers, and how to spot when they need adjustment or replacement.
Reel & 4-Auger Mixers
- Knives: Worn knives slow hay breakup and increase fuel use. Inspect upper and lower auger knives and the lower auger scalloped roughage knives if equipped. Replace with OEM parts for best results.
- Auger Flighting: Over time, flighting wears down, causing overprocessing and excess fines in the ration or poor feed movement
- Reel Mixer Wipers: For optimal cleanout and smooth operation, make sure the reel wiper arms are set close to the tub wall and are still providing a clean, even sweep. Monitor the backer plate condition and adjust if needed.
- Rear Drive: Open the drive enclosure and inspect chains, sprockets, and tensioners. For rear oil bath access machines, watch those oil drips to avoid taking the wrong kind of shower!
Vertical Auger Mixers
- Lead-Edge Scrapers: Critical for proper function. Adjust scrapers close to the tub wall, but without contact. Rotate augers to confirm clearance. If the mixer is not mixing properly, the first thing checked should be the scraper condition and position.
- Auger Timing: F10 and R12 are the codes to remember for twin auger machines, and F8, M10, and R12 for a triple auger mixer. F10 = Front auger lead flight at 10 o’clock position, R12 = Rear auger lead flight at 12 o'clock position.
- Kicker Arms: Inspect and replace as needed for efficient feed-out rates.
- Lead Edge Plates: On the auger flighting leading edge and kicker leading edge, inspect the pieces on the front edge to make sure proper coverage is still maintained.
- Auger Knives: If an auger knife loses its serrated edge, it’s time to replace.
Protect Your Investment
All mixer experience wear on tubs and auger troughs. Stainless steel liners on new mixers significantly extend potential tub life. If liners weren’t purchased initially, repair panels are available for most models.
Regular adjustments and timely replacements keep your mixer performing at its peak, helping you deliver consistent rations and maximize feeding efficiency for years to come.