Now that the cold and wet weather has returned, we have used this opportunity to begin our annual equipment maintenance. This is an extensive process as you may have imagined. Every unit receives oil changes, filter changes and grease. In addition, every piece of equipment will be carefully examined for broken parts or any adjustments that may be needed. The most time consuming process during winter equipment maintenance is the cutting units(reels). Every reel must be deconstructed and inspected for any bearings, oil seals or parts that need to be replaced. The reels are then set up in a grinding unit designed specifically for the purpose of sharpening the reel so that it will stand up to an entire season of cutting. While cutting, reels will spin at high speeds and lightly contact a straight edge known as the bedknife. New bedknives must also be installed and a grind is applied to compensate for any defects from the manufacturer or the bedbar that the bedknives mount on.
Winter equipment maintenance is time consuming, costly and difficult. However, winter equipment maintenance is also very important to our overall maintenance plan and to the final product of playability and aesthetics. Many of our equipment pieces are expected to last for many years and must be cared for. This is why preventative maintenance is so important along with educated and caring operators. In a case like this, what is happening inside the shop can be just as important as what is happening outside on the course. Quality equipment is the first step to a well maintained golf course!
