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Why Overfilling a Mixer Wagon is BAD NEWS

Overfilling Mixer Wagon = BAD NEWS
  • Reel Mixers
    • Adds extra stress to sidewalls, chains, and bearings
    • Breaks chains or bearings due to fatigue (loading side wall will bulge out)
    • Feed doesn’t mix properly (have your nutritionist do bunk samples – you will find inconsistent rations)
    • A rule of thumb: the feed should fall off the reel; when the feed rolls with the reel it means it’s too full.
  • Staggered Rotor or a Helix Reel
    • Feed must be able to tumble in the mixer, if not it is too full
  • Vertical Mixers
    • Have your nutritionist do bunk samples with the feed running over, the mixer full, and with it ¾ full to test what gives you the best results
    • Mineral and protein placement is the most critical on these mixers (be sure every animal is getting their share)

TIP: To ensure you are getting a proper mix on a reel or vertical mixer, take some oranges (or something similar) and throw them in your mixer and watch where they go.

If you need help adjusting your feeder wagon, your ration, or load size – give us a call at 712-476-4500 and we’d be happy to help!