With diesel prices placing increasing pressure on farming operations, speakers highlighted the role of quality fuel, lubricants, and preventative maintenance in preserving machinery, reducing costs, and limiting downtime.
Use premium fuel
Fuel quality has a direct impact on tractor performance and engine life. Poor-quality or contaminated diesel can reduce power output, increase wear on engine components, and lead to costly repairs.
Farmers are advised to purchase fuel from reputable suppliers and ensure storage tanks are clean and regularly maintained to avoid contamination from water or dirt.
During the dialogue, Tshepo Moabelo, head of supply chain and integrated value manager at Shell Lubricants South Africa, said high-performance fuels and lubricants help farmers improve operational efficiency and maintain productivity during critical periods such as planting and harvesting.
He added that global uncertainty and rising fuel costs continue to place pressure on agriculture and food systems, making fuel efficiency increasingly important.
Choose the right lubricant
Using the correct lubricant for a tractor’s engine and operating conditions helps reduce friction, protect moving parts, and improve long-term efficiency. High-quality lubricants also help machinery cope with heavy workloads and demanding seasonal conditions.
Aluwani Museisi, country chair for Shell Downstream South Africa, stressed the importance of investing in quality lubricants: “You have to invest in the right lubricants to protect your machinery, improve efficiency, and extend the lifespan of your equipment. Quality matters when it comes to keeping farming operations running productively.”
He also highlighted the close relationship between energy availability and agricultural production, noting that disruptions in energy supply can directly affect food production systems.
Prioritise preventative maintenance
Routine servicing, including oil and filter changes, is essential to avoid breakdowns during peak farming periods. Preventative maintenance helps identify small issues before they become expensive failures and keeps equipment operating reliably.
The practical importance of maintenance was reinforced by Mathys Prinsloo, who runs a commercial mixed farming operation in Dullstroom, Mpumalanga.
“Your tractor is your life. It’s the tool you use to do all your work, and the moment that tractor breaks down or can no longer work efficiently, it sets you back. If you take care of your machine, your machine will take care of you,” he said.
Monitor performance and act early
Overheating, unusual engine sounds, or rising fuel consumption can indicate maintenance or lubrication issues. Addressing problems early may help extend equipment life and improve performance.
Mpho Mokwena, the technical and services manager at Shell Lubricants South Africa, said maintenance programmes and technical support are aimed at helping farmers “keep their machinery operating consistently and sustainably”, ensuring tractors remain operational over the long term.
