First Parade...

Back in my army days first parade as far as vehicles were concerned involved checking that the vehicle was in every way prepared for that days work... Fairly simple with a Land Rover, check fuel and oil levels, kick the tyres and you're done. Chieftain MBT not quite as simple...

This combine harvester is the Chieftain MBT of the harvest and a lot has to be checked before the days work. I was up and out quite early to give Chris a hand with it. It has to be said that my part was starting the engine, stopping the engine passing spanners and turning pulleys... Chris a little more involved blowing off filters, greasing, lubricating, checking lifters and replacing bent and broken cutting knives.

The good news, they're into their wheat and getting better than 4.5 tons to the acre... they are very pleased.