Call it an attempt to fill a technology gap. Every time Deere and other farm-equipment manufacturers introduce a new piece of equipment, the dealer and his service staff get flooded with stacks of new service manuals. Suddenly, technicians have to become experts on everything from updated computer components to exotic hydraulic hookups. It's a service nightmare. Co. Compounding the problem is a severe shortage of farm-equipment technicians.
Dealers have a hard time attracting and holding professionals.
Not a happy prospect for you or them. Many manufacturers attack the root of the problem by assisting colleges and vo-tech schools in training more technicians. Kubota, for instance, recently donated 1,000 engines to schools to use in teaching future mechanics. All companies offer continuing education programs, which often include video reference manuals, computer programs and online help. All companies, too, encourage dealers to send employees to headquarters or regional schools.