MAJOR TWIN-TURBO REPAIR – HARVEST SAVED

1,000-ACRE DAIRY FARM

THE CLIENT:

G.M. & S. Silvester & Sons is a family-run dairy farm based in Hampshire. The business operates approximately 1,000 acres and produces all of its own silage to support the herd. In addition, the business supports another farm with the harvest of around 400 acres of maize each year. With a strong focus on efficient, self-sufficient farming, this family-run farm relies on large-scale agricultural operations.

THE CHALLENGE:

Just before first cut silage, the farm’s CLAAS Jaguar 870 forage harvester suffered a major breakdown. The fault was initially thought to be an electrical issue, leading to significant diagnostic work and repair attempts. However, further investigation revealed that it was a major engine malfunction. The engine was a write-off, causing catastrophic damage to both turbochargers after internal components failed and passed through the twin turbos.

Several turbo specialists were unable and unwilling to assist due to the extent of the damage, while others recommended costly replacement units. With silage production at risk and the need for a quick solution to pair with a new engine, the business needed a fast, specialist repair solution to get this critical machine back into operation.

WHAT WE DID:

To save the turbochargers, both units were fully stripped and carefully inspected to assess the damage. Damaged components were replaced, while the mating faces were precision machined to ensure a perfect seal once refitted. Replacement exhaust wheels were sourced from overseas due to their specialist nature. Both turbochargers were then fully rebuilt and repaired, providing a cost-effective alternative to replacement and returning the machine to service as quickly as possible.

THE RESULTS:

Following completion of the repairs, the client collected the fully rebuilt turbochargers and was able to return this critical harvesting machine to service. The farm’s silage production was fully restored, safeguarding an important food source for the dairy herd. The end result was a quick and efficient repair at a fraction of the cost of new turbos. To provide additional confidence, the repair was backed by a 12-month warranty with unlimited operating hours and mileage, giving the customer peace of mind.

“The team achieved what others weren’t interested in taking on. Their specialist twin-turbo repair got our CLAAS Jaguar back to work quickly, helping us get the silage in the clamp.”

Philip Silvester – Farmer