How to Maintain a Chaff Cutter (And Make It Last Longer)

Before Every Use

Before switching the machine on, clear the feed tray and blade chamber of any leftover fodder, dust, or foreign objects from the last session — a stray stone or wire can chip a blade or jam the mechanism. Check that the blade guard is properly fitted and closed; on the Gokul 15, this guard is part of what keeps the cutting assembly safe to operate (see our guide on chaff cutter safety). If you're running a tractor-PTO model, confirm the PTO shaft guard is in place before engaging it. For the electric model, give the power cable and plug a quick visual check for fraying or damage.

After Every Use

Chopped fodder residue and dust left inside the housing attract moisture and speed up rust and corrosion, especially on the blade assembly. Clear out the blade chamber and feed tray, and wipe down the exterior of the machine. It only takes a couple of minutes, and it's the single habit that does the most to prevent the belt slipping, the blades dulling early, and the motor working harder than it needs to.

Weekly and Periodic Checks

Every week or two, depending on how often the machine runs, check the drive belt for wear, cracking, or slipping, and re-tension or replace it if needed — a loose belt is one of the most common reasons a chaff cutter starts sounding strained or cutting unevenly. Lubricate bearings and moving joints as recommended for your machine, and re-check bolts and fasteners for anything that's worked loose from vibration.

Also inspect the blades themselves. A blunt blade doesn't just cut less cleanly — it makes the motor work harder to force the same cut, which increases wear on the motor and belt over time and increases fodder wastage rather than reducing it, which defeats the point of chopping fodder in the first place (see our guide on chaff cutting and fodder wastage).

Blade Care, Sharpening, and Replacement

How often a blade needs sharpening depends on usage volume and what you're cutting — dry stalks and coarse crop residue dull a blade faster than soft green fodder. A sharp blade cuts with less resistance, puts less strain on the motor, and gives a cleaner, more even chop. Once a blade has been sharpened down to the point where it can't hold an edge any longer, it needs replacing rather than resharpening.

Thanvi keeps genuine spare parts, including replacement blades, available for both the Gokul 15 and the Gokul Tractor PTO for as long as you own the machine — part of the after-sales support we outline in our approach to working with customers. Reach out on WhatsApp with your machine details and we'll help you get the right part.

Storing the Machine Between Seasons

If the machine will sit unused for an extended stretch — between cutting seasons, for example — clean it thoroughly first so nothing is left to corrode or attract pests while it's idle. Cover it to keep off dust and moisture, disconnect the power supply on the electric model, and store the tractor-PTO attachment properly rather than leaving it coupled outdoors.

When It's Time to Call for Service

Regular cleaning and the checks above prevent most issues before they start. If you do run into unusual noise, the motor struggling to start, or persistent jamming that cleaning doesn't fix, see our guide on common chaff cutter motor problems for what to check safely — and reach out to us directly for anything beyond that.