Farm Mechanics Merit Badge Requirements

Requirements

1. # Copy link to requirement 1
   Do the following:
   1. # Copy link to requirement 1.a
      Discuss with your counselor the safety equipment, tools, and clothing used while checking or repairing farm equipment. Use this equipment, tools, and/or clothing (when needed or called for) in meeting the requirements for this merit badge.
   2. # Copy link to requirement 1.b
      Draw a plan showing a well-equipped farm shop. Point out the shop’s mandatory safety devices and features.
   3. # Copy link to requirement 1.c
      Find all the universal warning and safety symbols on a piece of equipment and explain what they mean.
   4. # Copy link to requirement 1.d
      Describe what a safety data sheet (SDS) is and tell why it is used. Obtain the SDS for any engine coolant, oil, grease, fuel, hydraulic or transmission fluid, or other flammable or hazardous materials you use in meeting the requirements for this merit badge.
2. # Copy link to requirement 2
   Explain how power is produced or transferred in a:
   1. # Copy link to requirement 2.a
      Diesel engine
   2. # Copy link to requirement 2.b
      Hydraulic system
   3. # Copy link to requirement 2.c
      Transmission or any other power system.
3. # Copy link to requirement 3
   Do TWO of the following:
   1. # Copy link to requirement 3.a
      Replace the handle of any tool found on the farm.
   2. # Copy link to requirement 3.b
      Organize a tool rack or a storage system for nails, bolts, nuts, and washers.
   3. # Copy link to requirement 3.c
      Using a hand file, properly dress the mushroomed head of a chisel or punch.
   4. # Copy link to requirement 3.d
      Using a hand file, correctly dress a screwdriver tip.
4. # Copy link to requirement 4
   Do ONE of the following:
   1. # Copy link to requirement 4.a
      On an engine-powered machine: Grease all fittings, change the oil and oil filter, clean the air filter, clean the radiator fins, and replace the fuel filters.
   2. # Copy link to requirement 4.b
      For any engine-powered machine, create a preoperational checklist; include checking the engine coolant, engine oil, hydraulic and/or transmission fluid, and battery voltage (using a voltmeter). Using your checklist, conduct a preoperational check of that machinery or equipment.
   3. # Copy link to requirement 4.c
      Prepare any farm machine for winter storage.
5. # Copy link to requirement 5
   Visit an implement dealer. Interview the dealer technician or service manager for hints on good preventive maintenance. Ask why it is important, the costs, and what causes wear or damage. Report what you learn.
6. # Copy link to requirement 6
   Explain each step in ONE of the following maintenance procedures:
   1. # Copy link to requirement 6.a
      Tightening hydraulic fittings.
   2. # Copy link to requirement 6.b
      Checking the air filter.
   3. # Copy link to requirement 6.c
      Cleaning a work piece with a wire-brush wheel.
7. # Copy link to requirement 7
   Find out about three career opportunities in farm mechanics. Pick one and find out the education, training, and experience required for this profession. Discuss this with your counselor, and explain why this profession might interest you.