My Experience with the Moultrie Ranch Auger Feeder: A Detailed Review
As a farmer managing Naturalknow Farm while holding a full-time job, I needed a reliable solution to automate feeding my goats, especially since I’m only on the farm during weekends. After some research, I decided to invest in the Moultrie Ranch Auger Automatic Feeder, which promised a large 450-pound feed capacity and the convenience of feeding livestock twice a day. However, after a year of use, my experience has been a mix of highs and lows.
Setup and Installation: Simple but With Flaws
At a price of $699.99, the Moultrie Ranch Auger Feeder initially seemed like a good investment. The assembly process was fairly easy to follow, and I had the feeder ready within a few hours. However, I did face a few complications:
• Screw and bolt issues: While installing the feeder legs, one screw completely lost its threading, making it impossible to adjust the leg without cutting the screw and replacing it. This small but frustrating problem is something other customers have also mentioned in Moultrie product forums, so it’s worth keeping in mind.
• Battery compartment problem: Another installation hiccup came when trying to fit the battery into its compartment. A long screw, extending from the inside of the feeder, obstructed the battery, forcing me to make some adjustments.
Despite these challenges, I managed to get the feeder operational. However, this was just the beginning of the issues I would encounter.
Performance: Moisture and Motor Jamming
Once the feeder was installed and running, it worked smoothly at first, dispensing feed on schedule twice a day. I used a variety of feeds, including dried pellets, corn, and other grains. However, the real trouble began whenever it rained.
Moisture seepage was a recurring issue. Even though the feeder was advertised as weather-resistant, the feed inside would become wet and clumpy every time it rained. This moisture would cause the feed to jam the auger, leading to motor failures. Over time, this issue became frequent, affecting all types of feed I tried.
For those considering this feeder for outdoor use, I highly recommend reading this guide on keeping feed dry, which outlines different strategies to protect outdoor feeders from moisture.
Troubleshooting: Timer and Motor Issues
After dealing with repeated jams, the feeder finally stopped working altogether. While the motor still spun during manual tests, it wouldn’t run during the scheduled feeding times. I suspected the issue was with the timer, so I ordered a replacement. At the time of writing this review, I am still waiting for the new timer to arrive, but I’m hopeful it will resolve the problem. If not, I may have to look for a new feeder altogether.
Customer Service: A Disappointing Experience
In hopes of getting some answers, I reached out to Moultrie customer support. After multiple attempts to contact them via phone, I finally used their online chat. Two days later, they responded, only to inform me that they do not sell replacement parts for the auger system. Instead, they suggested I purchase a new auger kit, which would cost over $200—far from a reasonable solution for a feeder that I’d only used for a year.In hopes of getting some answers, I reached out to Moultrie customer support. After multiple attempts to contact them via phone, I finally used their online chat. Two days later, they responded, only to inform me that they do not sell replacement parts for the auger system. Instead, they suggested I purchase a new auger kit, which would cost over $200—far from a reasonable solution for a feeder that I’d only used for a year.
This lack of accessible replacement parts and the slow customer service response time was incredibly disappointing. If you’re relying on quick fixes, Moultrie may not be the best option. For those facing similar issues, you might find this troubleshooting guide for automatic feeders helpful.
Conclusion: Worth the Price?
After a year of using the Moultrie Ranch Auger Feeder, I can’t fully recommend it for farmers who rely on a hassle-free feeding solution. While the large feed capacity and ease of installation are attractive, the issues with moisture, feed jamming, and poor customer service make it a less-than-ideal option—especially considering the $699.99 price tag.
For those considering this feeder, here are the key takeaways:
• Price: $699.99 for 450 lbs feed capacity, which is high considering its flaws.
• Installation: Easy but with some issues related to screws and the battery compartment.
• Performance: Suffers from moisture problems, causing feed to jam the motor.
• Customer Support: Slow and unsatisfactory, with no option for replacing small parts.
I am waiting for the new timer to arrive, and I’ll provide an update on whether it resolves the issue. Until then, I suggest considering alternative livestock feeders, especially if you’re in a rainy climate. You may want to explore other feeder options that offer better moisture protection and more reliable customer support, such as Redstone Ranch Feeders.
Helpful Resources:
• How to Maintain Outdoor Feeders
• Moultrie Customer Support
• Common Issues with Automatic Feeders
While the Moultrie Ranch Auger Feeder may work for some, my experience shows it’s not without significant drawbacks. Stay tuned for updates on whether the new timer improves the situation!
