Ram 1500 pickup trucks on assembly line

Making sense of tariff terror

Farm Financial Planner: Tariffs’ effects on Canada’s sales of actual goods to the U.S. should not be as catastrophic as feared

If you see Trump’s tariff war as a man-bites-dog story, you’re right. The history of U.S. tariffs is a tale of tragedy and “we shouldn’t have done that” economics.



Ram and Leon Manufacturing made hydraulic cylinders and agricultural equipment, respectively. The family owned companies were both in business for more than 50 years but began having cash flow problems several years ago. Photo: Screencap via archive.org

Buyer found for bankrupt Ram Industries assets

The Yorkton, Sask. company, along with Leon Manufacturing, went into receivership last year after more than 50 years in business

The company was placed in receivership last June, ordered bankrupt in late January and on Feb. 27 the Court of King's Bench approved the sale to 102203996 Saskatchewan Ltd. for an undisclosed price.

truck for sale

CPIC can confirm if a machine or vehicle is stolen

When looking to make a deal, there is an online tool to help avoid being tricked into buying stolen property

Buying a used vehicle or piece of farm equipment privately from a seller usually involves having a bit of trust. Is the machine all the seller says it is? Does a bank hold a lien on it? And, perhaps most importantly, is the seller the actual owner? When dealing with an unfamiliar seller on a […] Read more


The uncertainty surrounding the tariff threat has farm equipment dealers in both the U.S. and Canada feeling uneasy. | File photo

Tariffs add to ‘perfect storm’ for ag equipment dealers

Commodity prices, high inventories and interest rates already pressuring sales as U.S. now threatens more disruption

The uncertainty surrounding the threat of substantial tariffs on key U.S. trading partners has North American businesses on edge. That is especially true for agricultural equipment manufacturers and the dealers that retail their products.

new holland tractor in service bay

‘Tis the season to reduce costs on regular maintenance, repair

Wintertime sees service programs and parts discounts from OEMs

After a hectic harvest season, there may be a temptation to park machines in the shed, close the door and forget about them until next spring. But that’s not a good idea. Performing regular maintenance of equipment now can help cut costs. Dealerships looking to keep their mechanics busy in the off season typically offer […] Read more


Every farmer’s mechanical skill set, particularly at busy times of the year, should include knowing when he or she needs to call in the professional.

Repairing farm equipment safely

Ag Safety: Maintenance and repair requirements are laid out with the machine operator's safety in mind

Maintenance and repairs are routine tasks on farms. Equipment breaks down, and machinery requires regular upkeep; it’s just a regular part of farming. Proper knowledge, information and tools are crucial for carrying out maintenance and repairs effectively and safely. Bill C-244, an amendment to the federal Copyright Act, allows Canadians access to vehicle, machinery and […] Read more