Universal Feeders FAQs

Questions about choosing, using, or caring for a Universal Feeder? Select a question below to expand the answer.

Are Universal Feeders strong enough for cattle?

Yes. Universal Feeders have been used on cattle stations in Australia’s Kimberley region, where equipment faces demanding and remote conditions. Choose the model and livestock access configuration suited to your operation.

What type of coating is used on the feeder?

The steel sheets are zinc-coated, and the bases are hot-dip galvanized for durability and corrosion resistance.

Can I lift a feeder when it contains grain?

The manufacturer states that Universal Feeders are designed to be lifted with grain inside. Before moving a loaded feeder, confirm the lifting method for your model and the total loaded weight. Use suitable equipment within its rated capacity and follow the manufacturer’s handling instructions. Contact RamQuip if you need help finding the instructions for your feeder.

Are Universal Feeders easy to move around the farm?

Feeders can be relocated with a tractor or other suitable lifting equipment. An optional trailer and dolly configuration can make moving between paddocks and feeding areas easier. Ask RamQuip about compatible mobility options for your model.

Can I tow the feeder behind a vehicle?

The manufacturer describes slow-speed skid towing for empty feeders. Trailer and dolly options are available for moving feeders over longer distances. Confirm the approved towing setup, load limits, and speed for your particular model before moving it.

What makes Universal Feeders durable?

Universal Feeders combine zinc-coated steel sheets, hot-dip galvanized bases, and internal supports. The Ultimate Series also uses a one-adjuster design that removes the lower adjuster from the area where saliva, rain, and dirt can collect.

Can Universal Feeders be used outdoors in wet weather?

Universal Feeders are designed for outdoor use, with a sloped roof, water-deflection lip, and drainage holes to help keep feed dry. Check feed and the feeding area regularly, especially after wind-driven rain or during humid weather. Remove wet or spoiled feed and clear any buildup that restricts feed flow.

Which types of livestock can use Universal Feeders?

Universal Feeders can be used for sheep, lambs, goats, kids, cattle, and calves. Match the feeder model, access opening, and any creep-gate attachments to the animals you are feeding.

How easy is it to clean and maintain a Universal Feeder?

Corrosion-resistant materials and accessible surfaces make routine cleaning and maintenance straightforward. Check for wet feed, caking, and blocked feed outlets.

Use the supplied scraper tool, stored in a small hole on the top side of the adjuster cover, to scrape out the lick groove when needed.

When the feeder is not in use or is being put into storage, make sure the trough and lick area are cleaned thoroughly. Doing so will extend the life of your feeder.

What types of feed can I use?

The manufacturer lists grains such as corn, wheat, barley, and oats; pellets including soy hull and alfalfa pellets, protein pellets, and complete ration pellets. Legumes such as beans and peas are also compatible.

Different feed sizes and textures flow differently. Adjust the feeder when you change feed, and check consumption rather than assuming the same setting will produce the same intake. For a particular feed product or mix, confirm compatibility by checking with a RamQuip representative or your local dealer before use.

How many animals can one Universal Feeder support?

Use the following head-count guidelines when choosing a feeder. Actual requirements depend on animal size, feeding space, feed, and the feeding program.

Supplementary feeding

Animals receive additional nutrition from pasture or other feed sources.

Livestock6600400020008005 Ton Bull Buffet
Cattle3535171140
Sheep1801809060Not applicable
Goats1801809060Not applicable

Intensive or feeder-dependent feeding

This is a feedlot-style program where the animals depend on the feeder for all their nutrition.

Livestock6600400020008005 Ton Bull Buffet
Cattle3535171135
Sheep1501507550Not applicable
Goats1501507550Not applicable

The 5 Ton Bull Buffet is for cattle only. These are feeder-access guidelines, not a complete ration recommendation. Discuss your livestock and feeding program with a RamQuip representative or your local dealer when choosing a feeder.

How much feed does a Universal Feeder hold?

Capacity by weight changes with the type and density of feed. The manufacturer’s U.S. capacity and dimension figures are shown below.

Specification6600400020008005 Ton Bull Buffet
Feed volume119.5 bu71 bu35.5 bu14.2 buApprox. 179 bu
Shelled corn6,692 lb3,976 lb1,988 lb795 lb10,000 lb
Barley5,736 lb3,408 lb1,704 lb682 lb—
Oats3,824 lb2,272 lb1,136 lb454 lb—
Length × width93 × 62 in93 × 62 in48 × 62 in32 × 62 in—
Fill height76 in58 in58 in48 in—

Be aware that feed densities can vary depending on the commodity. Ask your local dealer or RamQuip representative if you have questions.

Where can I buy Universal Feeders in the United States?

RamQuip is the U.S. and Canadian distributor for Universal Feeders. Use the dealer locator and select “Universal Feeder Dealers,” or contact RamQuip for help finding a dealer.

Is the Bull Buffet a saliva-lick feeder?

No. The Bull Buffet uses a traditional trough and a single slide to adjust feed flow. The Ultimate models use an adjustable saliva-lick feeding system.

Which Universal Feeder size should I choose?

Compare livestock suitability, feeding access, bin capacity, fill height and your expected feed use. Share your group size and feeding program with RamQuip for help comparing models.

Does a model’s name equal its feed capacity in pounds?

Use the specification table rather than the model name. Listed weight capacities are based on shelled corn; other feeds can have different bulk densities.

Are trailer configurations suitable for the same livestock as the base model?

Confirm suitability for the exact configuration. The 6600 Super Single is cattle only.