Tractors are hardworking machines that demand much from their drivers and costly investments; therefore, it pays to treat them correctly.
Preventative maintenance tasks can extend the life of your tractor and save time, money, and frustration. Here are a few key points you should keep in mind.
Check the Tires
As with any vehicle, tractor tires must be properly inflated to provide optimal traction, ride quality, and soil compaction. When done right, this can enormously positively impact traction, ride quality, and soil compaction – more so than many people realize!
Air pressure changes with temperature fluctuations, so it’s wise to monitor it daily by walking around your tractor and visually inspecting for oil leaks, dents and dings, and potential issues that could develop.
Uneven wear and tire alignment issues are major sources of damage over time. Every millimeter of misalignment results in one month’s loss of tire life; tools can help track these upkeep needs easily and simplify scheduling.
Change the Oil
No farm would be complete without its workhorses – tractor’s included! But even the most reliable tractors need regular service and maintenance to avoid expensive mechanical repairs or replacements down the line.
Check the oil level and condition regularly, using your owner’s manual to guide when and how much oil should be added.
Lubricate all moving parts regularly to prevent them from wearing out and becoming damaged over time including shafts, joints, and hinges. Also, apply grease to air filters to reduce how much dust they trap.
Check the Battery
Sacramento tractors are large investments for farmers and should last as long as possible. Proper preventative maintenance practices can extend their lives.
Clean the battery terminals and caps using a wire terminal brush and, if applicable, open up any removable battery caps to check electrolyte levels – if any are below their fill rings, add distilled water for additional electrolyte replenishment.
Remove and store the battery in a cool, dry location at the end of every season to avoid discharging it. Use a trickle charger during winter to ensure it has a sufficient charge when starting up your tractor again in spring. This way, you’ll ensure a good start-up experience!
Clean the Interior
Your tractor works hard in demanding conditions and can become dirty over time. Regular washing helps avoid the build-up of mud, grit, and other debris on its surfaces; use mild detergents like those in your car or home laundry soap for best results.
Before washing, take a quick walk-around to look for any problems like fuel leaks or body damage. Catching these early can save frustration and expense when repairs become necessary later.
Be sure to wear appropriate clothing and eye protection while cleaning the tractor. Start by clearing away any leaves, twigs, or larger debris from its exterior before beginning your task of washing it down.
Clean the Exterior
Tractors work hard in tough conditions and will inevitably become dirty over time. Simple daily maintenance measures can keep your tractor in great shape for years.
Start by giving your tractor a general wash. A hose and soap (vehicle soap, mild dish soap, or regular household cleaning products are ideal) should suffice to wash its exterior while periodically rinsing to avoid soap buildup. A scrub brush or sponge may be useful in tight spaces; large auto brushes work great for tire cleaning.
Avoid getting water into the engine or other sensitive areas, such as instrument panels. After washing, allow your tractor to air-dry before starting again.
Check the Lights
Tractor lights should be checked regularly. It only takes a few minutes to walk around and check that all the lights are functioning. This should be taken as a preventative measure to prevent serious accidents.
Air filters on tractors should also be regularly maintained to avoid engine strain. Clean your filters every 50 hours of operation for the best results.
Stepping up to protect and care for a tractor will extend its life and help it avoid costly repairs. By performing routine maintenance duties regularly, it can prevent costly repairs later.