4 Quick Tips for Routine Tractor Maintenance
Helping you out with plowing, planting, fertilizing, and much more, your tractor can get the job done. There are a number of new and used tractors for sale that help you complete the most important tasks at the farm or other ag worksite. So, regular upkeep is essential to keep your equipment performing at its best, and for years to come. With so many makes, models, and moving parts, consider this a starting point for taking care of your most valuable piece of equipment. Equipment Trader is sharing four quick tips for routine tractor maintenance.
1. Before You Work with Your Tractor
Always check your owner’s manual, or look on the manufacturer’s website for more details on proper maintenance and what’s covered by the warranty. If you need an expert to help out when performing regular maintenance or repairs, know what to look for when you hire a trustworthy equipment mechanic. Your equipment’s manual should have more information on safety procedures for maintenance and care, but here’s a quick run-down for pre-work equipment inspections:
- Check oil levels for the hydraulic system
- Check the coolant level
- Maintain correct tire pressure
- Looking for any damage to belts, hoses, or oil leaks
- Inspect the switches to make sure they’re fully operating
- Make sure the lights are working
- Inspect to make sure the Roll Over Protection System mount is secure
- Ensure you have adequate fuel level for use
Inspecting your equipment before you use it for the workday is one way to make certain you’re getting optimal performance. Follow these tips for tractor safety to reduce risks for you and your workforce.
2. Long-Term Maintenance for Tractors
After longer periods of use, there are a number of tractor parts that will require maintenance. Again, you should always follow your manual, check with the manufacturer for proper maintenance, and go to an expert when it comes to heavy duty repairs. Equipment degradation will occur naturally over time based on how many hours you’ve put in with your equipment, and how you’ve been using your tractor. In the long run, there are several parts you’ll need to maintain or replace on your tractor, here are some steps you can take to ensure you’re getting the most out of your machinery:
- Clean your radiator screen after every 50 hours of use
- Check your battery fluid level after 100 hours of use, and then at 50-hour intervals
- Grease lubrication fittings after 100 hours of use, and then at 50-hour intervals
- Replace air filter after 100 hours of use; then check your air filter at 50-hour intervals
- Change engine oil and replace oil filter after 200 hours of use, and then check at 50-hour intervals
- Check your tractor’s steering, front wheel alignment, and the axle oil level after 200 hours of use, and then check at 50-hour intervals
- Change transmission fluid after 300 hours of use, then check at 50-hour intervals
- Clean hydraulic oil filter after 300 hours of use, then check at 50-hour intervals
- Adjust steering gear, replace fluids after 400 hours of use, then check at 50-hour intervals
- Replace coolants once a year or after 1,000 hours of use, whichever comes first
3. Maintain Tractor Attachments
If you’re using tractor attachments, keep them clean! This includes backhoes, bedformers, harvesters, and much more. Many farm workers rely on attachments like blades, so give them a cleaning to keep them in the best condition when performing your tractor maintenance. This will prevent them from going dull and getting rusty. Detach the blade and carefully polish it with a grinding wheel. Or, take it to a professional to have this service performed. Monitor your attachments after each use to keep them in their best condition over time, and so they’re ready when you start the next day’s work.
4. Clean Your Tractor
Prevent damage, rust, and depreciation by cleaning your tractor, and be sure to remove the buildup of dirt and debris. When washing, you can go with a foam or spray product designed specifically for tractors to remove dirt, mud, and grime from different surfaces. Start by cleaning the tires with a scrub or auto brush and soap. Clean the body of your tractor with a simple rag and warm, soapy water. You can also use a pressure washer to help remove a heavier buildup of debris. However, with the pressure washer, you have to be careful not to damage your engine and mechanical parts. And after your wash, let the tractor air dry, and give it a coat of wax so it’s looking its best.
These quick tips give you a better overview of the basics when it comes to tractor maintenance. They’ll also help out with older makes and models if you’re buying a used tractor that may have some parts that need upkeep or replacement. And if you’re currently shopping on the market for your next new or used piece of equipment, be sure to see all the listings on the nationwide marketplace at EquipmentTrader.com.
Ryan Miller
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