Tractor Maintenance: Ten Donts
Tractor maintenance is essential for keeping your tractor running safely for many years. The following are ten important ‘don’ts’ that you should keep in mind in order to keep your tractor operating in tip-top shape.
1. Don’t Overtighten Bolts and Nuts: Many tractor repairs involve loosening, aligning, and then tightening bolts and nuts. While it’s important to make sure these are sufficiently tight, it’s also important to avoid overtightening. When a bolt or nut is overtightened, it can cause extra strain on the parts and can lead to permanent damage.
2. Don’t Leave Loose Parts Unattended: If any part of your tractor (such as the engine, differential, or transmission) is removed, it should be properly secured to prevent them from falling off and causing damage to other parts of the tractor. Loose parts can also become a safety hazard if handled carelessly.
3. Don’t Ignore Possible Leaks: If you detect a gasoline or oil leak on your tractor, it’s important to quickly identify the source and to take the necessary steps to repair it. Ignoring a potential leak can lead to further damage and even a potential fire hazard.
4. Don’t Forget to Change the Oil and Oil Filter: This may seem like a no-brainer, but it is often overlooked. Regular oil changes and oil filter changes are essential for keeping your tractor running smoothly, as well as extending the life of its engine.
5. Don’t Ignore Poorly Seating Plug Wires: If your plug wires are not properly seated, they can become corroded or even cause a spark that damages the engine. These should be checked often and replaced as needed to prevent any issues.
6. Don’t Forget to Check Brakes: Brakes are an essential component of your tractor, and they should be checked often. If your brakes feel spongy or unresponsive, they should be replaced immediately.
7. Don’t Leave Tires Unchecked: Tire pressure can vary over time, and incorrect tire pressure can damage your tractor or increase the chance of an accident. Before operating your tractor, make sure all your tires are properly inflated and in good condition.
8. Don’t Neglect the Battery: Regularly charging and maintaining your tractor battery will ensure it is functioning correctly and will extend its lifespan. Be sure to check your battery fluid levels and terminals often to make sure everything is in order.
9. Don’t Over Tighten Hydraulic Lines: Hydraulic systems require flexible lines that are not clamped too tightly. If these lines are overtightened, they can cause a loss of hydraulic pressure or even damage the lines themselves.
10. Don’t Ignore Unusual Sounds: If you notice any strange or loud noises coming from your tractor, it’s important to investigate this immediately. These noises may indicate a serious problem that needs to be addressed, and ignoring them could put your tractor and possibly yourself in danger.
Taking the time to regularly inspect and maintain your tractor is essential for keeping it running in top condition. Adopting these ‘don’ts’ will help to ensure that your tractor stays in perfect working order for many years.
