5 tractor maintenance tips for the summer

The performance of your farm equipment in high season depends on keeping you out of season.
Image courtesy of Nelson Tractor Co.

For most farmers summer is the perfect time to prepare the equipment for another season. This includes maintenance of the tractor from routine inspections to major repairs or replacement work. Regardless of the tractor's reliability, you must ensure that all parts function properly for safe and efficient operation.

Over time, the batteries can corrode, liquids can enter the motor and normal wear occurs. So, if you start servicing your tractor this summer, you should not neglect these important areas if you want to plan a successful harvest season.

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Here are 5 basic tips for maintaining the tractor.

1. Fill the tank with new fuel

If the tank contains fuel residues during the winter months, drain this excess and fill the tank with a fresh water source. This minimizes the risk of accumulation of condensation in the engine, allowing for smoother operation. When checking the quality of the fuel, it is also a good idea to evaluate other fluid levels. If necessary, be sure to top up with more coolant and hydraulic or engine oil to lubricate the gearbox, reduce moisture, and protect the engine from overheating.

2. Check and clean the battery

If the tractor has been idle for a long time, the battery is often discharged, which may overload the alternator and in some cases cause engine damage. If the battery level is low, check it with a high performance charger. Also check the electrical connections for cracks, grease or corrosion, and if necessary, perform a thorough cleaning. If the battery is operated at an optimum level, the alternator will not be energized, so you can maintain a full charge while operating the tractor.

3. Evaluate the condition of the tires

Check the cracks in the rubber and make sure that the air pressure is constant. If the gauge is low, inflate the tire with a compression machine. In heavy wear you should replace one or more tires. It's worth investing to avoid the safety risk of a punctured tire, or worse, a complete rash.

4. Sharpen the blade attachments

The maintenance of the tractor not only applies to the vehicle itself, but also to the accessories, especially if the tractor is also used as a lawnmower. The blades may become opaque or rusty over time, so it is important to periodically clean and sharpen them. This maintenance is simple and requires only cutting the blade and then polishing the blunt edge with a sander. If you do not have a grinding wheel, you can grind it in a car repair shop or a hardware store. If the blade stops working, replace it with a new one.

5. Check the belts for cracks

To maximize the life of the tractor, it is important that the drive belts operate properly as the machine will provide all internal functions with belts. If the belts are damaged, the alternator, hydraulic pumps, battery charge, cutting blades, and other properties are also affected. Examine the belts for abrasion, wear, slippage, and malfunction, and replace if necessary. In most cases, this can be done manually. However, if you are very rude, you may need professional help.

It's not because I do not use the tractor so much in the summer that it requires less care and attention. Investing in machine health can save you time, money and long-term frustration.

Will Nelson is the president of the Nelson Tractor Company , which is located in northeastern Georgia. Here you will find all the stories of the authors.

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