Summer Tractor Maintenance Tips
For most farmers, summer is the perfect time to prepare your equipment for the busy harvest season ahead. Take care to give your tractor all the attention it needs before you kick things into high gear. That includes routine maintenance along with a thorough inspection to identify and address any repair needs. The following guide walks you through the basics of tractor maintenance.
If your tractor needs servicing, you can always rely on the trained technicians at Spartan Intimidator. We proudly serve the farming community in Southeast Arkansas. You can find us in Monticello, AR.
Freshen Up the Fuel Tank
If the tank contains any leftover fuel from last season, drain the excess and refill the tank with a fresh supply. While you are checking the fuel, you should also gauge the other fluid levels. Top off the coolant, along with the engine or hydraulic oil, as needed. These fluids are all necessary to keep the transmission lubricated and protect the engine from overheating.
Inspect and Clean the Battery
When your tractor sits idle for a long period of time, the battery can discharge, which can overtax the alternator and sometimes lead to engine failure. If your battery is low on juice, charge it up with a high-powered charger. You should also examine the electrical connections for breakage, grease residue, or corrosion, and give the battery a thorough cleaning if needed. A healthy battery will take stress off the alternator, so it can keep a full charge while your tractor is working.
Inspect the Tires
Inspect your tractor tires for cracks in the rubber. If your tires show significant wear, you will probably want to replace them right away to avoid the hassle of a flat tire or blowout. You should also check the air pressure in your tires. If the pressure gauge is low, use a compression machine to inflate the tires to the proper level.
Check Belts for Cracking
Your tractor relies on drive belts to power all of its internal functions, and faulty drive belts are going to have a major impact on overall performance. Examine the belts for weather damage, rotting, and slippage, and replace them if necessary. You can do this manually in most cases, but if your belts are in really bad shape, you might want to hire a professional.
Sharpen Blade Attachments
Keep in mind that your tractor attachments need regular maintenance, too. Blades in particular can get dull or rusty over time. You can sharpen your own blade attachments using a grinder, but many tractor operators choose to have a professional technician handle this task for them.
We hope you found these tips helpful! If you have any questions about tractor maintenance, don’t hesitate to ask the experts at Spartan Intimidator. We welcome our neighbors from Wilmar, AR, and Warren, AR.
