DIY Tractor Maintenance Tips
To ensure your tractor has a long and healthy lifespan, you have to take good care of it. That means taking the time out to perform some simple DIY tractor maintenance. Some service becomes essential if your tractor has been in storage and you’re going to be using it after a gap. We discussed some tractor maintenance steps earlier, which you can check out here.
As your local tractor dealer, we at Magnum Power want to help you take good care of your equipment so we’ve gathered some tips below. If you’re looking for tractor service or repair in Lawson, MO, contact us and one of our expert technicians will help you out! We also have a wide selection of tractors for sale near Clay County and Kansas City!
Fluids Inspection
Sometimes the fluids in your farm equipment can become condensed, so you have to check the engine, transmission and hydraulic fluid chambers. Don’t skip this step because it’s important that all the fluids remain free of any water. This can lead to overheating or cause some part to malfunction.
Tighten Belts
Sometimes when tractors are left unused, the elements wreak havoc on the belts. They can become brittle and cracked. If you spot any signs of wear and tear (like stretching or cracks) you should replace the belt. You need to do this in order to prevent any belt from snapping midway through work and causing damage to the tractor’s interiors.
Test Brakes
Since your tractor is a heavy, powerful and sturdy vehicle, its brakes must be in top shape at all times. You should check the brakes periodically and definitely when the machine has been lying around unused. Brakes can develop rust, which will affect performance. Before you start to use your tractor, make sure the brakes are functioning correctly, and check both left and right ones individually.
Charge Battery
If the batteries in your tractor were left unattended in storage, they have drained completely and may not have any juice left to deliver power. You can try connecting the battery to a charger and leaving it for a few hours. If the battery can’t hold any charge, you might have to replace it. A jump start should be the last resort. Make sure the cable connectors are secure.
Replace Filters
The fuel filter prevents even small debris and particles from making their way into your engine so it's an important part of tractor maintenance. Maintaining this will increase the life of your engine and prevent expensive repairs. You should clean or change the filter as the need arises. Other filters that need your attention are the air filter, oil filter, and hydraulic filter.
Check Hydraulics
To check the hydraulic oil levels, you’re going to need a dipstick. You’ll also probably need to extend the hydraulics systems fully but do check your manual to find the proper way to maintain hydraulics. If you switched to a lighter oil during winter, make sure you switch back to a summer oil. Check the hoses for any leaks or cracks.
Grease Bearings
If your model is a 2-wheel drive, raise the two front wheels and check the bearings. Remove the wheel and bearing nut and, if it looks okay, apply a coat of bearing grease and place it back, tightening it enough to avoid any wobbling. If the bearing looks like it might fall apart, you have to replace it. The number on the bearing frame will help you find the right replacement.
Hopefully, this information will help you take better care of your machine! For more help or if you’re looking for tractors for sale in Lawson, MO, get in touch with us at Magnum Power and chat with one of our helpful staff. If you’re looking for tractor service and repair near Clay County or Kansas City, contact our trained technicians for further assistance!