Performing Tractor Maintenance

Regular maintenance is the key to making your tractor perform better and last longer. Unfortunately, not all tractor owners know the basics of tractor maintenance. That is why the experts at Magnum Power have created this basic guide.

Consult the Owner's Manual

Your owner’s manual is an invaluable source of information about your tractor and how to keep it running well. Be sure to read it carefully and follow its advice concerning which tasks need to be performed when, and which products are safe to use. 

Engine Oil

The inside of your tractor is full of moving parts that are constantly rubbing up against each other. Engine oil helps to lubricate these components so that nothing gets damaged in the process, which is why you should check your oil from time to time. Don’t just go in with the dipstick, though. Run your engine for a few minutes, shut it off, and then wait for a few more minutes before checking if the oil looks sludgy or discolored. If the oil is normal, you can just top it off, but if something is wrong then you should replace the oil and the filter. 

Radiator Fluid

The best way to prevent your tractor from overheating is by checking the coolant levels and topping them off when they get low. If your tractor seems to be going through coolant more quickly than it should, monitor your coolant levels throughout the day. You may have just discovered a much deeper issue. 

Tires

Check your tractor’s tires for excessive tread wear, and do what you can to keep the tire pressure within the manufacturer-recommended range. In certain situations, you may need to adjust the tire pressure. For example, decreasing the pressure will make tilling easier, while increasing it will give you more grip on paved roads. 

Fuel

If your tractor is left idle for too long, water can separate from the fuel tank and damage your engine – you should add a fuel stabilizer to the tank if your tractor goes unused for a week or more. Don’t forget to add this fuel stabilizer to your backup fuel supply!

For more information or to shop tractors, visit Magnum Power online or at our dealership in Lawson, Missouri. We are proud to serve the Clay County, Missouri area, as well as communities like Kansas City, Missouri. We also offer servicing, parts ordering, financing, and trade-ins, so visit us for all your farm equipment needs.