Safety Tips for First-Time Tractor Owners

Learning to operate a tractor can be a tough job. There are a ton of controls, rules, and protocols to learn, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the information. However, tractor safety is one of the most important lessons you’ll learn as a first-time driver, and you’ll want to study the basics very carefully. For a short introduction to tractor safety and some of its best practices, be sure to read our article below!

Inspect Your Tractor

Tractor malfunctions can be extremely dangerous, so it’s important to always inspect your equipment before hopping in the cab and starting it up. To start, we advise taking a quick walk around your tractor and keeping an eye out for any signs of puddles or leaking fluids. While you’re down there, we also recommend giving your wheels or tracks a once-over. Double-check that there are no obvious damages and that there is still plenty of air in both tires. If your tractor has any attachments, be sure they’re still safely attached to your machine, and that there are no loose nuts or bolts. If everything checks out, feel free to climb into the cab, adjust your mirrors, and start up your engine. 

Avoid Roll-Overs 

A tractor rollover is one of the most common ways people damage their machinery, as a tractor’s high center of gravity makes it incredibly easy to flip backward or even on its side. To avoid a backward rollover, do your best to avoid steep inclines or sloping terrain that could cause your machine to lose its grip and slip on its back. To avoid side roll-overs you’ll need to keep an eye out for large obstacles that appear in your path, and carefully maneuver around them at an even speed. Make sure not to turn sharply, or accelerate suddenly, as it’s likely to turn your machine onto its side. 

Looking for more helpful tractor-driving advice or safety tips? Come visit us here at Magnum Power and speak with one of our expert staff! They’ll be happy to answer any of your tractor questions, offer advice, and even make recommendations based on your unique preferences or situations. If you’re located nearby in Clay County or Kansas City, feel free to visit us here in Lawson, Missouri for any of your tractor needs!