Getting Your Tractor Ready For Spring
Proper maintenance is essential for your tractor’s good health and longevity so it’s important to take the time to perform it periodically. During the winter months, however, even if we continue to use our tractors, a lot of us leave the maintenance tasks for warmer months. If your tractor spent winter in storage, then maintenance becomes even more important before you put it to work.
To help your tractor shake off the winter and get ready for all the work ahead, we at RECO Equipment have compiled these maintenance steps. If you’re looking for tractors for sale in Ohio, Indiana or Pennsylvania, get in touch with our sales department for further assistance. We’re also here for all your tractor parts and service needs!
Fluids Inspection
Winter may have condensed the fluids in your tractor, so you need to check the engine, transmission, and hydraulic fluid chambers. It might seem unimportant but your fluids need to be free of any water. If you run your tractor on impure fluids, it can cause your machine to overheat quickly or to suffer a parts malfunction.
Tighten Belts
Prolonged cold weather can wreak havoc on your tractor belts, causing them to become cracked and brittle. If you notice any damage or wear and tear, like cracks or stretching, you’ll have to replace the belts. This is important because it will prevent a potential belt snap, which can lead to serious damage to the tractor’s interior parts.
Test Brakes
Your tractor is a big and powerful machine, so we don’t have to tell you that it’s crucial for its brakes to function properly. When left unused for a long period of time, brakes can develop rust, which affects their 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 you left your batteries in storage throughout winter, they’ve probably drained completely and have no juice left to start your tractor. You can connect the battery to a charger and let it sit 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 Fuel
If you didn’t add fuel stabilizer before storing your tractor, you’ll have to replace the fuel in spring. This is more important for gas than diesel but it’s good to do this if your fuel has become thick, has metal flakes, has any contaminants or has turned dark. Drain out all the old fuel and fill the tank with fresh fuel. You should dispose of your old fuel properly.
Replace Filters
The fuel filter on your tractor is actually very important because it prevents even small debris and particles from making its way into your engine. 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
You’ll need a dipstick to check the hydraulic oil levels, for which you’ll most probably have to extend the hydraulics fully. 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 tractor is a 2-wheel drive, lift the two front wheels to 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.
We hope these tips help you get your machine spring ready! If you’d like to know more or want to check out tractors for sale in Ohio, Indiana or Pennsylvania, contact RECO Equipment and have a chat with one of our expert staff. We also have a team of trained technicians ready for all your tractor service and repair needs!