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What Are 6 Periodic Maintenance Practices on Farm Tractors?

Keeping your farm tractor in top shape requires regular maintenance. Staying on top of periodic checks helps prevent breakdowns, extends the lifespan of your equipment, and ensures peak performance during critical farming seasons.

1. Engine Oil and Filter Change

Regular oil changes keep your tractor’s engine running smoothly by reducing wear and tear on moving parts. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for oil type and change intervals, typically every 100-250 hours of operation.

What to do?

Pro tip: Neglecting oil changes can lead to engine overheating and costly repairs.

2. Air Filter Cleaning/Replacement

Dust and debris can clog the air filter, reducing engine efficiency and increasing fuel consumption. A clean air filter ensures proper airflow, which is critical for combustion.

Maintenance Routine

Real-world tip: Farmers working in dry, dusty fields should inspect air filters more frequently to avoid clogging.

3. Cooling System Check

Overheating is a common issue in tractors, especially during heavy-duty operations. The cooling system, including the radiator and coolant, must be checked regularly.

Steps to maintain

Did you know? A well-maintained cooling system prevents engine overheating and prolongs tractor life.

4. Hydraulic System Maintenance

The hydraulic system powers implements and attachments, making it crucial to keep it in top condition. Low or dirty hydraulic fluid can affect performance and lead to component failure.

What you should do?

Contaminated hydraulic fluid can damage sensitive components, so always use clean fluid.

5. Tire Inspection and Pressure Adjustment

Proper tire maintenance improves traction, fuel efficiency, and overall safety. Under-inflated tires increase fuel consumption and reduce load-carrying capacity.

Maintenance practices

– Check tire pressure regularly and adjust according to load and terrain.
– Inspect tires for cracks, cuts, and uneven wear.
– Rotate tires periodically for even wear.

Proper inflation is crucial for minimizing soil compaction in fields.

6. Battery Maintenance

A well-maintained battery ensures reliable starts and uninterrupted operation, especially in colder months. Corrosion or a weak charge can lead to downtime.

Battery maintenance tips

– Clean terminals to prevent corrosion.
– Check electrolyte levels (for non-sealed batteries).
– Keep the battery fully charged, especially during off-season storage.

A weak battery can fail at the worst times, so regular checks are essential.

A technician performs routine maintenance on a tractor, ensuring optimal performance and longevity of the machinery.
About Author
Sally
Cropilots Sales Director

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