Summer is a critical time that has a significant influence on a farmer’s harvest. And if a farmer’s tools and equipment are kept in ideal conditions, this pushes the winds towards a productive harvest.
One of the most important pieces of equipment that a farmer has is their tractor. And to keep farming operations running smoothly throughout the summer, here are the best ways you can maintain it:
1. Replace and repair parts
Before summer rolls around, inspect your tractor for any possible internal and external issues. Repair any faulty components or replace them with new ones (if they are unsalvageable) by looking for spare parts, such as high-quality plough parts for sale. In this way, you can decrease the chances of ending up with a faulty tractor in the middle of the summer heat.
2. Replace fluids
If there is any leftover fuel from the winter, replace the old fuel with new fuel to avoid engine condensation. The same goes for other fluids in the tractor, such as coolant, engine oil, and engine fluid. Failure to replace fuel and other fluids can cause moisture buildup in the tractor and cause poor hydraulic performance, among many other issues.
3. Check the battery
When a tractor has not been in use for a long while, the battery can discharge and lead to engine failure, which is something that you definitely do not want in the midst of summer. To avoid the battery in your tractor from discharging, re-charge the battery with a high-powered charger. Moreover, take the time to check battery connections and get rid of any grease, dirt, and debris that you may see.
4. Replace belts
Tractor belts can become worn, cracked, and faulty over time. Before summer comes, make sure to check your tractor’s belts and look for any signs of damage. If the belts are no longer in acceptable condition (e.g. rotten, cracked, malfunctioning), replace them before taking the tractor out on the field. Otherwise, these faulty belts can cause bigger problems when you start using your tractor.
Fortunately, you can easily replace belts by yourself. However, if the damage is extensive, it’s probably a better idea to seek a professional for help, especially if you have minimal experience with tractor maintenance.
5. Inflate or replace tires
If your tires have inconsistent air pressure, inflate them with a compression machine before putting the tractor to use. But if one or more of the tires have cracks or holes, replacing them is a better long-term solution.
As the summer progresses, check your tire pressure every so often. Because of the changing temperature, tires can lose or gain air pressure by 1psi for every 10F change in temperature, and this can cause inconsistencies in tire pressure.
6. Ensure proper lubrication
Grease all recommended grease points on your tractor and clear clogged zerks as you go along. If you don’t grease all the necessary parts, this can lead to increased wear and tear and eventual failure of your tractor’s components.
The summer heat can eventually put your tractor to the test. That said, these are the best maintenance tips you can use to prepare your tractor for the coming months, and ultimately, for the harvest season.
