Performing Tractor Maintenance

If you are a busy farmer, the last thing you want is to have your work schedule disrupted by a sudden mechanical failure. Waiting days or even weeks for a tractor to be repaired can mean time and money down the drain. The best way to stave the need for major repairs is by being diligent about small ones. Luckily, M2 Outdoor has created this list of important tractor maintenance tips to keep you ahead of the curve.

1. Consult the Owner's Manual

You should always start by reading your owner's manual. It can provide valuable insight into what kinds of tasks will be required, what the timeline will be for those tasks, and whether you will be able to use specific products or not.

2. Radiator Fluid

Engine overheating is a common tractor maintenance concern. The best way to keep your tractor’s engine from overheating is to check your radiator fluid daily and top it off when necessary. While gradually losing fluid over time is normal, needing to replace large amounts on a daily basis may indicate a deeper problem. If this starts to happen, start checking the fluid levels throughout your day. If you discover an issue, schedule a service appointment as soon as possible. 

3. Engine Oil

Engine oil is important because it prevents your tractor’s parts from scraping against each other and causing damage. You should check your engine oil regularly. However, it is important that you know the correct way to do so. Before you check your oil, run your tractor for a few minutes and then shut it off. Wait a few minutes more with the engine off, and then check the oil. If you find that the oil is sludgy or discolored, it is time to replace the oil and filter. If it looks fine, simply top off the oil. 

4. Tires

Tires are an important but often overlooked part of tractor maintenance. Tires not inflated to the right level can lead to damage or even an accident. Luckily, you can quickly and easily measure the air pressure with a tire pressure gauge. Finding the range in which the tire pressure is supposed to fall is even easier, as it can be found printed on the tire wall, on the manufacturer's website, and in your owner's manual.

Sometimes you may choose to slightly adjust the tire pressure to match the task at hand. For example, adding extra pressure can allow a tractor to better hold firm on a sturdy surface like a paved road. Try decreasing the pressure by a few pounds when you are tilling. When loading, add more pressure to the front tires and add more pressure to the rear tires when hauling a heavy load. 

5. Fuel

Under normal circumstances, your main concern when it comes to fuel and your tractor is making sure that the vehicle has enough. However, if your tractor is idle for more than a week, you should add a fuel stabilizer to the tank. This will help prevent water from collecting or separating out of the fuel, which can cause rust or engine damage. Don’t forget to add a fuel stabilizer to any backup fuel.

We here at M2 Outdoor hope this guide has been helpful to you. If you are experiencing tractor maintenance problems, visit our dealership in Kennett, Missouri, or our other location in Dexter. We have parts, servicing, and accessory departments on hand to help you diagnose and fix your tractor’s mechanical problems. We welcome visitors from around the Missouri Bootheel, as well as those from communities like Essex and Bloomfield, Missouri.