How Do I Prevent Costly Tractor Repairs?

With the price of tractor repairs, you will want to do everything you can to keep costs at a minimum.

The following are 10 tips to help keep tractor repair costs at an absolute minimum.   

TIP #1: Be sure to remove the old gasket or “O” ring from the filter bracket.  

You will want to do this the next time you change your oil.

If you do not remove the old gasket and you install a new one on top of it, you could be in for a real mess. 

When you have two “O” rings or gaskets on top of each other, they can suddenly blow out.  This can cause you to lose all your engine oil. It can take several hours or days before they blow out.  If you do not notice the leaking oil, it can result in a very costly repair.

TIP #2: Check your warning lights. 

To check the oil pressure light --- turn the key on with the engine not running.  You should see a red light with either a picture of an oil drop (with arrows indicating pressure), or the word “oil” written on it. 

As far as the temperature light… it will typically come on only when the tractor is overheating.  To check that bulb, you need to locate the temperature sender, usually at the top of the engine.  Then unhook the single wire going to it.  Next, find a non-painted, metal part on the engine and hold the wire to it.  You should see the "Temp" light come on.  Check these bulbs periodically.  Watch them when you operate the tractor.  This can prevent several costly issues.

TIP #3: Fill your fuel filter with clean diesel. 

This is done after a fuel filter change.

If a diesel engine has air in the fuel system, it can be extremely hard to start.

When you fill your fuel filter, it eliminates a great deal of air.  See your tractor model’s service manual for complete instructions.

TIP #4: Use clean diesel fuel from a sealed container.

Never use diesel fuel that has water in it.

Water is a diesel engine's worst enemy.  Any trace of water can permanently damage an injector pump.

TIP #5: Check hoses and fan belts. 

If you are looking for cheap insurance against a costly engine failure --- this is it!

Here are some examples:

• A cracked radiator hose can break.  This can cause your engine to overheat.
• A cracked, leaking air intake hose will allow dirt to get sucked into your tractor engine.
• Make sure your fan belt is not cracked.  Also make sure it is tight.  A loose or broken fan belt can cause your tractor to quickly overheat. 

Always keep in mind that an overheating tractor engine can be extremely expensive to repair.

TIP #6: Check your hydraulic filter or screen.

This will help ensure that your hydraulic pump and system keep working properly.

TIP #7: Oil your tractor’s steering box. 

Yes, the steering box needs oil.  

Without oil, the steering box can rust and cause it to break. 

TIP #8: Never over tighten bolts. 

Tiny metric bolts cannot handle a lot of torque.

A broken off bolt can be extremely hard to get out.

TIP #9: Grease everything.

Everything with a grease fitting must be greased. 

This will keep crucial parts from wearing out too soon.

TIP #10: Watch for nuances with your tractor.  

Be mindful of the little things that could turn into major issues. 

While operating your tractor --- watch for changes in sound, power, as well as how it drives.  Address any issues right away to keep repair costs to a minimum.

If you need any further help or have any questions about ways to save on tractor repairs, tractors, or anything else, please contact your dealer, local mechanic, or call us at 602-734-9944.  Please ask about our current new and used tractor supply.

If you are looking for old, vintage, classic, or new tractor parts, send us a part request.

Team Tractor Ranch - #1 Tractor Dealer in Arizona. We sell and service most major brands of tractors including Yanmar, Kubota, John Deere, TYM, Mahindra, Kioti, Case, New Holland, Massey Ferguson, Ford, Deutz, Case IH, Farmall, International Harvester, Branson Tractors, LS, Shibura, Claas Tractor, McCormick Tractors, Valtra, Solis, YTO, Montana, and Nortrac.