The Simple Guide to Summer Tractor Maintenance

We want to share information on how to maintain your tractor during the hot summer farming season.

And as a quick aside --- we are here to help you purchase a new tractor, parts and implements when the time is right.    

Let’s get started.

Introduction

Summer is a great time to prepare your tractor and equipment for a productive season.

This includes tractor maintenance.  Everything from routine inspections to the major repairs and replacements.

No matter how dependable your tractor has been --- you still need to make sure all the parts are in working order for safety and efficiency.

Batteries might corrode.  Fluids can seep and leak into the engine.  And of course there is all the regular wear and tear.

Do not ignore or overlook these important areas.  You need to plan for a successful harvest season.

Here are a few basic tractor maintenance tips to perform…

Check All Your Tractor Belts for Cracks

It is crucial for the drive belts to be in perfect working order. 

Your tractor relies on its belts to power all the internal functions.  When the belts are compromised --- the alternator, hydraulic pumps, battery charge, cutting blades, and the other features are affected.

Inspect and examine the belts regularly for weather abrasion, rotting, slippage, and malfunctioning.  Replace them right away if necessary.

In most cases, you can replace them yourself.  Consult your service manual.  If they are in extremely rough shape, you might need professional assistance.

Inspect Your Tires

Inspect your tires for cracks in the rubber.  This is super important as tires can blow out in an instant.    

Ensure the air pressure is at a consistent level.  If the tire pressure gauge shows low pressure, then inflate the tire with a compression machine.

If there is significant wear on a tire, you need to replace it right away.

The investment is worth avoiding a flat tire or a dangerous blowout.

Sharpen All Blade Attachments

Tractor maintenance also to the attachment pieces.

Blades can become dull and rusty over time.  It is important to clean and sharpen them on a regular basis.

This upkeep is simple.  It requires detaching the blade.  Then using a grinder to polish the blunt edge.

If you do not own a grinding wheel --- you can have the blades sharpened at an automotive repair or hardware store.

If the blade is no longer functional --- swap it out for a new one.

Inspect and Clean the Battery

When the tractor has been idle for an extended time --- the battery will often discharge.  This can overtax the alternator and lead to engine failure.

If the battery is low, you might be able to revive it with a high-powered charger.

Examine the electrical connections for fractures, grease residue, or corrosion.  Give them a thorough cleaning.

If the battery is functioning at an optimum level --- this will take stress off the alternator.  This means the battery can maintain a full charge while the tractor is operating.

Add New Fuel

If your tank has leftover fuel inside it from the winter months --- drain it.

Fill the tank with new fuel.

This minimizes the risk of condensation building up in the engine.  This will lead to a smoother running engine.

And while you’re checking the fuel quality --- it is also a good idea to inspect the other fluid levels.

If needed --- add more coolant and engine or hydraulic oil.  They are essential for keeping the transmission lubricated.  They also will reduce the amount of moisture and protect the engine from overheating.

Remember --- that just because you might not be using your tractor as much during the summer --- doesn’t mean that it requires less attention and care.

Investing in the health of your machinery will save you time, money, and frustration.  It will also keep you far more productive.

Hopefully, this brief article has helped you better understand how to maintain your tractor throughout the summer season.

If you need any further help or have any questions about summer maintenance, tractors, implements, or anything else equipment-related, 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.