Taylor's Transportation Blog

Although tractors are built for intensive work, they do require occasional maintenance to ensure that the tractor parts are all functioning at optimum. However, the maintenance steps that you take toward enhancing the lifespan of your tractor are not the same as those you would employ for your automobile. If you have recently purchased a tractor, here are some tips that can come in handy for the care and well-being of your equipment.

Get familiar with the owner's manual

The owner's manual is not simply a boring booklet that comes along with your machinery. It has equipment-specific instructions that typically depend on the manufacturer, rather than general tips to caring for all tractors. There are a few crucial aspects that you will need to familiarise yourself with from the owner's manual. These include:

• Your tractor's maintenance schedule: This information will include the frequency at which your tractor will require professional maintenance, frequency at which to lubricate its chassis, frequency for oil changes and more.
• Your tractor's specifications: There are an array of fluids that are in the market for heavy machinery. However, it is not advisable to simply pick the first fluid you come across and use it on your tractor. The owner's manual will explain which fluids should be used for the hydraulic system, the transmission system, the brake system, for the engine coolant and more.

Store you tractor under a shelter

Although tractors are built for heavy-duty outdoor work, they are not designed to weather extreme weather conditions. This is especially true for the smaller models that do not have a cabin to protect the instrumental panel, driver's seat and other metallic components of the tractor. Ensure the tractor is stored under a shelter when not in use, thus preventing undue weather damage to it. This will work toward prolonging its lifespan.

Inspect the tractor's hoses and belts

Tractors that have a hydraulic system will typically also have high-pressure tubing and hoses. In the event that these fluid conduits begin to malfunction, it will very readily lead to failure of the tractor's hydraulic pump, losing control of the steering and a host of other problems. As such, it is pertinent to carry out regular inspections on the hoses and belts of your tractor. If these tractor parts have acquired any cracks or other signs of damage, it is best to seek a professional consultation with a company such as Peninsula Truck Parts so as to determine whether they need to be repaired or replaced.