It may have been a while since you last did a big day on the tractor, but getting into the habit of a quick pre-check is a great way to familiarise yourself with your machine and prevent any maintenance issues. Here’s a 3 step list of things to check before you hit the ignition key.
1: 360 VISUAL CHECK
Do a quick 360 degree walk around the tractor and check for anything out of place, such as loose brackets, bolts, wires, hoses, oil leaks etc and while you're at it, poke your head underneath to look for anything unusual.
2: FLUID CHECK
Fluids are the life blood of a tractor so grab a rag and let's go…..
1. Start with the Engine Oil by checking it is at the indicated level on the dip stick. While you're there, visually check the engine for loose items or leaks. Also check the belts on the front of the engine for tension and degradation.
2. While at the pointy end of the tractor, remove the radiator cap and check the Coolant. You want the coolant level above the fins inside the tank and just below the filler neck of the radiator. You can also check the clear bottle connected to the radiator, this is the over flow tank (some tractors don’t have one). The coolant should be between the two level indicators. Also check the radiator for dust and grass blockages. Remember that cooling systems are extremely hot, so it's best to check coolant level when the machine is cold.
3. Usually on top of the engine is the Air Filter, remove the air filter and give it a tap out to remove the dust. Also check the pipes attached to the filter housing are secure.
4. Walk to the rear of the tractor and check the Transmission Oil. The dip stick or sight glass is usually located at the rear or on top of the transmission housing. Top up if necessary. Note: some bigger compact tractors will also have separate oil compartments on each wheel, so check the manual.
5. The last oil compartment on the tractor is the Front Axle Housing Oil, you will usually find a dipstick on top, or a level plug on the front or back of the axle.
6. Grease! It’s lovely stuff. Most manufacturers recommend greasing the tractor and loader every 10 hours, so check the manual to find all those hidden pesky grease nipples.
NOTE: Don’t forget that attachments need love too, so if you have an implement attached (like a slasher or mower deck) it's a good time to visually check it and check the dip stick for the Gear Box Oil if it has one.
3: TYRES PRESSURE CHECK
Tyre pressure is often neglected, but having correct tyre pressure will make your compact tractor perform safer and better. Just a slight difference in pressure from left to right can cause your whole front end loader to sit crooked. Uneven tyre pressure can also increase the risk of a roll over, which is never ideal.
For regular 4 ply compact tractor tyres we usually run 23 psi in the front and 14 psi in the rear, of course always follow your manufacturers specifications.
Once you get into the habit of performing these 3 basic checks, you will start to form a familiar bond with your tractor and you will notice quickly if something needs attention.
Happy operating!
Zac
Interco Small Tractors