Use this farm tractor maintenance guide to schedule maintenance for your tractor.
Since hundreds of different tractor models from a score of different manufacturers might find their way to any small farm or acreage, it is imperative to obtain an operator’s manual for your particular machine. Check your dealer, online resources and even eBay to find them if the machine is long out of production. The operator’s manual will include important information regarding safe tractor operation, hitch and hydraulic capacities, and will provide detailed maintenance information including schedules for performing various tasks.
There is no substitute for the manual, but the following farm tractor maintenance guide will give you a place to start.
- Every use, check engine oil level; check hydraulic system(s) oil level(s); inspect tires for damage or wear; check coolant level; check seat belt; walk around tractor looking for damage, oil leaks, worn or damaged belts, worn or damaged hoses. Correct problems as required.
- Every 50 hours, clean radiator screen if equipped; check and adjust tire pressure; check all switches; check all lights, especially if the tractor hasn’t been run at night recently; check Roll Over Protection System mount and hinge bolts. Correct problems as required.
Hank Will raises hair sheep, heritage cattle and many varieties of open-pollinated corn with his wife, Karen, on their rural Osage County, Kansas farm. His home life is a perfect complement to his professional life as editor in chief at GRIT and Capper’s Farmer magazines.
