Tips for Making the Most of Your Tractor Parts
Tractors are heavy pieces of equipment, and they can seem indestructible. But anyone who has operated a tractor extensively can tell you that these machines require constant upkeep to stay in good working order. Tractors have many components that need to be replaced at regular intervals, and many more that can become irreparably damaged if not properly maintained. Tractor parts are not inexpensive, so preventive maintenance is necessary to protect your bottom line.
The following tips can help you prolong the service life of your tractor parts, so you can save money on repairs and spend more time working. If you have any questions about tractor maintenance, feel free to ask the experts here at West Hills Tractor. You can shop a wide selection of farm equipment parts at our dealership in Jonesborough, TN.
Take Advantage of Your Operating Manual
The operating manual provided with your tractor is your most valuable resource when it comes to maintenance. This volume will contain detailed maintenance instructions, and specify which parts and products are compatible with your tractor. Keep it handy when operating your tractor, and bring your manual to the dealership when you need to purchase replacement parts.
Store Your Tractor Properly
When your tractor is not in use, especially during the winter months, it should be protected from the elements. The best storage option is a well-insulted barn or shed. If your storage area is not fully weatherproof, you can protect your tractor with a breathable cover. The goal here is to prevent corrosion, so you don’t want to use plastic or other materials that will trap moisture.
Stay on Top of Regular Maintenance
Inspect each component of your tractor on a regular basis, so that you can catch any potential problems before they start interfering with performance. Some routine tasks that should not be overlooked include cleaning the radiator, replacing the air and fuel filters, and adjusting the tire pressure. You should also check the tractor ballast to ensure it’s operating correctly. Remember that one faulty component can affect your whole tractor, and lead to more costly problems down the road if not addressed right away.
Work in the Mornings and Evenings
In the summer months, the high temperatures at midday can overheat your tractor’s engine. Overheating will put undue stress on your tractor parts, causing them to degrade at a faster rate. You can avoid this problem altogether by operating your tractor in the mornings and evenings, when the weather is cooler.
Keep Idle Time to a Minimum
If your tractor will be sitting unused for several minutes in the middle of your workday, make sure to turn off the engine. This simple step will give your tractor a chance to cool off and recuperate, and give your tractor parts a much-needed break.
Use High-Quality Parts
When your tractor parts need replacement, make sure to stick with genuine OEM parts recommended by your manufacturer. These products may cost more upfront than knockoff versions, but you are likely to save more in the long run on repairs and maintenance with higher-quality products.
Looking for tractor parts for sale near Johnson City, TN? Head over to West Hills Tractor. Our inventory includes a wide variety of ag equipment parts. We welcome customers all the way from Greeneville, TN.