Summer Maintenance ground to ensure accurate readings. Maintaining proper fluid levels is also essential for regulating the temperature of your machine in the summer heat. Since utility tractors often feature larger engines than compact models, they require more oil and more frequent checks.
• Grease the loader and pivot points If your tractor is equipped with a loader or other moving implements, don’ t skip greasing the arms and pivot points. Lubrication reduces wear and supports smooth operation under heavy loads.
• Maintain proper clutch adjustments It’ s also wise to inspect the clutch pedal and ensure it ' s properly adjusted. A misaligned or loose footplate can cause unnecessary wear and even damage, especially with frequent use.
• Use clean fuel Heat can cause fuel to burn faster and can also lead to condensation in fuel containers and tanks, allowing water to enter the fuel system. When fueling your machine, always use clean, fresh fuel and keep your fuel containers tightly sealed. If the containers are not regularly cleaned, fuel quality can degrade, affecting machine performance. Regularly check fuel filters for signs of water or contamination.
Watch Out for Machine Wear Points
Some parts of your tractor experience more stress than others, and summer conditions only intensify the strain.
Pay extra attention to these common wear points.
• Tires
Hot surfaces, heavy loads and uneven terrain can wear tires out faster in the summer. Front tires tend to show wear more quickly, so they need to be checked more frequently. Replace any tires with less than 50 % tread or visible signs of cracking and brittleness or discoloration.
• Engine and Transmission
These components are often the most expensive to repair and the hardest working, so it’ s vital to keep them properly serviced. Keep the exterior clean to spot leaks early. Change fluids at the
The best way to ensure the longevity of your machine is to perform a daily maintenance check.
recommended intervals and watch for signs of overheating or performance drops. Dirty fluids and inadequate cooling can shorten their lifespan. Additionally, utility tractor transmissions are more complex than those on compact machines, since they often handle heavier workloads, requiring more frequent inspections.
• Power Take-off( PTO) System The PTO system does a lot of heavy lifting in the summer, especially if running implements like rotary cutters or balers. It doesn’ t follow a strict service schedule, so base maintenance on performance, hours and workloads. Inspect it regularly for leaks, wear and cracked components. Also, make sure hoses and wires are secure, and listen for unusual noises like grinding or knocking while in use.
Don’ t Forget Your Resources
Your tractor operator manual is an invaluable resource, outlining service intervals, fluid specifications and routine maintenance for your tractor. Take the time to review it and always keep it nearby.
If you’ re unsure about a maintenance task or spot a potential problem, don’ t hesitate to call your dealer. Many offer maintenance support or even hands-on demonstrations. When it comes to more complex repairs, turning to experts can save time, money and prevent further damage.
Summer is no time for downtime. With a strong maintenance routine, you can reduce the risk of breakdowns and keep your utility tractor operating at full strength when it matters most.
July 2025 | www. FarmersHotLine. com | 11