Farm tractors are extensively used across India for ploughing fields, tilling the soil, sowing seeds, spraying fertilisers and pesticides, harvesting crops, and transporting the produce. Their use has increased farm productivity and reduced labour requirements. Millions of tractors now assist farmers in cultivating crops across India’s massive agricultural lands.
Owning and operating a farm tractor is a big responsibility. Proper cleaning and maintenance are essential to keep the tractor running efficiently and reliably for years. This blog post explores the top 10 tips that tractor owners can consider when caring for their tractors properly.
Requirement of Cleaning and Maintenance
Tractors are complex and expensive machinery that form the backbone of many farming operations. Given the rough conditions they operate in (dust, dirt, mud, etc.), tractors tend to get dirty very quickly. The dirt and mud can damage crucial components if allowed to build up.
Additionally, a lack of routine maintenance can lead to premature wear and tear and unexpected breakdowns. These situations can be dreadful, especially during the peak sowing or harvesting seasons.
Proper cleaning can help remove abrasive substances stuck to the components, while regular upkeep can help identify and fix minor issues before they become major repair headaches. Keeping one’s tractor well-maintained isn’t difficult, but it does require some time and effort on a daily and weekly basis.
Tips for Cleaning Your Tractor
Here are 5 must-follow tips to keep the tractor clean:
1. Remove Debris with Compressed Air
Farmers should consider using an air compressor to blow out dust, chaff, and other loose debris from the exterior and hard-to-reach interior spots of their tractors. Paying special attention to the engine compartment, radiator screens, wheels, chassis, fenders, and step areas is crucial. Compressed air can efficiently dislodge the accumulated dirt.
2. Wash with Water & Detergent Using Brushes
Mix an all-purpose detergent in water and scrub the mud and grime-covered areas using brushes with soft bristles. Avoid using abrasive brushes or high-pressure washers, as they can damage the paintwork or sensitive components.
Thoroughly clean the wheels, undercarriage, PTO assembly, and other greasy areas. After washing, wash down the soap residue thoroughly. It is important to let all surfaces dry out completely before taking the tractor out for its next use.
3. Care for the Seats & Cabin
Vacuum the seats and cabin area to remove dust accumulation. Spot-clean the stains on the seat with soft cleaners and a cloth. Farmers can use disinfectants to sanitise and deodorise the seats and surrounding areas to keep them smelling fresh.
It is important to periodically deep clean the tractor cabin interior to prevent the buildup of allergens and microbes over time. Vacuuming alone may not remove the embedded dust and stains. A thorough scrubbing of the seating area followed by steam cleaning can effectively sanitise and refresh the seating area.
Farmers spending long hours operating their tractors can benefit from a clean and hygienic cabin environment. A quick wipe-down after every use can also prevent permanent stains and soiling of the fabrics of the seats of these tractors.
4. Check & Change Air Filters
Clean or replace clogged air filters immediately, which can restrict airflow and lead to suboptimal engine performance. Farmers should regularly consider using fuel additives and carbon removers to prevent carbon deposition around the filters.
Timely air filter maintenance is critical to ensuring optimal airflow to the engine combustion system. A clogged air filter can reduce engine power, increase fuel consumption, and lead to premature wear of engine components.
While cleaning air filters, farmers should thoroughly inspect them for signs of damage. A compromised air filter can allow dust particles to enter the engine.
5. Fix Small Leaks & Oil Spills
It is crucial to look for leaks, loose bolts, or small oil spills under the tractor and get them fixed. Even minor drips or spills can become worse if left unattended for a long time. Farm tractor owners should consider degreasing the leaked areas thoroughly before repairing them.
Experts highlight that even small leaks can signify bigger underlying problems. A small leak today can turn into a major and expensive repair tomorrow. Hence, it is prudent for farmers to periodically inspect their tractors for any signs of oil leakage and not neglect even minor leaks.
The leakage area must be thoroughly cleaned before attempting any repairs, as oil residue can impact adhesion and sealing. Timely repairs can enhance reliability and minimise overall maintenance costs in the long run.
Tips for Maintenance & Upkeep
Here are 5 maintenance tips for farm tractor owners:
1. Stick To Routine Service Schedules
Refer to the operator’s manual for your specific tractor model and diligently follow the recommended service schedule and maintenance checklist. Farmers should consider paying close attention to every critical aspect, whether it’s daily greasing routines, periodic oil changes, or fluid top-ups.
2. Inspect Tires & Air Pressure
It is crucial to examine tractor tyres, including the tread patterns, every week and top up the air if needed. Uneven tyre pressure can lead to higher fuel consumption. Ensure no foreign object is puncturing the rubber.
3. Check & Replace Worn Parts
Before taking the tractor to the farm, examine the engine compartment for leaks, damaged hoses, loose belts, or broken parts. Then, replace the air and oil filters and spark plugs according to the recommendations in the user manual.
4. Grease PTO, Hitch etc.
To prevent wear and corrosion, grease all grease fittings daily, including the PTO shaft, 3-point hitch, and other key pivot points. Experts recommend using lithium soap-based grease only.
5. Touch Up Paintwork
Look for paint chips, rust spots, or scratches on the metal surfaces and quickly touch them up using the right primer and paint. This can help farmers prevent moisture from seeping in and causing corrosion.
Conclusion
By following these tips diligently, one can expect to add years to their farm tractor’s lifespan. Spending an hour or two every week on cleaning and basic upkeep can go a long way in avoiding expensive repairs down the line.
It can be better to use checklists to ensure one doesn’t miss any maintenance routine. Farmers should consider investing in quality brushes, compressed air kits, detergents, greases, filters and spare parts to service their tractors. Importantly, having basic mechanical skills can help one spot issues early.
Since tractors are the most vital equipment for one’s farm, keeping them in the best condition through regular maintenance becomes very important. This can help farmers improve productivity and reduce unexpected downtime during critical farming activities.