10 Tips To Get Your Equipment Ready for Spring

Though our South Texas winters aren’t typically the picturesque, snow-covered scenes of our neighbors to the north, your tractor has likely been a little less utilized than usual the past few months. The end of winter means it’s about time to get that tractor back to work. Before you climb back in, however, you should take care of a few basic maintenance tasks and safety checks. Here are our top recommendations to get you up and running again smoothly.

1. Tractor Spa Day

Start with the basics: wash it, clean it, wax it. It's more than just aesthetics, though; a good clean and seal will protect your tractor's exterior from rust, corrosion and buildup. Also be sure to grease fittings, check for loose bolts on the loader frame, on the wheels, etc.

2. Address Known Issues

Fix what you know is broken or needs attention. A small problem now is just waiting to become a much bigger problem later (and usually at the worst possible moment). So take care of those little issues now while they're still small.

3. Fill Fuel Tank Completely

Plastic tanks can trap condensation; you don't want the possibility of any water getting into the engine or the fuel lines. Also check for algae (again, caused by water in the tank). Be sure to use a biocide (such as Biobor) if needed, and regularly use fuel conditioner.

4. Check Maintenance Schedule

See your owner's manual for your tractor's filter and fluid replacement schedule. If you are getting close to the recommended number of hours for a change, go ahead and do it now while you have the time.

5. Fully Charge Battery

Before you begin your springtime projects, be sure to fully charge your battery. Also, clean your battery's surfaces and terminals; voltage can travel through dirt, dust and moisture on the battery and drain the charge

6. Check Hydraulics

One of the most critical checks you can do is to be sure to check your hydraulic fluid level and replace older oil with the correct oil. Check hoses for cracks and seals; check the hydraulic movement to make sure everything moves smoothly and to make sure cylinders stay in their extended positions.

7. Check Tires

As you would with a car, check the air pressure in your tires and look for weak spots or for any signs of wear. If you have dualies, check both inner and outer tires. If a tire needs repair, it's a lot easier to take it in now than it would be in the middle of a project.

8. Check Wiring

Give all your wiring a visual inspection to make sure there is no obvious damage or fraying (be especially vigilant that there is no rodent damage as this can be pretty common). Also make sure that all your lights are working properly.

9. Check Brakes

Check your hand brake for stopping and holding power Also, if you have separate left and right brakes, test them individually. Brakes working only on one side are much more likely to cause a rollover accident.

10. Examine All Attachments

Visually inspect your attachments before you begin to use them this spring. Sharpen any blades that need it; if there is a gear box, check the fluids and top them off with the appropriate lube.

Winter has likely been your equipment’s off-season, but warmer days mean your tractor’s to-do list will be getting longer. Take some time to run through this checklist. Make sure your tractor is in good shape now, and you’ll be ready to tackle any job at the turn of a key this spring.