Not much can happen on so many farms without a tractor. In this article we explain how to maintain the tractor properly, which aspects of maintenance deserve special attention and how a regularly maintained tractor can ensure high profitability and lead to even more safety.

This much is certain: the tractor has to be operational. If it fails because of poor maintenance and care, then good, sound advice can often be expensive, and not only in the high season. And: a well-maintained tractor is not only safer and more efficient, but it also has a longer service life and scores high with increased levels of profitability being achieved.

The first step to taking optimum care of the tractor is to follow the recommended maintenance intervals. After just a quick glance at the manual, it is easy to find out how often certain inspections and maintenance work should be carried out. Some of the most important points to check regularly are these: engine oil, hydraulic oil, coolant, air filter, fuel filter and also the tyres.

A clean engine is crucial for the longevity of your tractor. It is therefore important to change the engine oil and oil filter at the intervals recommended by the manufacturer. Care must be taken to ensure the use of the correct type of oil and to check the oil level regularly.

While the airstream has a cooling effect on a normal car journey, a tractor is particularly dependent on a well-functioning cooling system because this “workhorse” is usually travelling somewhat more slowly. The cooling system is therefore essential for the temperature regulation of the engine. For this reason, the coolant level should be checked regularly.

Is there enough coolant? If levels are low, you should look for the leak as soon as possible. If there are impurities in the coolant, the cooling system should be flushed out and filled with fresh coolant. The tractor is only well prepared for winter use if it has sufficient frost protection. This must therefore be ensured at the latest before the cold season begins. Farmers should always go to a specialist workshop for work of this kind.

A clogged air filter will affect engine performance and, furthermore, may also increase fuel consumption. So if you want to save fuel and have top performance from your tractor, you should clean the tractor's air filter regularly and replace it if necessary. This ensures optimum combustion and efficiency of the tractor.

A tractor – like construction machinery -– is worked really hard. Consequently, regular replacement of the fuel filter is also recommended, as it is essential to avoid contamination in the fuel system.

The tyres are the decisive factor for the performance and safety of a tractor. Therefore, the tyre pressure, tread depth and condition of the tyres should also be checked regularly on a tractor. Be sure to check for cracks, cuts or other damage and ensure that the wheels are properly aligned and balanced in order to avoid uneven wear and reduced stability.

The hydraulic system is essential for controlling work equipment and for the transmitting of power. This means that the hydraulic oil level should be checked at regular intervals. If oil levels are low here, the leak must be found and repaired as quickly as possible. During a regular visual inspection, the seals and hydraulic hoses should be carefully scrutinised.

These attachments should also be checked and maintained in order to guarantee optimum performance and longevity. Oils and lubricants matched to the vehicle type are fundamental for performance and a long service life: moving parts and joints should therefore always be lubricated so as to reduce friction and wear. When attachments are being used, their connecting elements must be checked for a tight fit and for proper functioning. In addition to the attachments, the components to be lubricated include the cardan shafts, the bearings, chains, joints and axles. They should be lubricated, above all, after cleaning.

The tractor's electrical systems, including the battery, starter and alternator, must also be checked regularly. Care should be taken to ensure that the cable connections are clean and that they are of a tight fit. Lighting is also important for safety, especially when work is being carried out at dusk or in fundamentally poor visibility conditions. The functioning of the headlamps, work lamps and lamps in general should be checked regularly and, if necessary, adjusted to the specific requirements.

Corrosion (rust) can affect all metal parts and, in the worst case, also the functioning of the tractor. Regular cleaning, especially after use in humid or salty environments, can increase the life of the tractor and maintain its value. If there are signs of rust or corrosion on the body and vehicle components, the damage should be treated with rust inhibitor or properly painted as soon as possible. Especially if there is damage to the paint structure, the rust can otherwise also infiltrate the paintwork.

So as to avoid damage from moisture, dirt or rodents, the tractor should be parked in a dry, well-ventilated place. It is recommended to protect the vehicle from direct sunlight. Winter care is particularly important so that frost damage to the engine, cooling system and battery can be avoided. Be sure to get the tractor ready for the winter by protecting the cooling system with antifreeze, by removing the battery when not in use or by using a battery preservation device.

So putting everything in a nutshell: timely and regular maintenance and care of the tractor are crucial for the longevity and performance of the vehicle. Regular inspections, checks and a little care for the most important components can significantly extend the service life of the tractor and at the same time increase safety and efficiency during work activities.