Tractor Storage
Spring and summer don’t last long, and before you know it the work is all done and it’s time to put your tractor away for the season. Like any vehicle, a tractor requires regular maintenance and a bit of prep before hitting the garage for winter in order to ensure long-lasting service and that it’ll start up come spring.
Here at FMI Equipment, we believe the noble tractor is the backbone of the agricultural world. It’s doubtful anyone would disagree, and it seems only right to take special care of our tractors so they can bearing the lion’s share of effort that goes into maintaining land.
Beyond regular maintenance, proper storage goes a long way to keeping your tractor in working order, ensuring reliable operation for years to come. In that spirit, we’ve put together this short guide with some tips to storing your tractor at the end of the season. Read on for more information or head into FMI Equipment in Spokane, Washington, near Coeur D’Alene, Idaho.
Basic Maintenance
Prepping your tractor for storage is a great time to do some general maintenance. Start with checking the engine oil. Use the same method you would with a car: take out and clean the dipstick, reinsert, and then pull out again to examine the oil. It should be gold and thin. If it’s sludgy, brown, or thick, it’s time to drain the oil and replace the filter. Otherwise, top off the oil and move on. Next, drain the fuel from the tank and put in a fresh gallon or so with a fuel stabilizer so your tank doesn’t rust out.
Clean up the interior, working around the engine and battery. Dirt can get under the tractor hood, and taking care of it will prevent engine damage. Remove the battery and store it in a dry, cool place. Hook it up to a battery tender to keep it ready for next season. Consider keeping the battery stored in your garage or somewhere else that won’t see much exposure.
Tractor tires are just as important as car tires, so you should examine them for all the same tread wear, tire wall integrity, and stuck debris. When storing your tractor, use supporting blocks or stands to keep the tires from forming flat spots. Release a bit of air — until they are about a third of the recommended pressure. This takes pressure off the tires and puts them on the blocks, which will make your tires ready for next year!
Clean It Up!
Tractors are very likely to get muddy, dirty, and dusty, and it won’t do to let any of that sit. Before you think about storing your tractor, hit it with the suds. Mild detergents like those you’d use on your car work well, and even dish soap and other all-purpose cleaners are effective enough to get the job done. Avoid letting any water or soap getting into the electronics or onto the instrument panel, as this can cause damage. After you’ve finished washing off your tractor, take the time to lubricate the grease points in areas like the hydraulic cylinder rods, which need some grease to keep moving. If there’s ever a time to go over your tractor with a detailed cleaning, it’s now!
Store and Cover
Hopefully you have a proper storage location in mind, like a barn or shed. Whatever you use, it needs to keep your tractor dry and protected from the elements like rain, snow, wind, and sun. If your storage area is less than secure from weather, then a cover is a must. However, don’t use a plastic cover! That’ll reduce air circulation and cause mechanical issues over time as water builds up. Use a tractor cover made with water repelling material.
Following some of these tips will ensure your tractor lives a longer life and stays operational between seasons. Tractors are dependable machines that’ll last if you care for them properly, so don’t skip on caring for them in the off-season! For more tractor storage tips, head into our Spokane, Washington location, near Coeur D’Alene, Idaho, and serving all of Spokane Valley, Eastern Washington, and Northern Idaho. Come in today and speak with our team of knowledgeable and courteous professionals who’ll answer all your questions and help you find the equipment you’re looking for!