Farm Tractor Storage Tips

Any experienced tractor operator can tell you that these hardworking machines need plenty of rest to stay in peak condition. Whether you’re storing your tractor overnight or for several months, there are some steps you should take beforehand to ensure your equipment doesn’t slide into disrepair during its downtime. This guide from Central Arkansas Mahindra explains how to properly store your tractor to prolong the lifespan of this valuable piece of equipment.

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Maintenance

It’s always a good idea to thoroughly inspect your tractor and make sure it’s running smoothly before placing it in storage. That way you won’t run into any surprise maintenance issues when it’s time to put your tractor back to work.

First of all you should check your engine oil. This is the same process you use when checking the oil in your car’s engine. Insert the dipstick, remove and wipe clean, then insert again and take a look at the oil. Thick, sludgy oil is a sign that you need to replace the oil and filter, then drain the fuel tank and put in a fresh gallon. Be sure to add fuel stabilizer while you’re at it to prevent the tank from rusting. On the other hand, if your dipstick comes back with a thin coat of golden oil, you can simply top off the tank and be on your way.

The next step is to give your tires a close inspection. Watch out for excessive tread wear, and check for punctures. Use support blocks or stands when storing your tractor for long periods to keep your tires in good shape, and release air from your tires until they’re at a third of the recommended pressure.

Your battery also needs special treatment during long-term storage. Whenever possible, remove the battery and hook it up to a battery tender. Store your battery in a dry, temperature-controlled environment until it’s time to fire up your tractor again.

Cleaning

Chances are your tractor builds up a heavy coat of grime when you’re out working the fields everyday. Tractors are magnets for dust and dirt, and keeping your tractor clean can seem like a losing battle. What’s the use when it only gets covered in filth again? A squeaky clean tractor is beautiful to behold, but washing your tractor isn’t only about looks. That grimy buildup can actually cause long-term damage, and regular cleaning is an essential maintenance task.

Prepare your tractor for storage by washing it thoroughly from top to bottom, taking special care to prevent soap and water from getting into the electronics and instrument panel. When you’re finished cleaning, be sure to lubricate any grease points, such as the hydraulic cylinder rods.

Storing

Now that your tractor is ready for storage, where are you going to keep it? The goal is to protect your tractor from the elements. Cold and hot weather are both bad news for machinery, so always store your tractor indoors if you have the option. Of course, not every farm has a barn or shed large enough to fit a tractor. When storing your tractor outdoors, employ a cover made with breathable, water-repellent material to shield it from the wind, rain and sun.

When you follow all these steps for storing your tractor, you can count on it being ready for action when you need it next. No matter the size of your farm, you probably rely on tractors to get the job done, so proper storage practices are well worth taking seriously!

Did you find these tips helpful? If you have any more questions about farm tractor storage, just ask our qualified staff at Central Arkansas Mahindra. We take pride in offering quality products and services to the Arkansas farming community. We serve Little Rock, AR, along with our neighbors in Sherwood, Conway, and Hot Springs, AR.