Tractor Talk Yearly Checks

Tractor Talk Yearly Checks

By Joel Hicks, product line manager, tractors, KIOTI

Let’ s discuss some easy tips to help prepare your machine for cold weather work.

Get a Jump Start on Winter Maintenance

Planning ahead for winter work will help you avoid costly repairs and keep your machine running smoothly. Prioritize these key tasks to ensure your machine is ready to go, even in the chilliest climates. As you prepare your tractor for colder months, create a maintenance plan that covers crucial areas of routine care.

Start by inspecting your machine. Monitor tire pressure regularly, as it tends to drop in low temperatures. Check and replace any burnt-out bulbs to ensure optimal visibility during low-light conditions. Inspect belts and hoses for signs of wear and look for frayed or damaged wires that could indicate electrical issues. Always let your tractor run for at least five minutes before operation to warm up the engine and circulate oil and coolant— cold starts are tough on machinery.

Don’ t forget to switch to winter-grade fluids when replacing engine oil, anti-freeze and fuel. Cold weather can cause fuel to become unstable and form deposits. Fuel additives help stabilize diesel fuel and prevent buildup that can clog injectors. Although there are numerous winter-grade fluids available, always check your operator’ s manual or consult a dealer to ensure you’ re using fluids appropriate for your machine.

Next, prepare your tractor for winter by installing equipment like an engine block heater. It helps the engine start more easily in cold weather, reduces strain on starting components and boosts fuel efficiency.

Installing tire chains can increase your tractor’ s grip on snow and ice, helping avoid slipping, sliding and even tipping over on inclines and uneven terrain. Operators can also equip their tractors with winter tires, adding better traction than standard tires when working in icy conditions. A ballast weight also adds stability, traction and control to your tractor, especially when using attachments.

If you are operating an open station tractor, consider a cab enclosure, which protects you from the elements.

End of Season? Ready Your Tractor for Storage If your busy season is over and your tractor will sit idle during winter, it is important to store it properly to prevent damage and ensure it can jump right back into work in spring.

Evaluate your Machine

Fall is the perfect time to take stock of your tractor’ s performance. Note what’ s working well and what needs maintenance or repair. If you’ ve outgrown your current equipment or noticed persistent issues, consider scheduling maintenance with your dealer or planning for upgrades.

Clean It Thoroughly

A clean tractor is easier to inspect and better protected from damage. Washing off dirt, grease and debris before winter storage helps prevent rust and corrosion, which can significantly shorten your tractor’ s lifespan.

Store Indoors if Possible

Whenever possible, store your tractor in a sheltered or indoor space to protect it from the elements. If indoor storage isn’ t an option, use a heavy-duty cover, ideally combining it with sheltered storage. Parking in a sunny spot can also help, as natural heat reduces extreme cold. Long-term storage in cold, wet conditions leads to corrosion, cracked engine components and flat tires, so elevate the tires as needed and choose a storage location with care.

Remove the Battery

Cold temperatures can drain your battery or crack its casing. If the tractor will sit unused, disconnect and remove the battery and store it in a warm, dry place. This preserves battery life and prevents leaks or power loss. While you’ re at it, use anti-corrosion spray and wrap your tractor’ s exposed metal parts to protect against snow and ice damage.

Fall is the best window for preparing for winter maintenance. By acting now, you’ ll save money, reduce downtime and protect your tractor from avoidable damage. Whether your tractor runs year-round or will be stored for the season, a few proactive steps ensure it’ s ready to handle whatever winter has in store. Stay ahead, stay prepared and keep your tractor in peak condition.

26 AcreageLife August 2025 AcreageLife. com

AcreageLife. com August 2025 AcreageLife 27