Tractor Operation Tips
Over the past century, the tractor has become an essential machine on farms around the world. Farmers depend on these reliable machines for so many agricultural tasks. Productive farm operations require that you operate all your equipment safely and efficiently. That’s why knowing how your machine works and understanding its controls is so important.
Burrows Tractor, serving the greater Portland and Vancouver metro area, is your local tractor dealer, so we’ve provided our list of tips for safe and efficient operation to help you get the most out of your machine!
Distribute Weight Evenly
Because these machines are so powerful and hefty, they can work hard for long periods of time. However, their operational capacity may be significantly reduced if they’re overloaded. Excess weight places stress on your tractor engine’s drivetrain which can make its operation much less reliable.
Figuring out the total ballasted weight for your machine will help you to keep it operating smoothly. An efficient and evenly weighted machine will finish tasks more quickly and easily than one that is burdened down.
Keep Up With Maintenance
All motorized vehicles require regular maintenance and upkeep to prevent them from breaking down in the middle of a job. Your tractor is no different. There are plenty of steps to tractor maintenance, but we only have space to address a few of these.
Make sure your air filtration is operating at optimal levels in order to keep your engine clear of dirt, debris and other particulates that can do real damage. Installing a dirt restriction gauge can help you figure out when to change out your filters, taking the guesswork out of this particular piece of maintenance.
Check your cooling system using an affordable testing kit, obtainable via local dealerships like Burrows Tractor or your model’s manufacturer. Heavy equipment engines require a different type of antifreeze in them than your typical passenger car, so don’t skimp on this.
The fuel needed to improve efficiency in your tractor differs depending on the season. You’ll need to change out fuel from winter to summer to maximize your engine’s performance. Ask your supplier what fuel density is best.
Burrows Tractor also has both parts and service departments if you find anything amiss with your farm equipment that could use some professional maintenance.
Follow Good Safety Practices
Undoubtedly, if you’ve been in agriculture long enough, you’ve heard some manner of horror story about injuries sustained by workers who were careless. It’s easy to become complacent and presume that these types of incidents will never happen to you, but you can’t afford to take any chances.
Don’t remove any safety guards on your machine. This might seem obvious, but some people have done this and suffered the consequences! Operate your machine only while sober and alert, and never try to drive it recklessly around your property. Also, you should be the only person in the cab at any given time because an extra passenger severely compromises safe operation.
Ensure that you’re wearing the proper clothing for operating your machine. This means snug clothes that won’t get caught in the machinery and strong, solid footwear to keep your balance. It’s advisable when operating any piece of farm equipment to wear hearing protection since these engines can be so loud they damage your hearing over time. Don’t be afraid to take a break for food or rest if you feel your focus start to falter or you become sore or distracted.
Looking for tractors near you? Visit one of our locations in Yakima or Wenatchee, Washington, or North Plains, Oregon, to see our selection of new and used tractors for sale! Our dealership proudly serves the greater Portland, Oregon metropolitan area, in addition to the cities of Kennewick, Ellensburg and Richland, Washington.