Even though lawn tractor advertisements make claims such as “nothing runs like a Deere,” it’s safe to assume that any model of tractor will fail to run if you don’t maintain it properly. Maintenance will also help to keep your money in your wallet instead of giving it to the repair man.

Spring

With spring comes lush lawn growth, and unless your tractor is prepared, you’ll end up with a hayfield instead of a lawn. A quick hour’s worth of work will go a long way toward keeping your lawn well-maintained and gorgeous.

1. Change what needs changing.

The oil, fuel, filters, blades and belts all need attention first thing in the spring. Siphon out old fuel and add fresh to prevent any debris or water that accumulated during the winter from damaging your engine. The oil should be changed for the same reasons. Starting your tractor and letting the engine warm up a bit will help make changing the oil much easier. Change any filters at this time, as dirt and unwanted rodent guests may have accumulated in these places.

You’ll want to check the belts for wear and sharpen your blade if it’s dull as well. Replace blades and belts if worn or damaged. Lastly, replace your spark plug to ensure your engine gets the spark it needs to run.

1. Look for damage.

This is a good time to see if there is anything loose, damaged or in need of repair. Look for loose or missing bolts and replace them. Check to make sure the mowing deck is hung properly. Look at your electrical plugs and check them to see if they’re still wired tightly.

Check the condition of your tractor’s battery. You can put a voltage meter on the battery—a reading below nine volts indicates you need a new battery. Make sure the battery connections are tight and free of corrosion. Finally, check the tires for proper air pressure and wear. Replace the tires if needed.

1. Lubricate.

An un-lubricated tractor eventually becomes like the Tin Man—rusty and unable to move. Check your tractor owner’s manual for grease fitting locations (so you don’t miss any) and the type of product to apply. If your tractor has attachments, check those as well for grease fittings.

You can also apply a drop of lubricating oil to each nut, bolt and joint on the tractor to keep them from rusting out.

Weekly maintenance

Your lawn tractor gets a work out during prime grass growing time. If you take time every week to keep up with maintenance and repairs, you’ll help your tractor stay in tip top shape. Keep in mind, if you have a new lawn tractor you’ll want to have it professionally serviced after 100 hours of use. After that, you can do most of the tune up work yourself.

1. Clean up your tractor’s act.

A clean tractor runs more efficiently and looks sharp while mowing the lawn. Wet grass is also a facilitator for the accumulation of rust. Use a mild soap and the hose to wash off clippings and debris. You can use an automotive degreaser to remove build-up on the engine and chassis.

Don’t forget the underside of your tractor. Ramps can be purchased to drive the tractor onto, giving you easy access to the undercarriage. You’ll want to disconnect the spark plug for safety once the tractor is up on the ramps.

There are inside parts that need attention as well. The pre-cleaner is the foam rubber piece around your air filter which acts to remove the bulk of dust and crud before it’s sucked into the air filter. Remove it and wash it in soapy water. Rinse and allow to dry thoroughly before reinstalling.

You’ll also want to clean the engine shroud. Air-cooled engines need air to work properly, and an engine shroud covered with dirt will block the precious air your engine needs. The top of the motor is covered by an engine shroud or screen. Cleaning this with a brush or vacuum can loosen debris and help your engine get cool air.

1. Check the fluids. 

Fluid levels are crucial to keeping your tractor running efficiently. You’ll want to check all fluids and change appropriate filters as needed. Changing the oil before 50 hours of usage is crucial to keep your engine innards lubed up and working right.

1. Store or cover.

When you’re not using your tractor you’ll want to cover it or store it in a dry place, such as a garage or shed. Rain will cause rust, but even good weather is harmful to your tractor’s paint job and joints. Keeping your tractor out of the elements will prolong its life and keep its value up. A tractor that’s been left out day after day has a much lower resale value than one that has led a sheltered life.

Winter Storage

Before storing your tractor for the long winter months you’ll want to take a few steps to help preserve the engine and other parts. If you use your lawn tractor for snow removal or other chores you’ll want to take this time to prepare it for winter work.

1. Keep the tractor clean.

Give the tractor a good cleaning with mild soap and water to remove all traces of debris and grass. Allow the tractor to dry thoroughly in the sun before storing to help keep rust at bay.

1. Prepare the fuel.

Your fuel needs to be prepared for winter. The additives in fuel are great for the environment when burned, but are harmful to your gas tank and engine when sitting around. You’ll want to add a gas additive to keep the gas from breaking down and corroding your tractor’s innards. Fill your tank to the top to prevent condensation from building up.

1. Spark plugs need care, too.

Your tractor’s spark plug needs attention if you want your trusty machine to start up in the spring. Remove the spark plug and check to make sure it’s not fouled. Then you’ll want to spray fogging oil down into the cylinder to lubricate the carburetor. As you spray the fogging oil, run the engine. When the engine stalls you’ll know the insides have been properly lubricated. Fogging oil doesn’t gunk up your tractor’s insides and will help make your tractor start better next season.

1. Protect the battery.

If you’re storing the tractor, you’ll want to protect your tractor’s battery by charging it fully and removing it for the winter months. Charge the battery a few times over the winter.

1. Maintain implements.

Make sure you take the time to care for your tractor’s attachments and implements, if it has them. Clean them thoroughly to remove dirt and grass, and lube grease fittings if needed to help keep rust at bay.

 

Read Other Articles

 

 

 

Other Articles

Features of Ride On Mowers -Scotts Lawn Care -Commercial Mowers -Tractor Supply Company - Electric Mowers - Garden Edging - Farm Tractors - Garden Tractors - Tractor Implements - Lawn Tractors - Lawn Mower Parts - Used Tractors Prices - Riding Lawn Mowers - Tractors For Sale