Maintaining Your Farm Equipment's Parts

Whether it is the smallest of lawnmowers or the biggest of tractors, all machines need proper maintenance in order to continue functioning efficiently. However, the larger and more complicated the machine, the harder it can be to stay on top of maintenance. That is why Tatum Motor Company has created this guide to keeping your farm equipment’s parts in good shape.

Know Your Equipment

While this guide will provide you with general information that applies to almost all makes and models of the most common types of farm equipment, there are also many more specific maintenance tasks that may be necessary to keep everything running smoothly. We highly recommend that you read over your owner’s guide in order to learn more about your machine and its specific maintenance needs.

Do Inspections Before Use

Farm equipment tends to be huge and powerful. When accidents do occur, the consequences can be very serious. Make a habit of inspecting your equipment before each use. It only takes a few minutes and can help keep yourself and others safe. Remember that safety should always come before efficiency.

The Tires

There are two things you need to watch when it comes to tires. The first thing is tire pressure. Both overinflated and underinflated tires are more vulnerable to damage and can cause long-term problems. Regularly check your tire pressure using a gauge, and adjust when necessary.

The other thing you need to watch carefully is the tire treads. The treads play an important role in providing traction to your vehicle, but they will become worn down over time. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s recommendations on when to replace the tires, and regularly inspect the treads for signs of wear and tear.

The Engine

The engines of most modern farm equipment depend upon a handful of different fluids to function properly. These include oil, hydraulic fluid, and coolant. Be sure to regularly check your fluid levels and top them off when necessary. If you see any pools of liquid on the ground beneath the equipment (that aren’t condensation), you may have a leak, in which case you should schedule a service appointment. As a final note, your equipment’s filters need to be regularly inspected and replaced as well.

The Frame

While minor scratches and dings are nothing to worry about, a deeper cut or gash may threaten your equipment’s structural integrity. If you see something that concerns you, ask an expert.

The Attachments

If your equipment has any attachments, do not forget to inspect them as well. Poorly maintained attachments are not only less efficient, but they can also damage the equipment they are attached to if you are not careful.

The Operator Tools

Even if everything else is working perfectly, the operator cannot utilize a piece of equipment safely without all of their tools working as well. This can mean making sure the mirrors are clean and not cracked so that the operator can see, or fixing the lever that allows the operator to change gears.

We here at Tatum Motor Company are happy to help with all of your farm equipment parts needs, whether it is ordering what you need or helping you with installation. We operate two dealerships, one in Anderson, Missouri, and another in Tontitown, Arkansas. This allows us to serve all kinds of communities, including Fayetteville, Arkansas, and Joplin, Missouri. Whatever your farm equipment needs, we hope to see you soon!