Proper Tractor Storage

Your tractors are the workhorse of your operations, whether you work in agriculture or construction. It’s vital that they stay in good working order, and as durable as they may be, the wrong storage method might cause it damage and cost you time and money. We here at J5 Tractors know how important it is to be able to rely on your equipment, so we’ve put together some tips for storing your tractor. If you want to know more, or you just want to see the tractors we have for sale, contact our stores in Conroe, Navasota, Buna, and Normangee, Texas, today!

Visual Inspection

Before putting your tractor into storage, you’ll want to give it a once-over. Make sure there aren’t any immediate problems, like fluid leaks, dents, or other damage to the exterior. Keep an eye out for built-up grime, dirt, or rust, and make sure that there are no larger issues that caused them. Keep note of any problem areas for later.

You’ll want to check under the hood, as well. Make sure all fluids are the correct viscosity and color, like motor oil and fuel. If they appear sludgy or watery, or if the color is off, you may need to drain and replace the fluid entirely. For long periods of low use, you’ll want to simply empty the fuel tank to prevent the fuel from going stale and causing corrosion inside the tank. If you find any issues you aren’t able to handle, make sure you get the tractor serviced before putting it away.

Battery

While you’re under the hood, you should check to see that the battery is in good shape and that the terminals have no corrosion. For longer periods of storage, you should remove the battery entirely and place it on a trickle charger, especially if it’s going to be cold out. 

Clean It Up

Once you know where any problem areas are and that the mechanics are in good shape, it’s time to wash the tractor down. Caked-on dirt or rust buildup can cause serious problems if it’s allowed to sit for long periods of time, and your tractor will thank you for the effort!

Tires

Any tractor that’s going into storage for a while is going to wear on its tires. Make sure they’re in good shape beforehand so they don’t pop over the storage period. Check the tread for proper depth and make sure all tires are inflated correctly, then check the sidewalls for cracks or damage. Damage to the sidewalls may require a replacement.

Once you’re done, all that’s left is keeping your tractor safe from the elements! We hope these tips help you keep your tractor in good shape during storage, and if you need assistance, our maintenance teams are ready to help. We proudly serve the people of Conroe, Texas—let us serve you today!