Tips For Tractor Attachments

The tractor is a staple of agricultural work, a flexible and powerful machine that brings several tons of utility to any growing operation. But even the most reliable equipment needs the right implements and attachments to make sure they can be used in the exact right way. There are numerous tractor attachments to choose from for any task, from mowing to tillage to excavation. Knowing how your equipment interacts with these implements is key to using it correctly.

At J5 Tractors, we want to help our customers to know exactly what they need, how their equipment operates, and how it can help them get more work done with less time and effort. When it comes to tractors, there’s no competition - we have the implements you need and can tell you how to use them. Read on for some basic information, or stop by one of our locations in Conroe, Navasota, Buna, or Normangee, Texas, for help from our expert staff.

First Things First

Step one to any equipment usage is to take a look through your owner’s manual. Even if you feel comfortable using the implement you’re using, each tractor and each version of an implement is different, meaning there might be factors you aren’t aware of yet. Always read the owner’s manual for specific guidelines and information directly from the manufacturer. Reading and understanding this information is the best possible foundation for using your tractor and your implement together.

Before using your implement for the first time, make sure it’s in good condition. Look over it to make sure all guards and shields are properly placed and functioning, especially those around power take-off shafts, the gearbox, and any other moving part of the equipment. Examine any hydraulic lines for leaks or other damage and make sure they’re connected tightly and properly. 

Loading Your Implements

Your implements are designed so that downward and backward force during a pull are below the tractor’s center of gravity, utilizing the tractor’s own weight to assist in the operation without destabilizing it. For optimal usage, always hitch these implements to the drawbar. Attaching your implement above the center of gravity will almost certainly result in an overturn.

To hitch your implement to the drawbar, start by positioning your tractor to align the hole in the drawbar with the one in the hitch. This might take a few tries to line it up correctly, so don’t worry if you don’t get it in one shot. Once you’ve aligned them, turn off your engine and put your tractor in park, or otherwise set the brakes. Attach the implement using the correct pin and security clip — not just whatever you find lying around. Raise the implement jack stand and make sure the wheels can move freely. Finally, connect the PTO shaft, hydraulic hoses, and any necessary electrical connections for your implement. 

For a 3-point hitch, start by moving the tractor drawbar forward, then position your vehicle so the pinholes and draft arms are closely aligned with the implement’s hitch points. Raise or lower the draft arms as necessary to match the hitch points. Making sure your tractor is off and the brake is engaged, attach the left draft arm — again, using the right sized hitch pin and security clip — and adjust and connect the right arm. After that, you can start your tractor and raise the arms with hydraulics as needed. Then match the top link of the 3-point hitch to the implement’s upper hitch point. Raise the lift arms to lengthen the reach or drive ahead with the implement down to adjust if needed. The implement may not be level if the upper link has been adjusted too many times, so make sure to relevel it before you begin operating for safety. Finally, attach the hitch pin and security clip.

Using Your Implements

There are several ways implements get their power, usually PTO, hydraulics, or just being dragged behind the tractor. Here are some quick tips for different operation methods.

Ground-Driven

Implements like disks, harrows, rakes, and some spreaders are often ground-driven, meaning they’re operated by the turning of their wheels as you pull them with your tractor. Many of these implements are much wider than your tractor, so always remember to account for that additional width when driving and turning. Make sure you pull the implement into “transportation position” when traveling on public roads.

Power Take-Off

PTO transfers power directly from your tractor’s drivetrain to your implement, making it an extremely common and important method of power. The benefits, however, are balanced by some risks. PTO means extra safety measures to your tractor’s operation and should never be taken lightly. The PTO spins quickly enough to grab anything that’s under your tractor and pull it with great force, so loose clothing and long hair are not advised for operators. Always make sure all guards and shields are in good working order, and always make sure to do your hitching with the tractor completely powered down. Check your owner’s manual for more safety procedures.

Hydraulics

Hydraulics use pressurized liquid to transfer power to your implements. Since hydraulic fluids are always highly pressurized, make sure to wear the right gloves and safety glasses or face shields. For hydraulics to function properly, they need clean oil and proper lubrication to prevent overheating. High pressures also mean a high chance for leaks, so at the first sign of a leak, make sure to stop any working hydraulics and power them down until the problem can be addressed.

We hope these tips have helped you with your implements. Remember to be careful and follow all safety procedures. If you need additional help or are looking for the right equipment, stop by J5 Tractors in Conroe, Navasota, Buna, or Normangee, Texas, today!