1 Cooling system

The cooling system is an area to which farmers need to pay special attention. This includes the radiator, coolant, water pump, reservoir and hoses.

Farmers need to ensure the radiator is filled with coolant up to the manufacturer’s recommendations (the mark), especially as cooler weather sets in.

The condition of all hoses and connections should be inspected and replaced if deemed necessary. The reservoir and radiator should be checked for any leakages. It is important to note that coolant not only prevents the system from freezing, but also prevents corrosion, lubricates shaft seals, increases the boiling point temperature and inhibits cavitation, which is a damaging condition that erodes components.

As a result, the coolant should be flushed out and replaced at the manufacturer’s recommended hours.

2 Lighting

As the winter kicks in, so too does the reduction of daylight hours. As a result, there’s often tractor work being carried out on farms in the darkness. Farmers need to ensure all lights are in place and functioning correctly. This includes headlights, work lights, brake lights indicators and a flashing beacon. It’s very important to have the correct lighting not only for your own visibility but for all road users.

3 Front loader

Starting with the loader brackets that attach the loader on to the tractor, they should be inspected for signs of wear or any cracks. Any cracks should be dealt with as they pose a serious safety hazard.

It is also advisable to check the torque on the bolts which attach the brackets to the tractor. All grease points on the loader should be checked to make sure they are taking grease. The hydraulic cylinder should be checked over along with all hydraulic hoses and fittings for any leaks.

Farmers should also inspect the loader’s headstock. It is vital that the locking mechanism holding the front attachment in place is working correctly.

4 Battery

When using the tractor in cold weather, best practice is to keep the battery fully charged. Cold weather doesn’t affect the battery. However, it does require twice as much power in order to start a tractor in the cold. It should be allowed to warm up before starting. Farmers should take a minute to clean any corrosion from around the poles with baking soda and a pole brush. This will ensure we get a proper connection between the pole and clamp.

Farmers should take a minute to clean any corrosion from around the poles with baking soda and a pole brush.

It’s advisable to avoid regularly starting and stopping the tractor as this means the battery isn’t being fully charged. This can lead to further problems with the battery and components at a later stage.

5 Tyres

Many farmers all over the country are currently handling heavy materials around the farmyard such as bales or large shear grabs full of silage with the front-end loader. This is placing an increased pressure on the tractor’s front tyres. Farmers need to ensure their tyres are fit for purpose. Tyres should be inspected for any cracks or cuts that may reduce structural strength.

Worn or structurally damaged tyres should be replaced. Not only do they run the risk of a blowout when handling heavy materials with the front loader, but they are also very dangerous in snow and icy conditions and may cause the tractor to slip or slide.

6 Fuel and AdBlue

Farmers should check with their fuel supplier and ensure they are getting a winter grade diesel, which has a much lower freezing point. When diesel freezes, it turns to a gel-like substance that can block up the fuel lines and prevent the tractor from starting.

The fuel system itself should be maintained correctly. This includes keeping it clear of contaminants such as sediments and water by regularly draining the water separator.

If your tractor uses AdBlue, it’s important to note it can freeze and thaw without affecting its ability to function properly. When frozen, the fluid can expand by up to 7%. As a result, farmers should leave adequate space in the tank in the event of it freezing to avoid the possibility of the tank cracking.

7 Cab

Operators should try to keep the inside of the cab free from unnecessary clutter, especially the floor. Tools or rubbish such as empty bottles can easily roll behind a pedal, causing an obstruction.

Farmers should spend some time ensuring all dials, switches and controls are fully functional, seeking professional help if required. This should include the heater, to make sure that visibility won’t be impaired due to frosted windows or any condensation.

Farmers should spend some time ensuring that all dials, switches and controls are fully functional

An area often overlooked by operators is the steps that lead into the cab. The tractor’s steps should always be kept clear of debris as it can easily lead to slippage. Farmers should check to see if the steps are securely mounted. Any damaged steps should be repaired or replaced.

8Glassware

It is important that farmers take the time to keep all glassware clean. Dirty windows will impair operator vision, posing a serious safety hazard. Tractors should have functioning wipers and mirrors. The wiper blade should be replaced if necessary. Operators should ensure the washer system is working and is filled with an anti-freeze solution, which will aid the defrosting of frozen windows faster in the mornings.

Any cracked or broken mirrors should be replaced. The mirrors should be fixed solid in place and like the other glassware they should be kept clean.

9Back-end

It’s important that operators take the time to check the tractor’s pickup hitch and rear linkage for signs of wear and tear as well as potential problems such as cracks or loose carrier bolts.

The pickup hitch is the only point connecting the tractor to the load/implement so it is essential that it is maintained correctly.

The operator should check the hydraulic couplings for any leaks. In addition, the stabilizers on the lift arms should be inspected to see if they are strained or broken, in which case they should be replaced.

10 Service

It’s good practice to get into a habit of checking the tractor’s fluid levels on a regular basis and topping them up if necessary. This includes engine oil, transmission and hydraulic oils as well as coolant levels.

Modern synthetic and multi-grade oils are capable of working in the Irish climate. However, it is good practice to check the oil specification and viscosity before the cold weather kicks in and replace it with a winter-ready version if necessary.

In cold weather, it is advisable to allow extra time for the engine to warm up before working it. Heating the engine up to its optimum operating temperature will provide adequate lubrication. Failure to this may result in costly internal damage.

Tractors should be serviced at regular intervals based on the manufacturer’s recommendations.