If you put your machine in storage for the winter, that doesn’t mean it should just sit idle. Your heated shop or garage is the perfect workspace to take on those DIY tractor repairs and upgrades you’ve been meaning to get to. Here’s our quick DIY guide to save some money and ensure your machine is ready to run come spring.
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Why Winter is the Time for Tractor Maintenance
The cold weather is keeping you indoors. Why not put those hours to use? Winter is the perfect time to take on maintenance and upgrade projects–you’re not rushing between jobs, parts are often on sale, and you’ll avoid the spring rush at the dealer.
Beginner-Friendly Winter Maintenance Projects
Even basic DIY maintenance can save hundreds of dollars, all while extending the life of your equipment. Here are some quick and simple jobs to take on at home.
Oil and Filter Changes: This is one of the first tasks that equipment owners tend to take on themselves. Fresh oil protects your engine during storage and ensures smooth starts in spring. You’ll need an oil drain pan, wrench set, and the manufacturer-recommended oil for your machine.
Air Filter Replacement: A clogged air filter puts unnecessary stress on the engine and reduces fuel efficiency. Replacing it takes only minutes and usually costs under $20. Locate the air filter housing, remove the oil filter, and install the new one.
Spark Plug Service: Hard starts and rough operation typically mean worn spark plugs. Removing and inspecting plugs will reveal the issue. Replace any plugs with worn electrode gaps or excessive deposits.
Battery Maintenance: Winter is rough on your battery. Remove, clean terminals with a wire brush, and fully charge. Store batteries in a warm location on a trickle charger to avoid unnecessary damage.
Grease All Fittings: Winter is the perfect time for a thorough greasing. Grab a grease gun and hit every zerk fitting you can find–steering components, loader arms, implement connections, you name it.
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Intermediate Upgrades and Repairs
Now you’re getting a little more comfortable with DIY projects and have a better understanding of your machine. Here are some intermediate projects that you’ll enjoy taking on!
Belt Inspection and Replacement: Mower decks and drive belts degrade over time. When your mower’s out of commission in the winter, flip your mower deck and inspect the belts closely. Replacing worn belts now prevents mid-season breakdowns.
Tire Repair and Upgrades: Did you notice a slow leak last mowing season? Now’s the time to add tire sealant, upgrade to more aggressive treads, and fix all leaks. The off-season also allows plenty of time to properly balance tire pressure and add wheel weights if necessary.
Lighting Upgrades: Short winter days mean excellent lighting is a necessity. LED light bar installations are straightforward on most compact tractors–mount the bar, run wiring to the battery, and add a switch.
Hydraulic Fluid Service: If you’re running a front loader or another hydraulic implement, winter is ideal for changing hydraulic fluid and inspecting hoses for cracks or leaks.
Paint Touch-Ups and Rust Prevention: Rust spreads quickly. Grab a wire brush and clear all affected areas. Apply rust converter, prime, and repaint. Protecting metal will significantly extend the life of your equipment.
When to Call a Professional
Some repairs are better left to the professionals. Whether it be specialized tools, diagnostic equipment, or thousands of hours of expertise, some jobs are not designed for DIY. Transmission work, major engine repairs, complex diagnostics, and warranty repairs should be handled by a certified technician.
Guessing is never the answer. If you find unexpected debris in your oil, unusual noises, or other problems you can’t diagnose, call a professional. Systems critical to your safety–like steering and brakes–should be handled by an expert.
Setting Up for Success
Winter is a great time to take on new equipment projects. A clean, warm workspace and a basic set of tools are all you really need. Keep your owner’s manual handy, and don’t hesitate to call an expert at United Ag & Turf if you run into any hiccups.
