You already know that maintaining your equipment is an important part of ownership. While it can seem intimidating and costly, it doesn’t have to be. Committing to routine maintenance will minimize downtime and expenses while boosting your equipment’s lifetime and resale value. Read on to learn how you can make the most of your equipment investment through regular maintenance, at home and in the shop.
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Optimal Performance and Operation
One of the most important benefits of routine maintenance is that your machine will work better and harder. With a regular maintenance schedule, you won’t have to worry about issues like dirty filters, ineffective oil, and other inefficiencies.
Quick Home Maintenance Tips
Here’s a list of common maintenance checkpoints you can handle at home:
Fluid Levels: A quick visual inspection for proper levels of engine oil, hydraulic fluid, coolant, and fuel can save you a lot of time and money in the long run.
Filters: Inspect air, oil, and fuel filters, and clean or replace when necessary. Clean, unclogged filters maximize engine performance.
Tires: Routinely check that your tires are properly inflated and that your tread is wearing evenly. Uneven wear can be the result of incorrect tire pressure or misalignment.
Belts and Hoses: Visually inspect all belts and hoses for signs of wear like cracks or leaks.
Battery: Double-check that your battery holds a charge. Additionally, check the battery’s terminals for corrosion–clean or replace when necessary.
Reduced Downtime
With a regular maintenance schedule, you can get ahead of any severe mechanical or electrical issues. This means that any necessary repairs will be quicker and easier than if you had left them unchecked, and your tractor runs when you need it most.
Increased Longevity and Safety
This goes without saying, but we’ll say it anyway. A healthy, well-maintained piece of equipment will simply last longer, with fewer chances of breakdown. Machines that are not regularly maintained also introduce unnecessary safety risks.
Cutting Costs
Routine maintenance doesn’t only minimize your downtime–it minimizes your expenses, too. Like we mentioned earlier, you’ll be getting ahead of any severe damage, saving money on parts and labor, and eventually even a new piece of equipment.
Retaining Value
In the event that you choose to sell your equipment, a well-maintained machine is going to sell faster–and for more money. That’s because a machine with a great maintenance record is more reliable, and there’s no hiding a tractor’s history.
Bonus: Off-Season and Winterization
It’s important that you don’t forget the off-season. Maybe you won’t be using your equipment this winter, but you’ll definitely need it in great condition next year. Check out our guide to safely storing and winterizing your equipment.
Before You Store: How to Service and Winterize Your Equipment
So, How Do You Make a Maintenance Plan?
The best way to ensure that your machine is receiving the best care it can is by developing a relationship with your dealer. At United Ag & Turf, we’ve got a network of dozens of dealers throughout the Northeast, so we’re never too far away. Whether you’re looking for routine, in-shop maintenance or some tips on at-home servicing, our technicians will be a great resource for you. Reach out to your nearest United Ag & Turf dealer to get started!
