Common Tractor Problems and Solutions

Your tractor is the workhorse that delivers more than you had imagined. No matter how tough the job, you can count on your tractor to get work done. After all that hard labor, your machine needs proper maintenance and regular servicing to keep it in good working condition. With it in the shop, you’ll only rack up expenses while putting your work on hold.

At Boehm Tractor Sales, we want you to get the most out of your tractor for years to come. We’ve made a list of some common issues to watch out for. Pay attention to these and perform maintenance or get early servicing, to avoid wasting time and money on problematic repairs. If you want more information or need immediate service, head to our dealership in Shiner, Texas.

Blunt Blades

Many tractors are used for mowing purposes and have whirring, churning blades that cut through plant growth. How often you have to file your blades depends on how often you use your tractor for mowing. You will need to sharpen the blades at least twice a year. Smaller tractors have single-blade mowing decks. You can easily remove the blades and sharpen them with a file. For bigger machines you’ll need trained technicians if you don’t want to spend too much time filing. If you’re sharpening the blades yourself, remember they don’t have to be razor sharp as long as the edges are smooth. It is mostly the force of the spin which helps in mowing, so as long as your blades aren’t completely dull, the job should still get done.

Fuel System

When your fuel system stops working at its optimal level, you’ll notice your tractor’s performance drops. Low fuel pressure leads to a general loss of power and functionality. You’ll have trouble even powering your implements, let alone getting work done. Another problem to try and avoid is a jammed fuel control level. If that happens, fuel will not reach the engine. Spray it with lubricant to make sure it doesn’t get jammed. A leaky line is easy to patch and replace yourself, but most issues with the fuel system will need professional service to get fixed.

Electrical System

Most electrical problems happen because of the battery in your tractor. It is always a good idea to check the battery first when electrical issues occur. If your tractor has been standing unused for two weeks or more, chances are the battery is completely drained. Check to see if the posts and cables have any wear or material deposits and make it part of your regular maintenance to clean the posts. If electrical problems don’t seem to be battery related, have a professional look at your tractor.

Engine

One of the biggest threats to a hardworking tractor is an overheated engine. Before checking any fluids, make sure the machine has cooled down. Heat can pressurize tanks and make a cap go airborne in a random direction! Dirt and grime can also add to heat in the engine so keep your tractor as clean as possible. Always perform coolant checks as part of your maintenance. Spark plugs can become damaged with heavy work. Some signs of faulty spark plugs are hard starts, low fuel consumption and low performance. Replace them whenever needed. If a carburetor gets clogged up, your tractor will move in jerks. If you catch the problem in time, you can clean the carburetor. If you’re not sure about what’s wrong with your engine, it is time to have a professional look at it.

We hope this list gives you a basic idea of what problems might plague your tractor. If you need more information or are interested in our servicing and part options, please call or come on down to Boehm Tractor Sales in Shiner, Texas. We also proudly serve the areas of Seguin and Austin, Texas.