10 Tractor Maintenance Tips Every Indian Farmer Should Follow to Avoid Costly Breakdowns

Buying a tractor is a big moment for any Indian farmer. It’s powerful, reliable and built to work hard, but let’s be honest, it can also feel a little intimidating at first. A machine this expensive must be maintained properly, or small mistakes can turn into big repair bills.

The good news? You don’t need to be a mechanic or visit the service centre every month. With a few simple, practical maintenance habits, you can keep your tractor running smoothly for years. These tips are inspired by real-world experience and everyday checks that farmers can easily do at home

1. Do a Daily Walk-Around Before Starting

Before you even turn the key, walk around your tractor once.

• Look for oil drops under the front axle or rear fittings
• Check around loader valves and hydraulic joints
• If parked outdoors, place cardboard underneath to spot leaks easily

Small leaks are common, especially in new tractors or older ones used heavily with loaders. Catching them early usually means a simple seal replacement, not a major repair.

2. Never Forget to Check Diesel Level

This sounds obvious, but it’s one of the most common mistakes. Running out of diesel far from home means:

• Wasted time
• Extra effort carrying fuel
• Air entering the fuel system

Make it a habit to check fuel levels before heading to the field.

3. Check Engine & Hydraulic Oil Weekly

Every tractor comes with dipsticks or sight glasses—use them.

• Engine oil: mandatory weekly check
• Hydraulic oil: extremely important if you change implements often

Each time you disconnect hydraulic hoses, a little oil is lost. Low hydraulic oil can slow down implements and damage the pump.

4. Keep the Radiator Screen Clean

In Indian summers and dusty conditions, overheating is common.

• Clean the radiator screen weekly during mowing or dry field work
• If temperature gauge rises, check the screen first

A clogged screen blocks airflow and puts unnecessary stress on the engine.

5. Clean the Air Filter Regularly

This is a 30-second job that can save thousands in repairs.

• Open the air filter housing
• Remove the filter
• Blow it gently from a distance

Don’t blow air too close, this can damage the filter. A clean air filter improves fuel efficiency and prevents engine wear.

6. Use Plenty of Grease

Greasing is one of the most underrated maintenance jobs.

• Grease all fittings on tractor, loader, backhoe, and implements
• Follow the owner’s manual (often every 10 hours)
• Over-greasing is better than under-greasing

Keep a grease gun in your shed. A battery-operated one makes life much easier.

7. Try Basic Oil Changes Yourself (If Confident)

Many farmers now do their own oil changes.

• Drain old engine oil
• Replace oil filter
• Refill with recommended oil

Around 40% of tractor owners prefer doing this themselves. It’s not difficult but if unsure, professional service is always safer.

8. Check Wheel Nut Tightness After Initial Use

After the first 10–20 hours, vibrations can loosen wheel nuts.

• Use a torque wrench
• Follow torque specs in the manual
• Check all wheels

Loose wheels are dangerous and can damage hubs if ignored.

9. Clean Implements & Watch for Rodents

Seasonal care matters more than people realise.

• Clean mower decks thoroughly to prevent rust
• Pressure wash mud and grass buildup
• After long storage, check engine bay for mouse nests

Rodent nests can cause overheating and even fire hazards when starting the tractor.

10. Seasonal Storage & Weather Protection 

Extreme weather is tough on machines.

• Use diesel conditioner in cold regions
• Disconnect battery during long storage
• In winter or monsoon, apply light oil spray to prevent rust
• After winter use, wash tractor thoroughly to remove salt and moisture

Final Thoughts: Small Habits, Big Savings

Tractor maintenance doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Most breakdowns happen due to neglected basics, not major failures.

By following these 10 simple maintenance tips:

• You reduce downtime
• You extend tractor life
• You avoid sudden repair bills during peak farming season

A well-maintained tractor is not just reliable, it’s also stress-free. Give it a little care regularly, and it will return the favour every single day in the field.

MotorFloor tip: Maintenance isn’t a cost, it’s an investment that pays you back every season.