A Beginner’s Guide to Proper Tractor Storage

Now that winter is well underway, it’s time for many farms to shift their operations to more indoor pursuits. Before you shut everything down, though, one of the tasks you’ll need to complete is storing your equipment, including your tractor. While it might seem simple to drive it into the barn and be done with it until spring, performing a little maintenance and taking some extra precautions can help spare you expensive repairs once the weather warms up again.

Knowing how to properly maintain and store your tractor for the winter is vital to its longevity and performance. If you want your tractor to serve you well for years to come, follow our guide to tractor storage.

Basic Tractor Maintenance

Start the process by checking the oil. Just like you check your car’s oil, all you have to do is remove the dipstick, wipe it down, reinsert it and remove it again to check the color and consistency. A good oil will be golden-brown and reasonably translucent and thin. Sludgy, thick oil means you’ll need to drain and replace your tractor engine’s oil along with the filter. If all seems well, top off the oil and move to the next task: draining the fuel. Remove old gasoline from your tractor’s gas tank and fill it with clean gas along with a fuel stabilizer to keep your tank from rusting.

Next, you’ll want to remove your tractor battery and store it in a cool and dry place. To keep it charged and ready for the spring, you can hook it up to a battery tender. It’s best to store your battery in a garage or secure shed that won’t allow it exposure to extremely cold temperatures.

Finally, check your tractor tires for rips, tears, worn treads, or embedded objects. When you store your tractor, it’s good to use supporting blocks to prevent the tires from getting flat spots.

Cleaning Your Tractor

You’ll next want to clean your tractor as thoroughly as you can before storing it. Removing dirt, dust, mud, and other buildups now will prevent rust and ensure that parts move freely. A mild car detergent is good for washing your tractor, but avoid getting soap into instrument panels or electronic components. Dry your tractor thoroughly before storing it, particularly before putting a cover on it so you don’t trap moisture.

Storing & Covering Your Tractor

Ideally, you’ll have a good indoor place to store your tractor already picked out, whether this is a barn or a shed, or even a garage. To prevent rust and degradation, keep your tractor well-insulated from sun, rain, snow, and wind. If your storage area isn’t weatherproofed completely, then investing in a snug cover for your tractor is a good idea.

If your tractor requires some professional maintenance, don’t hesitate to contact us at True Value Trailers & Power Equipment in Penrose and Florence, CO. We’ll be happy to help you get your tractor in good shape. We proudly serve all those in Pueblo and Colorado Springs.