Tractor Part Tip of the Month: Cooling System Maintenance

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it’s been a hot summer, which can take a toll on your farming equipment. On especially hot days, it’s important to pay attention to the temperature gauge on your tractor to make sure it’s not showing a higher than normal temperature reading. If this is the case, check the engine area for any leaks or other obvious problems and turn the engine off. Your engine has most likely overheated, which is a result of a cooling system malfunction – an overlooked area for maintenance.

How to Diagnose a Cooling System Problem

The first step in diagnosing an overheating problem is to make sure there is enough fluid in the radiator. You can check by looking in the overflow container. If that is filled and there is no blockage from the radiator to the overflow container, then wait for the engine to cool. Once the engine is cooled, remove the radiator cap and check the radiator for fluid.
If you notice a fluid shortage, the next step is to identify the cause which may be a damaged lower and upper radiator hose, clamps that need to be tightened or changed, or a leaking hose or broken water pump. Once you know the source of the engine overheating, visit your local dealer for replacement parts you may need.

Maintaining Your Cooling System

Without regular preventive maintenance, your cooling system can quit on you when you need it to work best. It’s important to maintain your tractor’s cooling system regularly. Here are a few items to add to your maintenance checklist:

• Clean the radiator to get rid of debris
• Check coolant levels
• Flush the radiator and check the cap for cracks
•  Add new antifreeze at least twice a year
• Check the belts driving the water pump and fan for cracks
• Tighten clamps
• Squeeze upper and lower hoses. If they are mushy, they should be replaced.

These simple steps can help keep your tractor engine cool in the heat and prevent major equipment issues.

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