Let us talk a bit about the maintaining of all farming equipment. There is one thing you should always remember. There is a reason why the machinery has a safety feature, and if all else fails; it had better not be the safety measures. Some things we need to learn by making our own mistakes. This is definitely not the lessons you want to experience first hand. When buying used farm tractors you must be sure to check that the safety equipment built into the machine by the manufacturer is in good working order. Most tractors, including those for home use, are meant to automatically shut off the engine, allowing other elements such as tires, or blades to stop rotation, should you lose your balance or lift your weight off the seat. There is a very good reason for this. I know this, my father suffered an accident where his machinery tipped into the hole he was digging. The machine did not shut off when he was thrown off, and the tires continued to turn, crushing his knee to bits. Having done this type of work his whole life, it was his first accident, yet his employer’s carelessness in maintaining the machinery nearly took his life.
Another rule of thumb is if someone is not in the seat at the wheel, you should not start the tractor. I will tell you this also, if the tractor is started like this, should the brake fail, you will have a runaway on your hands. Never! I cannot stress this enough. Never, chase down and try to stop a runaway tractor, especially if something is attached behind it. Do not ask how I know this; let us just say my niece and nephew now do not have a father anymore. Your used Kioti or Allis Chalmers, or Caterpillar, whatever brand it might be, should always be maintained properly, for everyone’s sake, and for the fact that when you trade it in for new equipment you will get a better trade in value for a machine in good working order. Paint is not a major concern though keeping your equipment out of the elements when you can is always a good idea.
If you are buying cheap second hand or reconditioned farm tractors, always check them thoroughly. Ask the dealer to demonstrate that the safety measures are still in good working condition. For the sake of your employees lives and your own, do not overlook any of these elements. Always be sure the whole tractor is kept in good working order, if you cannot do it yourself, hire someone who can check them over periodically. In the end, it will be well worth the added costs. Realizing that it may mean more costs. However, it may well cost more than you bargained for, if you do not. You should not attempt to do maintenance unless you have the right tools and know how.
Whether you own a John Deere to mow the lawn or that is the brand of choice for your working farm, keep it in as good a shape as you can. Keep an especially close eye on any used farm equipment you own or purchase. Wash your equipment when you can after using it. Keep diesel and gas fuel spills to a minimum and always cleanup any spillage. You do not need environmental clean ups to deal with at any rate. Study the manual for your tractor, all brand types vary, and keeping a record of maintenance is always a great way to document and keep track. This will also give the dealer who takes it as a trade in an idea of how well it was maintained. Always keep children away from machinery, and teach them to stay away. Letting children ride with you, though it seems fun, may encourage them to approach when you are not aware they are near. The results could be tragic. Finally yet notably, if you can get the farmer to use any, a good sunscreen can never hurt.
