Top 5 Signs Your Tractor or Combine Needs Service Before Harvest Season Hits

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Harvest season is go-time for farmers, which means preparation is key for a successful harvest. Your most powerful equipment will be the backbone of your operation, so it’s a must that your machines deliver their best performance for peak productivity on the field. Heavy-duty equipment, such as tractors and combines, is built to withstand demanding conditions and provide reliable support for many laborious hours in the field. However, it’s your responsibility to maintain your machines when it’s time for a tune-up. In this blog, we’ll cover the top 5 signs that indicate it’s time for service.

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Engine Trouble

Your engine is the heart of your equipment, so any indication that it’s compromised should be addressed immediately to avoid engine failure.

Common signals of problems with your engine include:

Decreased performance
Overheating
Stalling or difficult starts
Excessive exhaust smoke

If you experience any of these issues, it’s best to get under the hood or get it seen by professionals to avoid complete engine failure when you need your equipment the most.

Unusual Noises

Your equipment will let you know exactly when it needs servicing if you listen to it. Unusual sounds coming from your tractor or combine are a telltale sign that it’s having some kind of mechanical problem. Sounds like knocking, banging, hissing, grinding, or squealing all point to damage of an internal component. A trusted technician can provide the proper diagnostics to get the the bottom of the issue and fix it before it becomes a major breakdown.

Leaks

If you find that your tractor is often leaving a puddle behind the spot where you left it, it could be a sign that you need to get it serviced. If you detect any type of leakage from your equipment, this is a clear indicator of a damaged or failing component. Engine oil leaks can signal worn seals, gaskets, or cracks in the engine. Coolant leaks can result from a damaged radiator or fuel pump. Hydraulic leaks are indicators of damaged hoses, connectors, or pump failure. A small leak could take a simple fix, but consistent leaks from multiple components could require a part replacement.

Hydraulic Failure

Frequent problems with steering or powering attachments on your machine most likely mean there is an issue with your hydraulic system. A failing hydraulic system could cause implements to move more slowly than usual, loss of steering control, a hydraulic fluid leak, or bubbles in the reservoir. Bring your equipment into the shop as soon as you encounter any of these problems to avoid a complete system overhaul during harvest.

Transmission/Clutch Problems

Difficulty shifting gears, a slipping clutch, or unusual noises when shifting gears are all indicators that there is a problem with your transmission. Your transmission is responsible for delivering power to key components of your equipment. So a worn transmission system can result in poor performance and lead to complete failure, which is a devastating setback for peak season. If you catch these symptoms early, they could be fixed with simple gear repairs or a clutch replacement, but severe damage can require a full transmission rebuild.

Premium equipment, like John Deere tractors and combines, is built to get you through the toughest parts of the season, but the only way to reach their full potential is with proper maintenance. Don’t ignore the signs of wear and tear; get your harvest equipment serviced by certified technicians at American Implement to have your best season yet.