Regularly changing engine oil is one of the most basic yet important things you can do to keep your tractor in prime working condition. Everyone knows that, but ironically too many people neglect to stay on a regular oil changing schedule. People get busy or it simply slips their minds.
Overlooking regular oil changes may not seem like a big deal, but it really is important. Engine oil performs more functions than most people realize, and its ability to do these jobs breaks down over time as it ages or becomes soiled.
Here’s how oil protects your tractor engine:
1) Reduces Friction and Wear
Oil lubricates moving parts to minimize wear. A thin layer of oil coats parts to lessen the friction at contact points, thus reducing wear.
2) Reduces Heat
Engine compartments naturally produce a lot of heat, but too much heat build-up is detrimental to the health of an engine. Oil helps reduce hot spots by redistributing heat throughout the engine, lowering temperatures in any one spot. The concentration of heat in any one location is hard on an engine.
3) Limits Corrosive Effects
Corrosion is the enemy of a healthy engine. Oil leaves a thin barrier so corrosive agents such as moisture have less access to metal. Engine oil plays an important role in keeping rust and corrosion under control.
4) Seals to Maximize Performance
Engine oil plays a significant role in creating seals that maximize compression and block the flow of unwanted gasses within the engine.
5) Cleans Engine System
Engine oil keeps contaminants suspended so they are less apt to create harmful deposits, and fresh oil has a greater capacity to keep engines clean.
Importance of Regular Oil Changes for Tractors
Tractors work in very tough conditions, making regular maintenance all the more important. Tractors typically work in hot and dusty environments, causing oil to become contaminated all the sooner. The environment in which tractors work means you should check the condition of oil more often than you might with an automobile. You might also use an oil specifically formulated for agricultural equipment like Stens Shield brand.
Change the Oil Filter
Whenever you change the oil, you should also replace the oil filter. A dirty filter may block the free flow of oil or prematurely soil the fresh oil. If you find it challenging to remove the old filter because of its location or grime buildup, you might consider an oil filter wrench to make removal easier.
A Simple Way to Protect Your Tractor
Keeping on top of regular oil changes is one of the best things you can do to keep your tractor running smoothly. Oil changes don’t always seem like a big thing, but they will pay off for long term reliability.
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