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Knowledge is power when it comes to getting the most value out of a tractor.
A tractor supply company can offer clients some insight into the machine. In
addition, new tractor owners can explore web resources and manuals to learn the
fundamentals of operating a tractor. Heres a look at some frequently asked questions
and expert answers on the topic.
Q. How can tractor owners prevent accidents such as rollovers?
A. Tractors are notoriously top-heavy, which makes them prone to rollover--particularly
on sloped or uneven ground. About half of tractor-related deaths are caused
by rollover. A study found that the majority of these fatalities could have
been prevented with the installation of a roll-over protection structure,
or ROPS. When purchasing a tractor, look for a model with either an enclosed
cab or a ROPS bar.
OSHA, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, specifies operating
practices designed to prevent rollover. These include operating the tractor smoothly, setting brakes securely, avoiding ditches and embankments, reducing
speed when turning, and avoiding steep inclines.
Q. How can owners extend the lifespan of the tractor equipment?
A. Regular maintenance is the key to getting the most life out of a tractor.
Basic maintenance includes changing the oil regularly, replacing filters,
and lubricating moving parts. For best results, leave maintenance to the
experts. The local tractor supply company probably offers a scheduled maintenance
regimen for an annual fee. In between, the owner can care for the equipment
by keeping it out of the weather, cleaning it, and checking fluids regularly
(oil, water, hydraulic, transmission, and brake fluids).
Q. How can owners avoid flat tires?
A. Frequent flats are a sign that the tires are not heavy enough to handle
the terrain. Tractor supply stores stock a range of tires to meet every need.
Turf tires are the most puncture-prone. Tractors with turf tires can be upgraded
to combination or construction tires. These tires are more durable, thanks
to heavier plies, yet retain the balloon design to prevent damage to the
ground. Agricultural tires offer the best traction and puncture resistance,
but can damage grass and other sensitive surfaces.
Q. What is horsepower, and how much is enough?
Horsepower refers to the amount of energy required to lift 550
pounds of weight one foot in one second. The state of Nebraska offers standardized
horsepower tractor tests as a source of independent and reliable information
about tractor performance. Most tractors feature horsepower in the twenty-five
to sixty-five range, which is sufficient for basic agricultural, landscaping,
and light construction activities.
Q. Do tractors require vehicle registration and a drivers license?
A. State vehicle codes stipulate various requirements for operating a tractor on the roads. Most only require truck tractors (i.e., semis) to obtain a
special license and registration. Agricultural and industrial tractors may
require some operational training, but typically do not call for a state
license or registration. There are age restrictions for operating a tractor
on a public road, however; in California, for example, the minimum age for
driving a tractor is fourteen.
Learning to maintain and operate a tractor are important steps to getting
the most value out of this investment--and most importantly, staying safe at
the same time.
Sources
FindLaw
National Ag Safety Database, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Tractor FAQs, Carnegie Mellon
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