Tips For Using Tractor Attachments

Any farming enterprise can benefit from the presence of a tractor as they bring tons of utility and power to the job. But even the most rugged and reliable equipment needs the right implements and attachments to deliver efficient work. Whether there’s tillage, mowing or even excavation to be done, there are a number of tractor attachments you can choose from. Knowing how your equipment operates with these other implements is key to any productive tractor use.

At Rivera’s Machinery Inc., we like to help our customers get the most out of their machines so that they can get more work done in less time. If you’ve got a tractor, you need implements to help you extract versatility out of it. Read on to learn more and then come on down to our dealership in Donna, Texas, to check out some reliable tractor attachments. We welcome all our friends from Harlingen and San Benito.

Basic Steps First

With all equipment, you must go through the user manual first. This holds true whether you’ve used implements before or are a complete beginner. Each tractor is different and so are the attachments that go with them. In the owner’s manual, you’ll find all the specific guidelines and information straight from the manufacturer. Reading and understanding the information you’ll find there is the best foundation for using your tractor and implements.

Before using any tractor attachment, make sure it’s in good shape. This involves checking all the guards and shields are in place and operating correctly. The same goes for the guards around the power take-off (PTO) shafts, gearbox and any other moving part of the equipment. Inspect the hydraulic lines for any damage or leaks and ensure the connections are tight and secure.

Loading Implements

Since tractor hitches are designed to keep the downwards and rear force below the center of gravity during a pull, keep the angle of pull low by always hitching to the drawbar. If you pull anything with an angle above the center of gravity, it’ll result in an overturn. Even smaller lawn or garden tractors can flip without a proper hitch.

To hitch to a drawbar, position your tractor to align the drawbar hole with the one in the hitch. This takes some practice, so it’s normal to have to attempt it a few times before getting it exactly right. Once aligned, stop the engine and put your tractor in park or engage the brakes. Then fix the tractor attachment, making sure to use the right hitch pin and security clip — don’t just use whatever is lying around! Raise the implement jack stand and make sure the wheels can move freely. Then connect the PTO shaft, hydraulic hoses, and any electrical connections as required by the specific equipment.

Using Implements

Tractor attachments get their power through a few different ways, usually PTO, hydraulics or by simply being dragged behind a tractor. Here are some quick tips for different operation methods.

Ground-Driven

Tractor attachments like disks, harrows, rakes and some spreaders are often ground-driven, which means that they operate when they’re pulled by the drawbar that turns their wheels. Often, these implements are much wider than the tractor so always account for the additional space you’ll need. When travelling on public roads, be sure to pull them into “transportation position.”

Power Take-Off

The PTO method draws power from the tractor’s drivetrain and sends it to the implement. This is a common method of power for tractor attachments. However, when using PTO implements, you need some extra safety measures while operating the machine. The PTO spins fast enough to catch and pull anything in and under the tractor avoid wearing loose clothes or leaving long hair untied. Ensure all the guards and shields are well-maintained, and always make sure to do any hitching and connecting with the tractor powered down.

Hydraulics

With hydraulics, you use pressurized liquid to deliver power to tractor attachments. Since the hydraulic fluid is always pressurized, operators need to wear proper safety glasses or face shields and gloves when using one of these systems. Clean oil and proper lubrication will keep your hydraulics systems working well and avoid them overheating. The extreme pressures also make leaks likely, so any sign of leaking fluid is a sure sign to stop working hydraulics and power down until the problem can be addressed.

We hope this information helps you use your tractor and any attachments properly. If you need additional help, visit Rivera’s Machinery Inc. in Donna, Texas, where our experts will be happy to help you. If you’re looking for quality tractor attachments, visit us today to take a tour of our inventory. We welcome all our friends from Harlingen and San Benito.