FIT FOR PURPOSE
If you have a smallholding and you are looking to do some winter maintenance to your land do not get caught out by the weather. whether you have the right tractor equipment for the job or not, all compact tractors need a little TLC. Just like yourself, warm up nicely with a nice cuppa... Start your Kubota's day by warming up and checking your fluid levels...
SETTING THE STANDARD FOR RELIABILITY, PERFORMANCE AND VERSATILITY
With machines ranging from 18.0 to 168.0 horsepower, Kubota has the tractor you need to get the job done. And they prove their worth even on your most difficult days. No matter the size of the project, whether you’re moving tons of earth or just cutting your lawn, Kubota will never let you down. And we have some tips for continuing that performance over the coming months!
IS YOUR KUBOTA TRACTOR READY FOR WINTER?
With seasonal change, your reliable Kubota compact tractor faces a new set of demands. Winter offers a new set of challenges for your equipment, and you. Changes in temperature and less frequent use chief among them. But, with proper maintenance you can keep your small tractor ready to perform all winter long. Whether you have a wood chipper, log splitter; using a backhoe or hedge cutting your small tractor is the work horse.
STEP ONE: GET TO KNOW YOUR MACHINE
Familiarize yourself with your model specific recommendations in your tractor’s operator’s manual. This is the first place to look whenever you have questions about your Kubota. If you no longer have or can’t find your Kubota operator’s manual, you can order a replacement here.
TWO: MAKE SURE MACHINE MAINTENANCE IS UP TO DATE
Check fluid levels daily
Cleaner engine oil as well as transmission fluid will lubricate better and reach operating temperature sooner
Use manufacture recommended oil (Kubota 10W-40), hydraulic fluid, and lubricants, such as SUPER UDT2 or UDT HD(M7 Tractors), listed in operator’s manual. See your local Kubota Dealer to purchase any parts, oil, lubricants or for any service needs for your piece of equipment
Ensure you have proper coolant levels. Use manufacture recommended mixture, test antifreeze to ensure it is the appropriate mixture
Keep your battery charged.
NEXT: A FEW EASY-TO-FOLLOW OPERATION TIPS
Familiarize yourself and the operators with the appropriate warning lights that may appear on the dash such as frozen DEF fluid
Pre-heat the engine, allowing the glow plugs to warm up, before starting
Allow tractor to warm up at an idle in extremely cold temperatures
Let the machine continue running during small breaks in work
Make sure tyre pressure is still set appropriately as per tyre manufacturers recommendations
Avoid using liquid ballast that can freeze in tires, your local Kubota dealer offers cast rear wheels, wheel weights, and ballast boxes that allow you to avoid using liquid ballast in your tires
Install/Use block heater in extremely cold temperatures
Store DEF fluid in an area where it will not get too cold or too warm, that can lessen the shelf life of the DEF fluid. Store between 40° and 80° F (5°-27° C) for optimal shelf life
Ensure you are using fresh, clean fuel
No. 2-D S15 diesel Fuel
No. 1 D S15 diesel fuel if temperature is below 14° F (-10° C)
IN CLOSING, REMEMBER THESE FIVE ESSENTIAL WINTER GUIDELINES
A proper warm-up is essential
Check fluid levels regularly, especially oil
Choose your fuel for cold weather performance
Prevent water from getting into your fuel
Make certain your battery is strong
Any questions?
If you have any questions about maintaining and selecting your Kubota tractor and tractor attachment requirements over the winter months, contact Beckside Machinery. www.becksidemachinery.co.uk . We have the answers and are excited to help.
Keep watching out for regular posts to keep your compact tractor in shape especially through winter. We have articles describing how to maintain and care for Kubota tractors and mowers and is a great source for anyone who owns a Kubota product. The Photos that appear here are also courtesy of the lawnEQ.com. For more information about your compact tractor contact Beckside Machinery www.becksidemachinery.co.uk .We stock reconditioned Kubotas, new Kiotii and Branson compact tractors and attachments.