Winter Maintenance that lasts all year round

Agricultural journalist, smallholder and Editor of the Ferguson Heritage Magazine Jane Brooks, joins us for her regular look at the world of agricultural machinery.

- Jane Brooks

IT'S BEGINNING TO LOOK A LOT LIKE CHRISTMAS...

While you're snug and warm beside a roaring fire, spare a thought for your tractor, locked away, safe, sound and secure in a shed, of at least you hope so.

Tis the season to take proper care of your tractor otherwise, there could be a few nasty shocks instore for you. Best to take action now before we get any snow, as who knows next time you come to use it or even drag it out of the shed in the spring you could be in for a shock, or even a cracked block.

To avoid breakdowns next here's a simple checklist of some evasive action best taken in the not to-distant future:

Cosset your batteries

Cold weather will wreak havoc on dormant batteries. Over time, batteries begin to lose their charge, on old tractors it happens far more quickly than you expect. Do not let batteries completely drain of charge over the winter as freezing weather can completely kill empty batteries. Either check the battery every couple of weeks, or use the tractor. Also, if you are not using it and have a more modern machine it's a good idea to detach the electronics and tech in your tractor, as they can slowly drain battery power. too.

Stay warm

No, not you, the tractor, an open shed exposed to the elements may seem ok, but if it's possible being stored in a frost proof, wind proof and burglar proof shed or barn is a good idea. As a last resort if you have no inside storage, in extreme conditions, you can also use a heavy, waterproof tarp.

Antifreeze