Reed Turner, consulting engineer for Agtech Center in Alberta, Canada, spoke at the Conservation Tillage Conference in Fergus Falls, MN. He offered numerous tips for preparing your tractor and tires for fieldwork and planting. From ballasting to fuel quality, Turner explains what you should do to ensure optimal tractor and tire performance this spring.

BATTERY
Check to see if the battery is properly charged. It should have a voltage output of 12.4 volts or greater, with the key OFF. Stabilized voltage after five to ten minutes of operation at 1200 – 1500 rpm will range from: 13.2 volts at 100°F (38°C); 14.2 volts at 70° F (21°C); to 15.2 volts at 32° F (0°C).

Check and clean all battery cable connections yearly.

Be sure the battery cable connections are securely clamped to the battery posts.

Check the battery cable connections for signs of corrosion.
If rust or corrosion is found, clean the battery cable connections with a solution of baking soda and water. (2 or 3 tablespoons baking soda to 1 cup water.) Pour the solution over the connections, brush with a wire brush, and rinse with cold water.

Apply a light coating of petroleum jelly to the terminals to prevent corrosion.
Check battery fluid, be sure battery hold-down clamps are secure and the battery area is clear and clean. Do not use an exposed flame and do not smoke when checking the battery electrolyte level.

ALTERNATOR/FAN BELT:
In order for the battery to hold a charge, it’s important that the alternator belt doesn’t slip.

Check the alternator terminal ends and clean and tighten as necessary.

Visually inspect the condition of the alternator wiring for breaks or signs of wear.

Check the condition of the fan belt for signs of wear and to make sure the tension is correct.

Clean the alternator cooling fan periodically. A visual inspection will tell you when it needs to be cleaned.

ELECTRICAL HARNESSES/CONNECTORS/FUSES:
Inspect electrical harnesses and connectors yearly for visible damage.
If damage is found, contact your New Holland dealer for repairs or replacement.
When checking the condition of fuses, use a Multimeter to accurately determine the condition of the fuse. (Visual inspection of the fuse can be misleading.)

Always replace fuses, maxi fuses, or fusible links with the correct part number or similar part with the same amperage rating.

GROUND WIRE CONNECTORS:
Whether equipped with a cab or a ROPS unit, every New Holland tractor has a central location of multiple terminals or a “ground bank” where a number of ground wires are accumulated. For specific grounds locations, refer to your Operator’s Manual.

Completely loosen the ground connection mounting bolt.

Clean paint and corrosion from the metal mounting surface by using a fine Emory cloth.

Clean each ground connector separately, on both sides of the terminal.

Reinstall the ground connectors, stacking the small terminal on top of the large terminal, and tighten the mounting bolt securely.