Tractors Overview/Introduction Tractors are often the most expensive, sophisticated and potentially dangerous piece of equipment used on a farm. Tractor operators need to perform basic maintenance checks and be familiar with the location and understand the operation of each control lever or button on the tractor before attempting to use the machine. Regular maintenance checks will help to keep the machine in good working order and prevent unnecessary breakdowns at critical times. Care needs to be taken at all times when using a machine to prevent unnecessary damage to the machine, the operator and surrounding environment Learning Outcome/Objectives: Atthe end of this chapter, the students shall be able to: 1. Differentiate parts of a four- and two-wheel tractor 2. Differentiate operation and maintenance of tractors 3. Identify the different besic controls common to all agricultural tractors. Learning Content/Discussion: ‘Two Wheel Tractors This is a walking type tractor also known as Walking tractor (Power tiller). This tractor is usually fitted with two wheels only. The direction of travel and its controls for field operation is performed by the operator, walking behind the tractor.Fig. Basic Parts of a Two Wheel Tractor (pull type) Fig. PTO Driven Rotary Tiller\— Tenens ox \— rare ‘Axel Driven Rotary Tiller Four Wheel Tractors These are tractors having four ar more pneumatic wheelsTwo Wheel Drive Tractor Four Wheel Drive TractorTypical Controls of a Four-Wheel Tractor Crawler Tractor This is also called track type tractor or chain type tractor. In such tractors, there is endless chain or track in place of pneumatic wheels. Tractor’s Controls These are devices (typically levers and switches) designed to give the operator a means of communication with the tractor and the ability to regulate and command the tractor to perform all desired responses. The controls are located within reach from the operator's seat, Agricultural tractors have three basic type of controls. 1. Foot controls - these controls are operated by the operator's feet. 2. Hand controls - these controls are operated by the operator's hands. 3. Combination controls - these controls can be operated by the operator's feet and/or hands. The most common is the engine speed control. Basic Controls Common to All Agricultural Tractors 1. Brake control - this gives the operator control over stopping, turning, and parking, 2. Clutch control - this allows the operator to engage or disengage power to moving parts of the tractor. A clutch control can be considered the go-no-go control. This includes: traction controls, combination traction and brake controls, PTO controls, and field implement controls.3. Engine speed control (throttle)- this allows the operator to regulate the revolutions per minute (RPM's) of the engine. 4, Ground speed and directional controls (transmission gears)- these controls give the operator control over ground speed (how fast you are traveling) and direction (forward or reverse). 5. Differential lock - this control locks together the rotation of the main drive wheels, 6. Steering control - better known as the steering wheel - gives the operator the ability to turn right or left while moving in either a forward or reverse direction. 7. Electrical controls - these controls are either on or off. Electrical controls activate accessories such as the engine starter and lights. 8. Engine stop controls - on gasoline engines, it stops the spark going to the spark plugs; on some gasoline and all diesel engines, it shuts off the fuel to the engine. Stop controls can be either electrically or manually (push-pull) activated. 9. 9. Lift controls for implements or equipment - these are typically hand type controls and give the operator the ability to position or maneuver any attachments into a desired position. Instruments. These are the devices that allow the tractor to communicate with the operator and notify him/her of safe and/or unsafe conditions. Instruments may be in the form of a warning light, analog geuge, or digital display. 1. Engine speed indicator (tachometer)- this indicator identifies the engine speed in revolutions per minute (RPM). 2. Oll pressure indicator - the oil pressure indicator will either tell the operator the actual oll pressure or warn of low oil pressure during engine operation. 3. Engine temperature indicator- the engine temperature indicator will either indicate actual operating temperature or notify the operator of an unsafe operating condition. 4. Electrical system condition - this is commonly referred to as the battery condition indicator. However, its actual purpose is to indicate if the electrical charging system is supplying adequate voltage to maintain all electrical components while in operation. 5. Miscellaneous instruments - some manufacturers include a variety of other instruments. Some additional indicators may include: fuel gauge, coolant level, filter condition, transmission temperature, hydraulic oil level and many more. Pre-operational Check Battery condition - when checking the battery, safety has priority over everything you do. When checking the battery, the operator should 1. Wear the proper safety equipment. (gloves, apron, face shield, etc.) 2. Keep fire or flame away from the battery. 3. Inspect for loose and/or corroded connections. 4, Inspect electrolyte level (fiuid level). (not required on maintenance free battaries) 5. Inspect battery hold down. -- Battery should be secure and unable to move around. 6. Inspect condition of cables (cracked, chaffed, torn, or melted insulation) 7. Look for cleanliness of the battery top. --No build-up of dirt. Fuel level - check the fuel level by removing the fuel cap and visually checking the level in the tank. The fuel level may also be read from a fuel gauge if the tractor is so equipped. 1. Coolant - check the coolant level by removing the radiator cap and visually checking for the proper level, 2. Allow the engine to cool until the radiator is cool to the touchOil (engine) - check the oil level by removing the dip stick and reading the level indicated on the dip stick. Oil (hydraulic) - Check the transmission and hydraulic oil levels according to the operator's manual. * check for any wet or damp areas on the machinery as well as any puddles on the floor or ground under the agricultural tractor. + Check tire condition by looking for cuts, bruises or breaks in the sidewalls, excessive weathering, uneven tread wear, damp spots on tires filled with fluid, and air pressure, See the operator’s manual for correct air pressure, + Check for any loose or missing bolts, pins, wiring, or shields. Tighten all loose accessories and guards and replace anything found defective. Air filter - check the air filter every day. Platform - should be clear of any trash, mud or other clutter and have an anti-slip surface, Seat - should be adjustable and positioned to where the operator can reach all Controls comfortably. The seat should also be equipped with a seat belt if a Roll Over Protective Structure (ROPS) is attached to the tractor. Controls - should all be identifiable and within comfortable reach of the operator and functional + Instruments - should all be identifiable, functional, and readable from the operator's seat. + ROPS - should be atteched according to the operator's manual with no unauthorized modifications. + Check mirrors for adjustment and cleanliness. Check for proper ballasting (weights) Check for properly attached connections, and that you have the proper size tractor for the job. Pre-start Checklist Make sure everyone is clear: no one else should be on or next to the agricultural tractor. If parked inside a bullding, open doors to allow for adequate ventilation during starting. Properly mount the tractor and adjust the operator's seat. Fasten seat belt if tractor is equipped with a ROPS. Check all controls: + Place hydraulic controls in a neutral or static position + Place three-point lift control in a down or locked position. + Put PTO in an off or disengaged position. + Place brakes in a set or locked position. * Set ground speed and directional controls in neutral or park position. Clutch pedal is in disengaged position. ‘Tum ignition switch to “On” position and check gauges and warning lights for operation. Starting a tractor from the ground can result in the tractor riding you instead of you riding it. Pre-start Safety + Never start a tractor while standing on the ground. + Always start from the operator's seat.Safe Operating Procedures Watch where you are going, especially at row ends, on roads, and around trees and low hanging obstacles. When backing, use a spotter to guide you when your vision is blocked. To avoid upsets, drive the tractor with care and at speeds compatible with safety, especially when operating over rough ground, when crossing ditches or slopes, and when turning comers. Avoid operating the tractor near ditches, embankments, and holes. Stay off slopes too steep for safe operation. ‘Travel straight up or down a steep slope rather than across it. Lock tractor brake pedals together when transporting on roads to provide two-wheel braking Keep brakes evenly adjusted to provide even braking when brakes are locked together, Keep the tractor in the same gear when going downhill as used when going uphil Do not coast or free wheel down hills Any towed vehicle whose total weight exceeds that of the towing tractor must be equipped with brakes for safe operation. Always check overhead clearance, especially when transporting the tractor or towing high objects. When operating at night, adjust lights to prevent blinding an oncoming driver. Make sure seat belt is fastened if ROPS is installed Do not permit others to ride on the tractor. Tractors have only one seat for one person. Operate the tractor smoothly - no jerky turns, starts or stops. Hitch only to the drawbar and hitch points recommended. When the tractor is stopped, be sure the brakes are securely set, Never use attachments unless they are properly matches to your tractor, Operate controls only from the operator's seat. Never leave the tractor unattended with the engine running Pay attention to what you are doing. Never operate nor allow anyone else to operate agricultural tractors or machinery while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Do not let your tractor bounce. You may lose steering control. Do not brake suddenly. Apply brakes smocthly and gradually. Never use a tractor to round up farm animals. Roll-over Warning Carelessness on hillsides, around ditches, near embankments and holes can lead to serious injury or death. ‘Tractor to Equipment Connections Connections can be classified as: + Single point connection (drawbar connection) Three-point connection PTO connection Hydraulic connection Electrical connection Multiple connection consisting of two or more individual type connections. Transportation of Equipment and LoadsHighwe Never exceed the rated load capacities of your tractor. Make sure the tractor is properly ballasted for the equipment and/or load Select a safe ground speed. Always let the engine assist with braking when going down hills. Lock the brakes together. Slow down when making turns and make wide gentle turns, Place all implements into their narrowest transport configuration. Avoid transporting equipment and loads along hillsides and near ditches and holes. Slow down when making turns and make wide gentle turns, Place all implements into their narrowest transport configuration. fay Travel Refer to the operator's manual for transporting instructions. Lock the brake pedals together. Raise all implements to their transport position and lock them in place. Place all implements into their narrowest transport position Disengage PTO and differential lock. Make sure tractor and towed equipment are equipped with SMV (slow moving vehicle) emblems. Make sure any required clearance flags or hazard lights are in place and in working order. Make sure you use a proper safety hitch pin with safety clip retainer. Make sure any towed implements are equipped with a safety chain linking tractor and implement. Clean off all reflectors and road lights, front and rear, and be certain they are in working order. Allowing passengers to ride can become a deadly mistake. Make wide, gentle turns. Signal your intent to slow, stop, or turn. Shift to a lower gear before going up or down hills. Keep tractor in gear. Never coast with clutch disengaged or transmission in neutral. Drive cefensively. Anticipate what other drivers might do. When towing a load, start braking sooner than normal and slow down gradually. Watch out for overhead obstructions. Self-Assessment Questions: 1. What 2. What 3. Why 4. What 5. What t does ROPS mean in relation to tractors? tractor has the most horsepower? are the rear tires on a tractor so large? t is PTO? t is the biggest risk of walking near the operating tractor? References: Philippine Agricultural Engineering Standards PAES 118:2001, Agricultural Machinery Four Wheel Tractor Specifications Rice Machinery Operation Lecture on Land Preparation