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Cold Weather Tractor Starting Tips
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Not everyone stores their tractor through the winter. Some need it to plow snow or haul supplies around the farm. As temperatures drop, you may find that your tractor has trouble starting and we’ve got some tips to help you get your tractor fired up.
Park Inside
Storing your tractor inside a barn, shed, or garage will keep it sheltered from the winter elements. Ideally, a heated storage building would ensure your tractor is as warm as can be during the colder months.
Engine Block Heaters
An engine block heater heats the engine block, oil pan, and/or cooling system to prevent the engine from getting too cold. Their pros and cons can be found in our blog post Engine Block Heater Guide.
Fuel Additives
As temperature dip below 15° Fahrenheit, or -9° Celsius, diesel fuel can start to gel. This can clog your fuel tank, lines, filter, and/or injectors. Using an anti-gel additive lowers the gel point of diesel fuel, preventing it from clogging your fuel system.
Oil
Running a multigrade oil will help the engine run smoothly when cold while still providing proper lubrication once warmed up. Switching to a synthetic oil allows the engine to rotate easier, providing less stress on the starter and battery.
Battery
Batteries provide power through an electrochemical reaction. When cold, this chemical reaction slows down and weakens a battery’s power. Either remove the battery and store somewhere warm when not in use or keep the battery on a battery tender to keep it fully charged.
Starter
If you are having trouble starting your tractor, remember to not overload your starter. Let the starter rest for at least two minutes between firing attempts and do not crank it for more than 30 seconds at a time.
Glow Plugs
Glow plugs become less effective as they age and in turn, generate less heat. Inspect your glow plugs to make sure they are operating properly. Don’t forget to warm your glow plugs before attempting to start a cold engine.
If you’re still having trouble starting your tractor, you may want to read our 5-part Tractor Tune-Up Guide.
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