Start-of-season tractor checklist: 20 points to check before you start

Why this checklist is essential

After 3 to 5 months of winter storage, a tractor isn't ready to fire right up. Seals dry out, batteries discharge, rodents move in, condensation builds up. A methodical check before the season prevents breakdowns in the field — where they cost the most (in time, stress, and money).

Estimated time: 2 to 3 hours for a complete check. It's an investment that can save you days of downtime.

Fluids (5 points)

1. Engine oil — Check the dipstick level. If the oil is black and smells of diesel, condensation diluted the oil during storage. Mandatory oil change before starting.

2. Coolant — Check the level at the expansion tank. Test antifreeze concentration with a refractometer (protection to -37°C minimum). If the fluid is cloudy or rusty, replace it.

3. Hydraulic/transmission oil — Check the level at the dipstick or sight glass. Oil should be clear, not milky (water) or black (past overheating).

4. Diesel fuel — If the tank was left partially full, condensation may have accumulated. Drain the fuel filter water separator. Ideally, top up with fresh diesel.

5. Brake fluid (if separate circuit) — Check the level. Brake fluid absorbs moisture — if it's been more than 2 years, replace it.

Filters (4 points)

6. Oil filter — If the oil change is due, change it with the oil.

7. Fuel filter + pre-filter — After storage, diesel can form deposits. Replace at the slightest doubt.

8. Air filter — Remove and inspect. Blow with compressed air (from inside to outside). If the filter is oil-soaked or torn, replace.

9. Hydraulic return filter — If the interval is close (> 400h), take advantage of the season start to change it.

Electrical (4 points)

10. Battery — Measure voltage: > 12.4 V = OK. Clean terminals, grease with technical petroleum jelly. If the battery is over 4 years old, plan a preventive replacement.

11. Lighting — Test ALL lights: headlights, work lights, turn signals, hazard lights, clearance lights. In season, you often work early morning or late evening.

12. Starter — Try to start. If the starter is slow or hesitant, check ground cables and connections before replacing.

13. Alternator — Engine running, check battery terminal voltage: 13.8-14.4 V. Below that, the alternator isn't charging properly.

Mechanical (4 points)

14. Belts — Inspect all accessible belts (alternator, fan, A/C). Look for cracks, fraying, glazing. Check tension.

15. Leaks — Visually inspect under the tractor and around the engine. Oil stains, coolant traces, hydraulic leaks. Identify the source before starting.

16. PTO — Check spline play, grease the output shaft. Test engagement/disengagement.

17. Steering — Engine running, verify steering responds immediately with no tight spots. Excessive play or delay = urgent inspection.

Running gear (3 points)

18. Tire pressures — Check all 4 tires with a gauge. After storage, tires typically lose 0.2-0.4 bar.

19. Tire condition — Inspect sidewalls (cracks, bulges), lugs (wear, foreign objects) and valves.

20. Wheel torque — Re-check all wheel nut torque to specification. Nuts can loosen from vibrations during the last use.

Bonus: pests

Undetected rodent damage can cause a short circuit or coolant leak during work.

Print this checklist

Post it in the workshop and tick off each point one by one. It's the best insurance against a day-one breakdown.

Try L'Atelier free for 10 days — no credit card required. Find maintenance intervals, torque specs, and fluid specifications for your tractor.