Preparing Tractors for Winter Storage — Flushing Fluids, Battery Care, and More

1. Clean Your Tractor Thoroughly

Wash exterior surfaces to remove dirt, dust, and crop residue. Leftover debris can trap moisture and cause rust.

Blow out radiator fins to prevent blockages that can lead to overheating later.

Remove mud and plant matter from undercarriage and wheel wells to avoid corrosion.

2. Inspect and Flush Fluids

Engine oil and filter: Drain old oil, as contaminants can cause corrosion during storage. Replace with fresh oil and a new filter.

Coolant system: Flush the radiator and refill with a proper antifreeze mix to prevent freezing and cracking.

Fuel system: Top off the fuel tank and add a stabilizer to prevent condensation and gumming. For diesel engines, use a winter-grade fuel or a fuel conditioner to prevent gelling.

Hydraulic and transmission fluids: Check for leaks and top up as required. If fluids are dirty or overdue, replace them.

3. Battery Care

Clean battery terminals and apply dielectric grease to prevent corrosion.

Fully charge the battery before storage.

Disconnect or remove the battery and store it in a dry, cool place. Trickle-charge it every few weeks to maintain health.

4. Tire Maintenance

Check tire pressure and inflate to recommended PSI to prevent flat spots.

Inspect for cracks or cuts that could worsen in freezing weather.

If possible, lift tractor slightly or move it periodically during storage to reduce stress on tires.

5. Protect Fuel and Engine Components

Fogging oil: Spray into the intake and cylinders to coat internal parts and prevent rust.

Check air filters: Replace or clean them to avoid clogging come spring.

Seal exhaust and intake openings with covers or tape to stop rodents and moisture from entering.

6. Electrical System and Wiring

Inspect for frayed wires or exposed connections.

Use rodent deterrents around wiring, as mice and squirrels often chew insulation during winter.

7. Lubrication and Greasing

Grease all fittings, joints, and linkages to prevent rust and keep parts moving freely.

Apply a thin coat of oil to exposed metal parts (like hydraulic cylinders) to protect against moisture.

8. Storage Environment

Store tractor in a dry, sheltered location like a barn, shed, or garage.

Use a breathable tractor cover to shield against dust and moisture, but avoid fully sealing with plastic tarps which trap condensation.

Place wooden planks under tires if storing on bare ground or concrete to reduce moisture absorption.

9. Final Safety Checks

Ensure parking brake is released to prevent it from sticking.

Place blocks behind wheels for stability.

Double-check that all implements are detached, cleaned, and stored properly.

10. Spring Preparation Reminder

Create a small service log of what was done before storage (fluids replaced, battery removed, parts greased). This makes spring startup smoother and ensures nothing is overlooked.

✅ By following this checklist, you’ll protect your tractor from winter damage, extend its lifespan, and guarantee it’s ready for reliable performance when the next season begins. Need Guidance - Contact Tracsol Automotive today