Summer Use of Tractors

High temperatures in summer require extra care when operating tractors in hot environments. Pay close attention to the following issues.
1. Cautious Handling of "Boiling Over": When the coolant boils over, handle it cautiously. The correct procedure is to run the engine at medium speed, open the radiator cap to release the hot steam, and wait for it to cool down before slowly adding cold water. When opening the radiator cap, stand upwind and avoid facing the filler neck to prevent burns from the hot steam.
2. Maintain a Clean Cooling System: Before summer arrives, thoroughly clean the cooling system to remove scale and ensure that the water pump and radiator hoses are clear, allowing for normal coolant circulation. Also, remove any weeds or debris adhering to the radiator surface.
3. Prevent Leaks: Coolant leaks often occur at the water pump shaft seal. Tighten the water seal locknut appropriately. If this is ineffective, the packing is worn out and should be replaced immediately. The packing can be made from asbestos rope coated with graphite powder.
4. Pay Attention to Belt Tension: A loose fan belt will slip, reducing the speed of the fan and water pump, resulting in insufficient airflow. A too-tight fan belt will overload the bearings, increasing wear and power consumption. Generally, when pressing the belt in the middle with your thumb, the belt should sag between 10 and 15 millimeters. Adjust it promptly if it is too loose or too tight.
5. Correct Use of Temperature Control Devices: Temperature control devices include automatic types (such as thermostats) and manual types (such as insulation curtains and louvers). Some drivers believe that the lower the water temperature in hot summer weather, the better, and often remove the thermostat. This significantly extends the engine warm-up time during cold starts, accelerating parts wear. Therefore, the thermostat should not be removed in summer. Insulation curtains and louvers regulate the airflow through the radiator. In summer, insulation curtains are generally unnecessary, and louvers should be fully open.
6. Correct Fuel Selection: In high summer temperatures, use diesel fuel with a higher cloud point and ensure the correct fuel advance angle. Also, pay special attention to preventing fuel leaks, as leaks not only waste fuel but can also cause fires. In addition to diesel fuel, lubricating oil and grease should be selected according to the specifications for summer use. Some tractors have an oil temperature reversing valve; during seasonal maintenance, this valve should be turned to direct the oil to the oil cooler.
7. Pay Attention to Battery Maintenance: In summer, the water in the battery electrolyte evaporates easily, so pay special attention to checking the battery fluid level. The normal fluid level should be 10-15 millimeters above the plates. The electrolyte density of the battery should be adjusted according to the regulations. Keep the vent hole on the filler cap clear. Store unused batteries in a cool, ventilated place.
8. Prevent Fuel Vapor Lock: Higher temperatures increase evaporation, making it easier to form vapor locks in the fuel lines. Therefore, clean the fuel filter regularly in summer to keep the fuel lines clear. During driving, cover the fuel pump with a damp cloth and periodically sprinkle water to keep it moist and reduce vapor lock. If a vapor lock occurs, stop immediately to cool down and use a hand fuel pump to fill the fuel lines with fuel.
9. Prevent Engine Detonation: Engine detonation caused by overheating can increase wear on the upper part of the cylinder by 3 to 5 times. Therefore, thoroughly remove carbon deposits from the combustion chamber, valve heads, etc.; check and adjust the fuel supply and timing to prevent detonation.