Want to know how to drive a tractor? It’s a common question for those who are planning to get started with homesteading. Read on and get helpful tips on how to drive a tractor safely.
Safety Guide On How To Drive A Tractor
Depending on the attachments, you can actually make your tractor do the hard labor on your homestead. These tasks include digging a foundation, mowing acres of lawn, baling hay, setting fence post, pushing snow, etc.–all of which are possible with the help of a compact tractor. However, it is important that you properly know how to drive a tractor. Whether you are a regular tractor driver, a student, or dreaming to get started with homesteading, you need to know the 10 commandments of how to drive a tractor before it is too late.
1. Get To Know Your Tractor
Get to know your tractor, its controls and how they work, this is the number 1 rule. Keeping the user’s guide handy will allow you to familiarize every part of your tractor and this will help you in operating it safely and properly. And, always keep your tractor in good condition.
2. Never Neglect Using ROPS
Never neglect using ROPS (Rollover Protective Structure) in every application and always wear your seatbelt. Most tractor accidents are due to overturning.
3. Know Your Terrain
Know your terrain and always drive safely. Use extra precautions on slopes, decrease speed on all turns and avoid the highway as much as possible.
4. Don’t Start The Engine In An Enclosed Area
Always remember that you must not start the engine in an enclosed area, such as the garage or shed. Carbon monoxide is odorless and colorless–but hazardous.
5. Keep Your PTO Protected
Always keep your PTO (power takeoff) properly protected. It turns with the power of 500 men and that I believe is unstoppable and extremely dangerous.
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6. Keep Your Hitches Low
Always keep your hitches low and dependable on the drawbar. Otherwise, your tractor may have the tendency to flip over in reverse.
7. Never Bounce Off A Moving Tractor
Never bounce off a moving tractor or abandon it with its motor running. A moving tractor can be extremely risky and deadly.
8. Do Not Refuel Your Engine When It’s Hot or Running
Do not refuel your engine when it’s hot or running and never put water on the radiator when the engine is still hot, hot water can scald and erupt. Gasoline is not only flammable, but it is also explosive in vapor form. The best time to refuel your tractor is during night time after all the day’s work is done so the engine will have enough time to cool down. This also helps in preventing condensation that normally occurs overnight in an empty or partially full tank.
9. Watch Out For Children
Watch out for children, never let them be around the tractor. A tractor’s task is not for children.
10. Never Be On The Rush
Never be in a rush if your task has something to do with your tractor. I believe it has been established that a tractor is a very powerful machine that can cause serious harm t0 you and even to your property so make sure to take all the time you need when doing chores involving your tractor.
Always remember and follow these commandments my fellow homesteaders as this is for your own safety. If you have any questions do not hesitate to consult your dealer.
Want to see how to drive a tractor in action? Check out this video from How Farms Work:
That’s all for now, my fellow homesteaders! Remember safety is an affair of our patience and common sense. I believe all machines, like tractors, are created with our comfort and security in mind. However, tractors, just like any machine, are a collection of moving parts with no heart and brain. So the responsibility for its safety operation rests on the shoulders of its operators and that’s us!
Did you find this helpful and interesting? Let us know what are your thoughts are in the comments below.
Do you want to know what essential tools you should have in your homestead? As a homeowner, you should have every tool necessary to be self-sufficient. Check out the essential tools every homeowner should have for their homestead!
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