Tips for Using Tractor Attachments

Tractors are powerful pieces of agricultural equipment that bring tons of utility to any growing operation. But even the toughest, most reliable equipment needs the right implements and attachments to apply all that power to precise work. There are tons of different attachments to choose from, whether you need tillage, mowing, or even excavation. Knowing how your equipment operates with these other implements is key to any productive tractor use.

At Nova International, we want our customers to have a strong understanding of how their equipment operates and how it can help them get more work done in less time. When it comes to tractors, that means implements. Read on for the basics of tractor attachments or head into one of our Atlantic Canada dealerships for a look at some great new and used equipment.

Before You Begin

The first step to any equipment use is to take a look at the owner’s manual. This goes for whether you’re using an implement for the first time or if you’re a veteran. Each tractor is different, and so is each attachment and implement. Always read the owner’s manual for specific guidelines and information straight from the manufacturer. Reading and understanding the information you’ll find there is the best foundation for using your tractor and implements.

Before using an implement, ensure the equipment is in good shape. That means checking all the guards and shields are in place and operating correctly, as well as the guards around power take-off shafts, gearbox, and any other moving part of the equipment. Examine any hydraulic lines for leaks or other damage, and make sure the connections are tight and secure.

Loading Implements

Tractor hitches are designed so the downward and rear force during a pull are below the tractor’s center of gravity. Keep the angle of pull low by always hitching to the drawbar. Pulling anything with an angle above the center of gravity is bound to result in an overturn. Even smaller lawn or garden tractors can flip without a proper hitch.

For hitching to a drawbar, start by positioning your tractor to align the hole in the drawbar with the one in the hitch (don’t worry if it takes a few tries to line it up correctly, as this takes some practice). Stop the engine and put your tractor in park or else set the brakes. Attach the implement, making sure to use the right hitch pin and security clip — don’t just use whatever is lying around! Raise the implement jack stand and make sure the wheels can move freely. Then connect the PTO shaft, hydraulic hoses, and any electrical connections as required by the specific equipment.

For a 3-point hitch, start by moving the tractor drawbar forward, then position the tractor so the pin holes and draft arms are closely aligned with implement hitch points. Raise or lower the draft arms as necessary to match the hitch points. With the equipment off and brake engaged, attach the left draft arm (using the right sized hitch pin and clip!), then adjust and connect the right arm. After that, you can start the tractor and raise the arms with hydraulics as needed. Then match the top link of the 3-point hitch to the implement’s upper hitch point. Raise the lift arms to lengthen the reach or drive ahead with implement down to adjust if needed. The implement may not be level if the upper link has been adjusted too many times, so you might need to re-level before you can safely operate the implement. Finally, attach the upper hitch pin and security clip.

Using Implements

There are several ways implements get their power, usually PTO, hydraulics, or just being dragged behind the tractor. Here are some quick tips for different operation methods.

Ground-Driven

Implements like disks, harrows, rakes, and some spreaders are often ground-driven, meaning they operate just by the turning of the wheels when being pulled by the drawbar. Many of these implements are substantially wider than your tractor, so it’s important to account for that additional width (and make sure you pull them in to “transportation position” when traveling on public roads).

Power Take-Off

PTO transfers power directly from your tractor’s drivetrain to the implement, making it an extremely common and important method of power. However, PTO adds some extra safety measures to your tractor’s operation, and you shouldn’t take it lightly. The PTO spins quickly enough to grab and pull anything in and under the tractor, so loose clothing and long hair are not advised for operators. Always ensure all the guards and shields are in good repair, and always make sure to do any hitching and connecting with the tractor powered down. Check your owner’s manual for all proper safety procedures.

Hydraulic

Hydraulics use pressurized liquid to transfer power to implements. Since hydraulic fluid will always be pressurized, always wear the right safety glasses or face shield and gloves when working with these systems. For hydraulics to function correctly, they need to have clean oil and proper lubrication to avoid overheating. The extreme pressures also make leaks likely, so any sign of leaking fluid is a sure sign to stop working hydraulics and power down until the problem can be addressed.

We hope some of these tips help you with attaching and using implements. Be careful and follow the safety precautions outlined in your owner’s manual. If you need additional help, don’t hesitate to call or head into Nova International. Our team of experts will be more than happy to answer your questions and help you find what you’re looking for. Come in today! We proudly serve those in Windsor and Aylesford, Nova Scotia, as well as Salisbury, New Brunswick.