How to Operate a Tractor
- 1). Familiarize yourself with the operating manual before operating a tractor. Keep the manual stored on the tractor for quick reference.
- 2). Determine if you are physically capable to operate a tractor. There is a high potential for injury while operating a tractor, so you should be sober, in good health, and not on any sedative medication, such as tranquilizers or a benzodiazepine. Tie back long hair, remove any jewelry and wear snug-fitting clothing and work boots.
- 3). Perform a safety check on the tractor before getting into the driver's set. Walk around the tractor and check for any obstacles or debris. Check the tires to make sure they are inflated, remove the cap of the radiator to check that it has the proper coolant level, and check the ground underneath the tractor for any oil, fuel or coolant leaks. Make sure you have a fire extinguisher in proper working order on the tractor in case of fire.
- 4). Climb into the driver's seat using the handholds and access steps. Do not jump on or off the tractor, and only operate the controls of the tractor while sitting in the driver's seat. Adjust the seat height and mirrors so that you can see and operate the controls comfortably. Put on the seat belt. Before turning on the tractor, check the operating manual so that you know where the controls are and what each control does.
- 5). Check for obstacles while driving the tractor, such as pets, people and debris. Watch out for cars while on the highway or the road as a tractor moves much slower than cars; and because of this, accidents are liable to occur. Drive carefully on uneven ground, and take turns slowly or you run the risk of overturning the tractor. Keep the tractor away from ditches, banks and wet surfaces.
- 6). Exercise caution when driving the tractor up hills or slopes. Descend and ascend straight up and down the slope at its lowest point instead of cutting across on a diagonal. If the tractor has a clutch, put the tractor into the correct gear before going up the slope and engage the tractor in four-wheel drive. Descend straight down the slope at its lowest point instead of cutting across diagonally.
- 7). Examine any machinery, such as trailers or lifts, to make sure they are in proper working order before using them with the tractor. Check to make sure the brakes on the machine are functional and that the trailer is not overloaded. If you hitch a chain or tow rope to the tractor, hitch it as low to the ground as possible. Chains and two ropes hitched too high can cause the machine or tractor to overturn. Add ballast weight to the front or rear of the tractor, when using a machine, to balance out the tractor and prevent overturning.
- 8). Stop the tractor completely before leaving the seat or when anyone approaches or works on the tractor. Fully apply the hand brake, stop the engine, remove the key then unbuckle the seat belt. If the tractor is carrying a heavy load, do not park the tractor on a slope.
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