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Proper Maintenance & Operation of Kubota Tractors - Winter Seasonal Changes

12/19/2018

SETTING THE STANDARD FOR RELIABILITY, PERFORMANCE AND VERSATILITY

With machines ranging from 18.0 to 168.0 horsepower, Kubota has the tractor you need to get the job done. And they prove their worth even on your most difficult days. No matter the size of the project, whether you’re moving tons of earth or just cutting your lawn, Kubota will never let you down. And we have some tips for continuing that performance over the coming months!

IS YOUR KUBOTA TRACTOR READY FOR WINTER?

With seasonal change, your reliable Kubota tractor faces a new set of demands. Winter, in particular, offers a new set of challenges for your equipment, and you. Changes in temperature and less frequent use chief among them. But, with proper maintenance you can keep your Kubota tractor ready to perform all winter long.

STEP ONE: GET TO KNOW YOUR MACHINE

Familiarize yourself with your model specific recommendations in your tractor’s operator’s manual. This is the first place to look whenever you have questions about your Kubota. If you no longer have or can’t find your Kubota operator’s manual, you can order a replacement here.

TWO: MAKE SURE MACHINE MAINTENANCE IS UP TO DATE

  • Check fluid levels daily
  • Cleaner engine oil as well as transmission fluid will lubricate better and reach operating temperature sooner
  • Use manufacture recommended oil (Kubota 10W-40), hydraulic fluid, and lubricants, such as SUPER UDT2 or UDT HD(M7 Tractors), listed in operator’s manual. See your local Kubota Dealer to purchase any parts, oil, lubricants or for any service needs for your piece of equipment
  • Ensure you have proper coolant levels. Use manufacture recommended mixture, test antifreeze to ensure it is the appropriate mixture
  • Keep your battery charged

NEXT: A FEW EASY-TO-FOLLOW OPERATION TIPS

  • Familiarize yourself and the operators with the appropriate warning lights that may appear on the dash such as frozen DEF fluid
  • Pre-heat the engine, allowing the glow plugs to warm up, before starting
  • Allow tractor to warm up at an idle in extremely cold temperatures
  • Let the machine continue running during small breaks in work

    Make sure tire pressure is still set appropriately per tire manufacturers recommendations

  • Avoid using liquid ballast that can freeze in tires, your local Kubota dealer offers cast rear wheels, wheel weights, and ballast boxes that allow you to avoid using liquid ballast in your tires
  • Install/Use block heater in extremely cold temperatures
  • Store DEF fluid in an area where it will not get too cold or too warm, that can lessen the shelf life of the DEF fluid. Store between 40° and 80° F (5°-27° C) for optimal shelf life
  • Ensure you are using fresh, clean fuel
    • No. 2-D S15 diesel Fuel
    • No. 1 D S15 diesel fuel if temperature is below 14° F (-10° C) 

IN CLOSING, REMEMBER THESE FIVE ESSENTIAL WINTER GUIDLINES

  • A proper warm-up is essential
  • Check fluid levels regularly, especially oil
  • Choose your fuel for cold weather performance
  • Prevent water from getting into your fuel
  • Make certain your battery is strong

Any questions?

If you have any questions about maintaining your Kubota tractor over the winter months, contact your authorized Kubota dealer. They have the answers and are excited to help.

Get to know Kubota:

“For Earth, For Life” is much more than Kubota's brand statement. It's a mission we dedicate ourselves as a global company. We are committed to engineering excellence so that our customers can focus on planting, feeding, building and caring for our world. We welcome you to explore and learn more about Kubota.