Prepare Your Compact Utility Tractor for Texas Lawn Care
Spring and Summer in Texas mean it’s time to pull your equipment out of storage and prepare for the upcoming season of hard work! Whether you’re maintaining a few acres or a larger homestead, a John Deere compact utility tractor is your go-to workhorse. Before you ramp up to peak-season use, it’s important to put some time and care into your machine. Here’s a practical guide for Texas homeowners preparing for Spring and Summer lawn care.
Find Your Local Shoppa’s John Deere
1. Give It a Good Cleaning
Before conducting a visual inspection or any maintenance, clean off all dirt, mud, and debris. The off-season can be harsh on equipment, especially if it’s stored outdoors.
- Use a pressure washer or hose to remove grime from the undercarriage and wheel wells.
- Check the radiator screen and air filters. Use pressurized air to clean them out, and change filters if needed.
2. Top Off Fluids
As the temperatures begin to rise, it’s important to be sure that your fluid levels are ready for extended use.
- Change the engine oil, especially if it wasn’t changed at the end of last season.
- Top off or replace coolant, hydraulic fluid, and transmission fluid.
- Run your machine for a few minutes and inspect for any leaks.
3. Inspect Tires
In Texas, fluctuating temperatures can cause tires to lose pressure, resulting in poor traction and potential damage.
- Inspect tires for cracks, rot, and embedded debris.
- Check your manual for recommended PSI, and inflate as needed.
4. Sharpen Blades and Implements
Mowing, aerating, and moving soil can take a toll on your equipment. Here’s how to get your equipment ready:
- Sharpen mower blades for a clean cut–dull blades can stress your grass.
- Grease any moving parts and check PTO connections.
- Inspect blades and gear boxes on your rotary cutter or tiller.
Popular spring implements in Texas include:
- Finish mowers for smoother lawns
- Rotary cutters for larger brush, pasture cleanup, and more
- Box blades or landscape rakes for soil and gravel leveling
5. Test Your Battery
If your tractor sat idle through the off-season, you’ll potentially face battery issues.
- Clean off corrosion from battery terminals.
- Use a multimeter to test voltage.
- If voltage is weak, consider replacing it before getting to work.
6. Grease Moving Parts
Proper lubrication is one of the easiest ways to extend your tractor’s lifespan.
- Grease all zerks–front axle, steering pivots, loader arms, etc.
- Check the operator’s manual for grease schedule, type, and other manufacturer suggestions.
7. Double-Check Safety Features
Terrain in Texas is varied, from hills and dry patches to wet clay. Here’s how you can plan for safety:
- Ensure the rollover protection structure (ROPS) is secure.
- Check that all lights, indicators, and hazard signals function as expected.
- Test brakes and parking brakes before getting to work.
8. Review Your Owner's Manual, and Get to Work!
Every compact tractor has its quirks. Every season, it’s important to flip through your owner’s manual for factory-recommended seasonal tips and reminders. In order to save time and buy peace of mind, consider letting your local Shoppa’s John Deere take care of the maintenance for you! Schedule service now.
Now that your machine’s in shape, it’s time to get to work. Reach out to Shoppa’s John Deere for advice on your specific needs.
Check Out Our Blog: Get the Most Out of Your Compact Tractor