Storage; Causes Of Damage; Tractor Storage - Nortrac XT20 Owner's Manual

When the tractor needs to be stored for a period of time (more than one month) it should be kept in proper
storage building. The storage facility should provide protection from the elements so as to prevent dirt rust
and corrosion.
Before storing the tractor, it must undergo a thorough cleaning, adjustment and tightening of various joint parts,
subject to the technical maintenance requirements, in compliance with the duty hours, so that the tractor remains
on good technical condition.
IMPORTANT NOTE: During long periods of non-use, it is very important to preserve and maintain
the tractor. If special steps are not taken, the life of the tractor could be shortened and parts could
deteriorate.
5.1 Causes of the Damages
There are several main causes of tractor damage while in storage:
•
Rust: During the storage period, dust and moisture in the air get in to the tractor. This can cause
contamination and rusting of the components. When pistons, valves, bearing and gears, etc. stay
in one place for an extended period of time, they will lose lubricant film protection, which
produces rust and causes parts to stick and seize up.
•
Aging: Some components are made with rubber and plastic. Rubber and plastic will age and
deteriorated, growing brittle and rot under ultraviolet light.
•
Distortion: Components such as drive belt and tires etc may become distorted in shape.
•
Others: Electric parts are more easily affected in damp conditions and the battery can discharge
over time.

5.2 Tractor Storage

•
Prior to storing the tractor, give the tractor and its surroundings a good once over to ensure that
the tractor can be stored with minimal effect
•
Remove the battery, coat the terminals with petroleum jelly and keep it in a dark, well-ventilated
room with a consistent moderate temperature.
•
Drain the machine oil from the engine before it has a chance to cool. Replace the oil with fresh
oil and run the tractor for 10 minutes to allow the lubricant to stick to the parts and components.
•
Add lubricant to the various lubrication points.
•
Coat the contact surface of the electric appliances, tie-ins and non-painted metal parts with
anti-corrosion spray.
•
Loosen the engine fan belt and remove them if necessary. Wrap the belts up securely and spray the
pulley groove with a rust-proof agent. If possible, cover all chips and unpainted spots on the tractor
with a preservative.
•
Drain the diesel fuel from the tank or add diesel fuel conditioner.
•
Seal any engine opening such as intakes/outlets with the protective material to prevent
foreign matter, dust and moisture from getting in.
•
Place all control handles in the neutral gear position (including electrical system switches and the
stationary brake system).

Storage

5. Storage
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