Old tractors are riding a big wave of popularity for several reasons. Some people have sentimental memories of a favorite tractor from their youth. Other people like old tractors because they’re easier to maintain as a do-it-yourselfer than modern tractors filled with computer chips. Today old tractors are doing everything from still working the fields to entertaining people in parades and festivals.
Tractor maintenance can range from basic upkeep for a working tractor to complete restoration projects for ones that have stood idle for a while. Either way, it’s possible to source parts to keep tractors built long ago in working order.
Finding replacement parts for old tractors
1) Starters: The starter is an electrical component that engages a flywheel to start the engine. If your tractor has a hard time starting, or doesn’t start at all, the starter is a prime suspect. Wear, corrosion and moisture can all degrade a starter over time.
2) Alternators: Electrical power to start the engine and operate accessories like lights is generated by the alternator. It works in close partnership with the battery. In fact, if one is weak, it can adversely impact the performance of the other. A dying alternator may give signals such as dimming and fluctuating lights. If you see those signs, it’s best to check the health of your alternator before it gives out altogether.
Find tractor alternators here.
3) Water Pumps: Engines run hot and depend on the water pump to circulate coolant to maintain an optimal operating temperature. Water pumps can fail due to common usage, leaky seals or compromised bearings. When any of these problems occur, the engine can overheat quickly.
Find tractor water pumps here.
4) Radiators: Coolant flows into the radiator to release heat. Pressure and heat can degrade the performance of a radiator over time. Typical failure issues include leaks, corrosion, blockages and broken fins. A compromised radiator will lead to overheating. Closely related to the role of the radiator, radiator hoses are important links in the transport of coolant.
5) Fuel Pumps: Fuel is transferred from the tank to the engine via the fuel pump. When the pump starts to fail, problems ranging from difficulty starting the engine to rough running and engine stalls can occur. Because of inconsistent fuel delivery, you may experience anything from sluggish operation to surges of power.
6) Sediment Bowls: The sediment bowl is admittedly a small part in the scheme of things, but it plays a big role in keeping your engine clean. Sediment bowls trap particles to reduce residue build up. Periodically replacing the sediment bowl can lead to smoother operation for your tractor.
Find tractor sediment bowls here.
7) Lights: Sometimes it’s tempting to just keep working on a tractor even if it has a burned-out light, but it’s one of those things that should be addressed for safety reasons. Today, many tractor owners are taking advantage of the new LED lights that brighten the field with greater intensity. Making the change to LED lights for tractors is something to consider.
Keep old tractors working into the future
Whether you own an old tractor that you want to keep operational or you are considering an ambitious tractor restoration project, it’s still very possible to find essential parts for older models that came off the assembly line years or even decades ago. You can find many of those parts on DB Electrical and even more on a specialty site called Complete Tractor.
