The battery in your tractor is just one component of the electrical system which keeps your tractor running properly.
A poor battery on a cold or wet day or night can cause a lot of headaches and if you’re unlucky you will have stopped the tractor in some part of your yard where you can’t easily access it.
If your tractor has a front loader you will more than likely have left it on the ground, which can lead to a bit of added hassle.
Depending on the tractor, the battery is situated under the bonnet or under the cab, while most batteries are under covers when they are not found under the bonnet.
There are many different types of batteries available, they come in varying sizes while the position of the poles and their amps may also be different.
Identifying the battery in your tractor
The majority batteries have a label which tells you the amp hours, cold cranking power and model.
Label on a tractor battery
However, to most people this means nothing and generally people don’t worry about it. But this information is important, as it tells you the battery capacity.
The bigger the amp hours the longer lasting the battery will be when you are trying to start the engine.
Meanwhile, the cold cranking power refers to the rating used to tell you the ability of the battery to start an engine in cold temperatures.
The higher these values are the better it is for you as it all works together to help you start the engine of your tractor. Batteries are like tractors they have different makes and models.
Label on a tractor battery
All of this information should be displayed on a sticker on the battery. The label usually has a three digit number on it which you can use when ordering a new battery.
This number will help your tractor dealer or motor factors identify which battery is in your tractor.
But if your battery has lost the information sticker you will have to measure the length, width and height of your old battery as well as the position of the poles on it.
Changing your battery
When changing your battery it is advisable to remove the negative lead first and then the positive one, then when the battery is ready to be replaced the the positive lead should be attached first.
It is also recommended to clean the battery clamps before you refit them and when they are attached to apply some petroleum jelly.
This will help keep the clamps in good condition and protect them from moisture.
It is also important to wear goggles and to be careful of acid spills, as it will burn through your cloths and skin.
If you are unsure about any of the steps it may be best to contact your dealer and they can fit the battery for you.
By Stephen McEvoy, Mechanic at WR Shaw
