If you are looking to invest in a secondhand tractor, it is important that you understand how to assess the condition of the machine before you sign on the dotted line and part with your money. Tractors can undergo a lot of wear and tear when performing farm work, so you need to be sure that you are getting good value for your money. Read on to discover the different areas of a tractor you need to pay special attention to.

1. The bodywork

You should begin by taking a look at the general appearance of the machine. The condition of the bodywork can tell you a lot about how well the tractor has been looked after during its working life. If you notice a lot of scratches and dents, this could suggest that the machine has been driven hard or neglected which could affect its performance. You should also look out for signs of rust, which could suggest that the tractor has been kept outdoors.

2. The tyres

Next, move on to the tyres. Carefully check that the tyres are not damaged and that the tread is the correct depth. Bringing a small ruler will allow you to quickly take a measurement of the tread depth. Because of their size, replacement tractor tyres can be expensive, so it is best to look for a machine with good wheels.

3. The cab

Finally, you should open up the cab and look inside. The first thing you should do is sit in the driver's seat and examine the controls. The steering wheel should move freely as should the gears when you move the gear stick to select them. Climbing into the cab will also give the chance to start the engine so you can hear how it sounds. The engine should produce a steady sound. If you notice any uneven or rough sounds coming from the engine, this could be an indication that the tractor has a mechanic fault. When inside the cab, you should take a look to see how clean the seat and floor is. While it is unlikely that a working farm vehicle will be spotlessly clean, the level of dirt and grime could be an indication of how well the tractor has been cared for.

If you would like to find out more, you should get in touch with a company which specialises in advertising tractors for sale.