Summer temperatures are high, and tractors operating in high-temperature environments require special attention to the following issues:
1. Handling Overheating: When the coolant boils over, handle it with caution. The correct method is to run the engine at medium speed, open the radiator cap to release the hot steam, and slowly add cold water after it cools down. When opening the radiator cap, the operator should stand upwind and avoid facing the filler neck to prevent burns from the hot steam.
2. Keeping the Cooling System Clean: Before summer arrives, thoroughly clean and descale the cooling system to ensure the water pump and radiator pipes are unobstructed and that coolant circulates properly. Also, promptly remove any weeds or other debris adhering to the radiator surface.
3. Preventing Leaks: Leaks in the cooling system often occur at the water pump bushing. In this case, tighten the water seal nut appropriately. If this is ineffective, the packing has failed and should be replaced immediately. The packing can be made of asbestos rope coated with graphite powder.
4. Pay attention to the belt tension. If the fan belt is too loose, it will slip, causing the fan and water pump speeds to decrease and resulting in insufficient airflow. If the fan belt is too tight, the bearing load will be too high, accelerating wear and increasing power consumption. Generally, the belt should sag by 10-15 mm when pressed down in the middle with your thumb. Adjust it promptly if it is too loose or too tight.
5. Correctly use the temperature control device. Temperature control devices come in two types: automatic (e.g., thermostat) and manual (e.g., thermal curtains and louvers). Some drivers believe that the lower the water temperature, the better in hot summer weather and often remove the thermostat. Doing so will greatly prolong the engine warm-up time when starting a cold engine, accelerating wear on parts. Therefore, the thermostat should not be removed even in summer. Thermal curtains and louvers are used to adjust the airflow through the radiator. Thermal curtains are generally not needed in summer, and louvers should be fully open.
6. 7. Proper Fuel Selection: In summer, when temperatures are high, use diesel fuel with a higher pour point, and ensure the correct fuel injection timing. Furthermore, pay special attention to preventing fuel leaks, as leaks not only waste fuel but can also cause fires. In addition to diesel fuel, lubricating oil and grease should also be selected according to summer specifications. Some tractors have an oil temperature reversing valve; during seasonal maintenance, this valve should be turned to allow oil to flow to the oil cooler.
8. Battery Maintenance: In summer, water in the battery electrolyte evaporates easily, so pay special attention to checking the electrolyte level. The normal level should be 10-15 mm above the plates. The electrolyte density should be adjusted to the specified lower level. Ensure the vent holes on the filler cap are kept clear. Store batteries not in use in a cool, well-ventilated place.
9. Preventing Fuel Vapor Lock: Higher temperatures lead to faster evaporation, making vapor lock more likely to form in the fuel system. Therefore, in summer, the fuel filter should be cleaned promptly to keep the fuel system clear. While driving, a damp cloth can be placed over the fuel pump, and water should be sprayed on it periodically to keep it moist and reduce vapor lock. If vapor lock occurs in the fuel system, the vehicle should be stopped immediately to allow it to cool down, and the fuel line should be filled with fuel using a hand pump.
9. Preventing Engine Knocking: Engine knocking due to overheating can increase wear on the upper cylinder by 3 to 5 times. Therefore, carbon deposits in the combustion chamber and valve heads should be thoroughly cleaned; the fuel supply and timing should be checked and adjusted to prevent knocking.
