Buying a used or purana (old) tractor is a smart move for many farmers and landowners. It's often more affordable, readily available, and can still offer many years of reliable service if properly maintained. However, owning a used tractor also comes with its own set of challenges—especially if you’re a first-time owner. Unlike new tractors, older models may need more attention, repairs, and careful handling.
Whether you’ve just purchased your first purana tractor or are considering getting one, this guide will walk you through 10 essential tips to keep your machine running smoothly and efficiently.
1. Understand Your Tractor’s History
Before anything else, try to get a clear picture of your tractor's past. Knowing how it was used, how many hours it has logged, and whether it has undergone major repairs can help you prepare for future maintenance. Ask the previous owner for service records, or at least a verbal history. This can help you identify potential weak points like a worn-out clutch or overused hydraulic system.
Pro Tip: Avoid tractors with unclear ownership history or signs of tampering with the hour meter.
2. Start With a Full Inspection
Don’t assume everything is working just because the tractor starts. A full inspection is crucial. Check for:
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Leaks (oil, coolant, fuel)
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Cracks in hoses or belts
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Worn tires
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Loose or rusty bolts
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Battery corrosion
Have a trusted mechanic or technician inspect it if you’re not confident in doing it yourself. This initial check-up can prevent big problems down the road.
3. Change All Fluids and Filters
This is a non-negotiable first step. Even if the previous owner says it was “just serviced,” go ahead and replace:
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Engine oil
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Hydraulic oil
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Gearbox oil
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Fuel filters
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Air filters
Old fluids may contain dirt or moisture that can damage your engine or hydraulics. Fresh oil and clean filters can instantly boost performance and extend life.
4. Get the Right Tools and Spare Parts
Older tractors often require more hands-on maintenance. Keep a basic toolkit handy, including:
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Wrenches
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Pliers
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Oil pan
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Grease gun
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Tire pressure gauge
Also, stock up on spare parts like belts, filters, spark plugs, and fuses. Since some old tractor models have discontinued parts, try sourcing spares in advance from nearby dealers, scrap yards, or online platforms.
5. Master the Owner’s Manual
Even if your purana tractor didn’t come with a manual, try to find one online or from a dealership. It’s your best guide to understanding:
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Maintenance schedules
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Fluid capacities
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Greasing points
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Troubleshooting codes
Learning your tractor’s model-specific quirks will help you avoid common user errors that can lead to breakdowns.
6. Inspect and Maintain the Battery
Old tractors often suffer from battery-related issues, especially if they’ve been idle for a while. Check the battery terminals for corrosion and clean them if needed. If the battery seems weak or struggles to hold a charge, it’s better to replace it upfront.
Battery care tips:
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Keep it fully charged, especially during winter
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Clean terminals monthly
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Use distilled water if it’s a refillable type
7. Don’t Skip Greasing Points
Tractors have multiple joints and parts that require regular greasing. Ignoring them leads to premature wear and expensive repairs. Refer to your manual for the locations of:
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Steering knuckles
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Axle joints
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PTO shafts
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Loader arms (if equipped)
Use a grease gun and apply the correct grade of grease every 50-100 hours of use, or more frequently in dusty or wet conditions.
8. Be Gentle With Operation at First
Even if the tractor looks tough, an older engine and transmission need some warming up—literally and figuratively. Don’t over-rev, overload, or push it to the limit during initial use.
Start with:
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Light loads
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Short durations
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Warm-up time (5-10 mins)
Gradually test its performance, and note any strange noises, overheating, or vibrations.
9. Join a Tractor Community or Forum
There are tons of online communities and local tractor clubs where owners of specific brands like Mahindra, Swaraj, John Deere, or Sonalika share tips, DIY repair hacks, and parts sources.
These groups can be especially helpful for:
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Identifying weird noises or behavior
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Finding rare spare parts
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Learning how to fix things on a budget
Popular platforms:
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Facebook groups
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WhatsApp tractor owner groups
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YouTube channels with DIY repairs
10. Plan a Long-Term Maintenance Schedule
Preventive maintenance is key to long life. Create a simple schedule that includes:
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Oil change every 100-150 hours
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Hydraulic fluid every 500 hours or annually
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Filter replacements every season
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Tire pressure checks weekly
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Battery inspection monthly
Keep a notebook or use an app to track what maintenance was done and when. This will save you time, money, and stress in the long run.
Bonus Tip: Add Personal Touches for Safety & Comfort
A purana tractor doesn’t mean you should sacrifice comfort or safety. Consider upgrading:
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Seat cushions for better support
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LED headlights for better visibility
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A canopy or sunshade
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Rear-view mirrors or reverse alarms
Small additions can make a huge difference in daily usability, especially if you use your tractor for long hours.
Final Thoughts
Owning a purana tractor is like owning a piece of hardworking history. With the right care, your machine can serve faithfully for years to come. Yes, it may require more attention than a new model—but the satisfaction of keeping it running smoothly, often on a budget, is unmatched.
By following these tips, you’ll not only protect your investment but also grow your confidence as a tractor owner. Whether you’re plowing fields, hauling loads, or just keeping your land in shape, your old tractor has plenty of life left—if you treat it right.
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