With fuel prices on the rise, farmers should be looking for ways wherever possible to make savings on their farms. Here are a few tips on how to reduce your tractors fuel consumption.
Tyres Pressure
Tyre pressure should be set accordingly based on the axle load and driving speed. Low tyre pressure should be used in the field and high tyre pressure on the road.
In the fields, an over-inflated tyre will result in excessive slip and will then need more engine power to make up for lost grip. On the road, an under-inflated tyre will generate resistance as there is a larger contact surface area which requires more engine power.
GEAR UP AND THROTTLE BACK
“Gear Up And Throttle Back” is a fuel-saving technique that can be used when the load pulled requires less than 70% of the tractor's power. By changing to a higher gear and slowing the engine the tractor can maintain the desired speed and save fuel.
Machinery Maintenance
With poor maintenance, there may not be enough air in the fuel-air mixture. This can cause loss of power and smoke. By lubricating the motor and the gear, friction losses can be reduced.
It is important to have your fuel injectors serviced regularly as inefficient combustion and power loss can be caused by dirt. This can be identified by black smoke coming from the exhaust
Use the correct tractor size for the job.
Use your smallest, lightest tractor for light loads and jobs to get the best fuel efficiency. For operations that require more horsepower, go with a larger tractor to avoid overloading smaller tractors, which increases fuel consumption.
Use Quality Fuels, Lubricants & Additives
From premium heating oil for domestic heating to agricultural lubricants for your farming machinery- We stock a vast range of fuel additives, lubricants, and greases that will keep your farm running at maximum efficiency. Fuel additives are a great way of preventing and treating any problems that may cost your farm in downtime or repairs.
