Trading In Your Tractor
No matter how advanced or sturdy a tractor is when you first buy it, time takes its toll on heavy machinery. That doesn’t make it worthless, however, and trading it in can be a great way to save money on your next purchase while also making sure someone still gets some use out of your old tractor. In order to maximize that trade-in value, you’re going to need to do a few things to give your tractor a minor makeover.
We here at Mike Cooper Tractors want you to get your money’s worth on your trade-ins, so we’ve put together a few tips for preparing your tractor for the trade. If you want more information, or if you think you’re ready to make the trade, then contact our store in Fort Gibson, Oklahoma. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will make sure you find what you need at the prices you want!
Get It Running
As tractors age, they’ll have some natural wear-and-tear and some of their internal machinery might break down a bit. Unless you’re willing to pay for an overhaul that might be more expensive than the tractor is worth, though, there isn’t much you can do about the big stuff. Instead, make sure you do some regular and preventative maintenance to keep it in the best condition possible.
Fluids
Your tractor relies on a number of fluids to work properly, but these liquids are unstable and can go bad. When they do, the tractor is at risk of serious damage like corrosion. Check all fluid tanks to make sure they’re filled to the brim and that all the liquids inside are in good condition. For radiator fluid, make sure there are no flecks of rust in the tank, and if you smell something like boiling maple syrup when your tractor runs or the engine is reading as too hot, you’ll need to drain and refill the coolant.
Engine oil should be checked for viscosity. If it’s gel-like or discolored, drain and replace it. Otherwise, just top it off. If the machine runs on gasoline, make sure it still smells like gas and not varnish. That smell, or discoloration, means the gas needs replacing. For tractors that run on diesel, make sure it’s not sludge-like or a darker color than normal.
Tires
Your tractor’s tires are especially prone to wear and tear. Make sure they’re filled properly and that the tread is sufficient for safe driving. Also check that the tread is wearing down evenly on all four tires. If it isn’t, your tractor may have an alignment problem that will knock down the price you get for it. Also look for cracks or damage to the sidewalls.
Odds And Ends
Finally, make sure all lights and controls function properly. Check for sticking or resistance in any wheels, buttons, or levers, and make sure all dials and other indicators are accurate.
Clean It Up
No matter how well your tractor works, it needs some curb appeal in order to get you the most out of the trade-in. Since cleaning is way cheaper than fixing, spend some time on this. After all, you wouldn’t want to buy a tractor that looked dingy and banged up, so make sure you don’t try to sell it like that. A checklist of things to do or look for includes:
- Personal effects or easily-removed personalized modifications. There’s no guarantee the next owner will want upgrades designed or geared towards you, specifically, and they certainly won’t want your seat covers.
- Wash the exterior. A strong hose should do most of the heavy lifting, and you should focus that primarily on the lower sections where splashing mud or low-flying dust gather.
- Touch up any chips or scratches in the paint.
- Replace any worn hand grips or seating.
- Sanitize the machine from top to bottom, focusing on high-touch areas like controls. The dealer you’ll be selling to will likely do this as well, but it’s courteous and could help a lot.
Records Matter
Finally, make sure all your papers are in order. You’ll need any registration, service and maintenance records, and other documentation a prospective owner might want to see. A well-maintained and cared for tractor will retain more of its initial value, so keep up with the vehicle’s history report and make it as detailed as possible.
Take a step back and examine your handiwork! If your tractor looks like it’s ready to make you a solid buck or two, then contact us at Mike Cooper Tractors to get your trade-in process started. We proudly serve the people of Tulsa and Muskogee, Oklahoma—let us serve you today!