7 Common Issues with Old Tractors and How to Fix Them
Old tractors are workhorses. Whether it’s a 1970s John Deere or an old Massey Ferguson passed down through generations, these machines often have more character than the new ones—and sometimes, a few more quirks too. If you’ve got an aging tractor on your property, chances are you’ve faced at least one of these issues. But don’t worry. With a bit of know-how and elbow grease, most problems are fixable. Here's a guide to the 7 most common problems with old tractors and how to get them running strong again. 1. Hard Starting or Won’t Start at All The Problem: Old tractor often have trouble starting, especially in colder weather. This could be due to weak batteries, failing glow plugs (in diesels), poor fuel delivery, or bad wiring. The Fix: Battery Check: Test and replace the battery if voltage is low. Fuel System: Make sure fuel lines are clean, the filter isn’t clogged, and the pump is functioning. Ignition: On gas engines, check spark plugs and wires. Clean or rep...