PRINCIPLES AND SYSTEMS OF

LAND PREPARATION
Outline
 PRINCIPLES AND SYSTEMS OF LAND PREPARATION
 Importance of Land preparation
 Tillage
 Land Levelling
 TRACTOR AND IMPLEMENT OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE
 Pre-Start Safety Check
 Basic Driving of a Tractor
 Reversing a Trailer
 Trailed Implement
 Trailed Implements with Remote hydraulics
 PTO Driven Implements
 3-Point Linkage
 Servicing of a Tractor
 Tractor Operation
 PTO Driven Implement Operation
 Implement Maintenance
 2-WHEEL TRACTOR/HAND TRACTOR OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE
What to understand in land preparation?

 role of tillage and land levelling in land

preparation
 reasons why good land preparation is
important
 different systems and equipment that are used
for tillage
 power requirements for tillage of different soil
types using different equipment
 basic setting up and operating equipment
 Land preparation – is the process of
preparing the soil to provide a favorable soil
environment for plant germination and
growth.

 Tillage – is the process of mechanically

altering some physical characteristics of the
soil for it to be ideal for growing crops.
Factors that influence the method of
land preparation

 Water Supply

 Crop Establishment Systems

 Power Resources

 Cost and Sustainability

 Characteristics of the soil

The aim of land preparation is two-fold:

 to place the soil in the best

physical condition for crop
growth

 to ensure that the soil surface is

left level
Purpose of Tillage

 decrease ped or clod size

 remove, incorporate or modify plant residue
 manage water (both wetting and drying)
 control weeds
 mix and incorporate soil amendments such as lime and
basal fertilizer
 control or destroy insects, their eggs, larvae and
breeding places
 reduce  wind and water erosion by leaving a rough
surface.
Systems of Tilling Rice Fields

 Wetland Tillage –The soil is tilled in a

saturated or flooded condition.

 Dryland Tillage –This is for both

lowland and upland fields where the
soil is dry during land preparation.
 This is done to obtain a mellow, firm
seedbed for sown seeds to
germinate in, control weeds and
incorporate organic materials into
the soil.
TYPES OF TILLAGE
 Primary tillage is the first working after the last harvest and
normally the most aggressive tillage operation.
 It is normally undertaken when the soil is wet enough to
allow the field to be ploughed and strong enough to give
reasonable levels of traction.
 This can be immediately after the crop harvest or at the
beginning of the next wet season. When there is
sufficient power available some soil types are ploughed
dry.
TYPES OF TILLAGE

 Secondary tillage is any working completed

after primary tillage and is undertaken for
 reducing ped size,
 weed control,
 incorporation of fertilizers,
 puddling and
 leveling soil surface.
Primary Tillage Implements

Moldboard Plow
Disc Plow

Trailing Tine Plow Offset Disc for 4-wheel Tractor

Secondary Tillage Implements

Rotavator
Spike Tooth Harrow

Disc harrow
Tine Cultivator
Tillage Patterns

Circuitous Pattern Up and back or Headland pattern

Tillage Patterns
 Power Requirements
Implements Approximate power requirement (Engine kW/m at 7.2
Km/hr using a Front wheel assisted Tractor)
Soil Types Clay Loam Sand
Primary Tillage      
Implements
Moldboard 26 22 18
Plough
Disc Plough 25 21 18
Tine Plough 20 16 14
Offset disc 24 20 16
Plough
Power Requirements
Implements Approximate power requirement (Engine kW/m
at 7.2 Km/hr using a Front wheel assisted
Tractor)
Soil Types Clay Loam Sand Wet
Secondary Tillage        
Implements
Tined Cultivator 14 11 9  
Inter-row cultivator 8 6 4  
Disc cultivator 18 16 14  
Rotovator 35 30 20 25-35
Puddler       7
Benefits of land leveling
 Effective land levelling reduces the work in
crop establishment and care, and increases
yields.
▪ Level land improves water coverage that:
▪ reduces the amount of water required for land
preparation
▪ improves crop establishment and care
▪ decreases the time to complete tasks
▪ results in better crop stands
▪ reduces weed problems
▪ results in uniform crop maturity
Benefits of land leveling
 Better levelling of land
results in benefits to
the farmer in yield,
weed control, farm
operation, seeding
practices and
efficiency of water
use.
Systems of land leveling
 Draft Animal using harrows
and levelling boards
 2 wheel tractors with harrows
and levelling boards

 4 wheel tractors with

levellers
 4 wheel tractors with
with laser controlled
bucket
 TRACTOR AND IMPLEMENTS
OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE
 hec k o n a Tra c tor
P re-st a rt Sa fety C
Perform a

 Check Brakes
 
 Check Clutch

 Check brake and clutch fluid

levels
 hec k o n a Tra c tor
P re-st a rt Sa fety C
Perform a

 Walk around the tractor and look for any

problems
▪ Check that safety guards are in place.
▪ Check for loose or damaged parts, such as nuts and bolts,
drawbar and three point linkage pins.
▪ Check the drawbar and three point linkage security.
▪ Check for oil, fuel or water leaks from pipes and hoses.
▪ Check the tire treads and walls that may have cracks, tears
and uneven wear or embedded pieces of steel or timber.
Tractor Safety
 Roll-Over Protection Structure or ROPS
for short. This is what's going to protect
you in the event of an overturn . An
important part of that is the seatbelt.

 PTO shield. This little metal guard here is

to keep articles of clothing or hair or
anything like that from getting tangled in
the PTO shaft when it's turning.
 You should never get off your tractor and do
anything with this implement or with the PTO
shaft when it's running.
 Tractor Safety
 Clutch safety switch or starter interlock. This little device
will, will not allow the starter to engage unless you have the
clutch pedal fully depressed.

 Implements.
 when you're transporting with implements raised up,
either on your lift or if we had a front end loader on the
front of this tractor, move around with those implements
as low as possible to avoid an imbalance and, and
decrease the likelihood of an overturn.
 But with these on the front, when you raise your three-
point lift and pick your implement up in the back,
counterweight - keep everything stable, keep the front
wheels of the tractor on the ground.
The Basic's of
Dr iving a Tractor

 Before starting
 Carry out daily checks and maintenance tasks.
 Always take an all round check for obstacles and people
before mounting the tractor.
 Make sure the footbrakes are latched together and the
hand brake firmly applied.
 Identify and understand all the controls.
 You must be in the operator’s seat to start the tractor,
check that the area is clear of people and of obstacles.
The Basic's of
Dr iving a Tractor

 Starting a Tractor
 Check that all gear levers are in neutral, place PTO and
hydraulic levers in neutral position-leave implements down.
 Check fuel and fuel cut-out control is in the run position.
 Open throttle to fast idle and check that the handbrake is
applied. 
 Depress the clutch pedal fully then turn key to the start
position.
 When the engine starts, release the clutch pedal slowly.
 Do not allow the engine to idle for long periods. Do not
leave the tractor running unattended
The Basic's of
Dr iving a Tractor

 How to Shift Gears on a Tractor

 levers - several features that are common to most tractors.
Unlike a car with a manual transmission, most tractors will have a
multi range transmission.

 high and low range. Depending upon the job that you're doing,
you'll want to select a high range and say a high speed on your
transmission for transport.
▪ To drive across the yard when the tractor's not under load just to get to a
different area.
▪ if you're tilling a vegetable garden you want to be in a very low range and
then select transmission speed one or two.
The Basic's of
Dr iving a Tractor

How to Shift Gears on a Tractor

 PTO, or power take off, for powering your rear implements.
Lot of them just have one speed and then neutral, so it's
basically an on or off switch. Some have multiple PTO speeds.

 Synchronized gears and transmission – can shift gears while

on the move.
 A manual transmission - never shifting when you're on the
move.
 On a tractor with a manual transmission, you select the gear that
you need that's appropriate for the job when the tractor is at a stand
still and you have the clutch pedal fully depressed.
The Basic's of
Dr iving a Tractor

 Moving off
 Double check for all round clearance of people and of obstacles.
 Check that all items of equipment are secure, cowlings latched, independent
brake pedals latched together, instruments reading correctly and passengers (if
any) safely positioned in legally approved passenger seats only.
 Depress the clutch (1st stage on a two stage clutch) and select required gear.
Release the parking brake
 Open throttle control sufficiently to prevent stalling the engine when load is
applied. Don’t over rev the engine.
 Release the clutch pedal slowly and steadily. As the load is taken release the
foot brake. If the engine revs tend to drop, increase throttle setting slightly.
 When the clutch is completely engaged remove foot from the pedal. (Never
ride the clutch or brake pedal)
 Adjust the throttle to suitable operating speed. Check the instruments and
gauges at frequent intervals. Check that the brakes are functional.
The Basic's of
Dr iving a Tractor

 Safe driving
 Smoothly engage the forward gears to suit the
appropriate speed and load.
 Drive at a safe speed at all times.
 Engage the lower gear before starting to go down a slope.
 Never change gears while descending and don’t rely on
your brakes.
 Slowing to a halt
 Always use the throttle to slow down then use the clutch
and footbrakes to stop.
The Basic's of
Dr iving a Tractor

 Parking the tractor

 Choose the site. If possible park on flat ground with the
and the fuel cut off stop in the off position.
if it’s necessary to park on sloping ground:
-leave in forward gear when facing up a slope
-leave in reverse gear when facing down a slope.
 Disengage gears and PTO.
 Apply the parking brake.
 Lower all hydraulically operated equipment.
 Stop the engine: Normally the tractor is parked implement
down, handbrake on and out of gear.
The Basic's of
Dr iving a Tractor

 Reversing
 Position the tractor square on to the implement.
 Engage reverse gear and put your feet on the clutch and brake
pedals (locked together).
 Check for all round clearance, insist that any assistants stand
clear of tractor’s path.
 Reverse at slowest speed, minimum throttle setting and
lowest gear ratio.
 Take care when backing up to an implement, it requires
maximum care and concentration on the part of the operator,
an error could seriously damage equipment or kill or injure a
co-worker.
 Reversing and Turning a Trailer

Reversing with Trailer

 Sit in the driving seat so that you can see the back
corners of the trailer deck or sides.
 Start with the tractor and trailer in a straight line.
 Don’t watch the front wheels, the front of the
tractor or the drawbar while you are learning this
procedure just watch the back of the trailer.
 Attempt to back the trailer in a straight line, using
the LOW ratio reverse gear, proceed slowly
backwards, watching the trailer as it veers off line.
 If it veers to the right, turn the steering wheel
down to the right also know as right hand down,
until the trailer stops moving off to the right.
 Try as far as possible to keep your movements or
turning of the steering wheel to a minimum
 Reversing and Turning a Trailer

 Turn a trailer
 ::::::Make sure you can competently reverse
the trailer before you start this task.
 Turn the steering wheel in the opposite
direction to the direction that you want
the trailer to go.
 Remember, every movement of the
steering wheel will require a correction to
straighten the tractor and trailer once you
are heading in the desired direction.
 Turning while reversing a trailer. Always
use low ratio, not high, when reversing.
 Attach and Remove a Trailed Implement on a Tractor

Position tractor square-on to the Hitching the implement: Place the draw bar
implement and slowly back the pin through the holes. If holes do not quite
tractor until the drawbar and the align, put the pin in and creep forward or back
implement hitch hole(s) line up and it drops into place
 Unhitch and detach the implement
 Stop the tractor and place it in park with the handbrake
Attach and Remove a Trailed

on.
 If you must uncouple wheel-carried equipment on
Implement on a Tractor

sloping ground, chock the wheels to prevent it from

rolling.
 If the ground is soft, position a bearing plate (e.g. solid
timber) under all support stands.
 Lower stands or position supports as many , implements
are not balanced when unhitched from the tractor.
 Support the implement drawbar at the correct height
so that it is ready for hitching next time.
 Remove and store drawbar pin
 Working Safely
Attach and Remove a Trailed
Implement on a Tractor

Secure the pin with the locking device

Safety First!
 Hitch the implement
Hydraulics
Remote Hydraulics
Trailed
and Remove a Trailed

 Use a jack, jack stand, or block to hold the implement tongue at

the height of the drawbar, when you attach it to the drawbar.
with Remote

▪ Don’t try to lift heavy equipment by hand.

 Position the tractor square-on to the implement and slowly
Implement with

back the tractor until the drawbar hole and implement hitch
hole(s) line up.
Attach and
Implement

 Place the drawbar pin through the holes and secure it to

Attach

prevent it coming out during operation.

 Use drawbar pins that have a locking device to keep them in
place.
▪ Never use your fingers to align holes.
 Connect Remote
Hydraulics
Hydraulics
Remote Hydraulics

 Determine whether the hydraulic ram is

Trailed

single-acting or double-acting and determine

and Remove a Trailed

if the tractor supplies 1-way, 2-way or both

with Remote

types of pressure.
 Check that there is no pressure in the hose
Implement with

from the previous operation

Attach and
Implement

 Connect the hoses to the remote hydraulic

Attach

couplings by pushing the hose end into the

tractor coupling until engaged.
 Attach and Remove a Trailed
Implement with Remote Hydraulics
Hydraulics
Remote Hydraulics

 Operate hydraulic system

 If you are using implements with double acting hydraulic
Trailed
and Remove a Trailed

rams, connect both hoses to the tractor before the implement

with Remote

is operated.
 Do not operate double acting hydraulic rams with one hose
disconnected as the ram can multiply the applied pressure
Implement with

from the tractor (e.g. 2000 psi or 14,000 kPa) many times.
Attach and
Implement

 The ram seals or hoses may rupture and spray high pressure
oil, the remote hydraulics will usually work even if the hoses
Attach

are placed incorrectly.

 Disconnecting
hydraulic hoses
 Drive the tractor and implement to a firm,
Hydraulics
Remote Hydraulics

level and well drained site.

 Lower all hydraulically operated
Trailed
and Remove a Trailed

components
 Disconnect the hoses in turn and stow them
with Remote

away from dust and water.

 Ensure that connections and dust caps are
Implement with

absolutely clean and replace the dust caps as

soon as each hose is disconnected.
Attach and
Implement

 Make sure the hoses are not kinked or

twisted when stowed.
Attach
 Unhitching and detaching the
implement
Hydraulics
Remote Hydraulics

 Before you unhitch the implement, chock the wheels to

prevent rolling if you must uncouple wheel-carried
Trailed
and Remove a Trailed

equipment on sloping ground, if the ground is soft, position a

bearing plate (e.g. solid timber) under support stands.
with Remote

 Lower stands or position supports because many

implements are not balanced when unhitched from the
tractor.
Implement with

 Support the implement drawbar at the correct height so

Attach and
Implement

that it is ready for hitching next time and remove and store
the drawbar pin.
Attach

 Check the manufacturer’s instructions for the implement;

generally implements are stored in the lowered position.
 Before attaching a PTO
shaft
 Make sure that the tractor parking
brake is on, the PTO drive is disengaged
Attach and Remove a PTO

and the tractor is out of gear or in park

with the engine stopped.
Driven Implement

 Attach the mounted implement to the

3-point linkage or hitch trailed
implement to the tractor.
 Fasten the drawbar at the centre
position when you attach the tractor to a
PTO-driven trailed implement.
 If you are using a 3-point linkage
implement, check if the tractor drawbar
will be in the way of the PTO shaft or
the implement.
 Ensure that the implement is level and
adjusted for safe, efficient operation.
 Check the coupling
 Check the coupling of the
Attach and Remove a PTO

powershaft to make sure it has the

same number of splines or grooves as
Driven Implement

the stub shaft on the tractor:

-the 540 rpm stub shaft has 6 splines .
-the 1000 rpm stub shaft has 21
splines.

 If the tractor has a high speed (1000

rpm) and low speed (540 rpm) PTO,
use the correct one to suit the
implement to be operated.
 Check the powershaft
 Check that when it is fully extended,
enough of the sliding shaft remains in the
Attach and Remove a PTO

housing (at least 150mm) so that the

shafts do not separate when the tractor is
Driven Implement

in motion.
 Make sure that the sliding shaft does
not bottom out when the shafts are fully
compressed
 Check that the two halves of the PTO
shaft have the correct length and section
size for the implement in use and that
they are securely connected with the
universal joints in the same plane.
 Spring loaded lock
 Ensure the tractor is turned off then slide
the powershaft onto the stubshaft until
Attach and Remove a PTO

resistance is felt.
 Then depress the pin and move the shaft
Driven Implement

about 1 cm further and then release the

pin.
 Push the shaft forward and the locking
mechanism will snap into a slight groove in
the stubshaft and the powershaft will be
locked in place.
 Try to move the powershaft back and
forth to see if it slides on the stubshaft. If it
does, the mechanism has not locked .
 Always check that the locking mechanism
has engaged before you operate the
tractor.
 Disconnecting the PTO shaft
 Apply the parking brake, disengage the PTO drive then put
Attach and Remove a PTO

the tractor in neutral or park.

 Lower the implement and stop engine before attempting to
Driven Implement

disconnect the PTO shaft.

 Reverse the connection steps and slide the powershaft off
the PTO stub shaft.
 Do not hammer the universal joint, when removing it from the
stubshaft.
 Make sure the powershaft is off the ground and stored
securely, replace the PTO stubshaft cover as soon as the
powershaft has been disconnected.
 Replace the PTO master shield then disconnect and store the
implement.
Attach
Attach and
and Remove
Remove aa 3-point
3-point Linkage
Linkage
Implement
Implement
Implement
Attach and Remove a 3-point Linkage
 Methods in attaching the 3-point
linkage
 Method 1 - This method  must be used when the
ground is not level or the implement has a ‘floating’
or ‘non-fixed’ head stock.
 Method 2 -Method 2 is easier to use than method 1
but use this method only where the ground is level
and the implement has a fixed headstock.
 Method 3 - This method is used for unstable
implements that may tip or roll forward or
backwards during connection (for example rotary
hoes).
 Step 1. Reversing the tractor up to
implement
 Reverse slowly towards the implement, make
small, careful tractor movements, always use a
Attach a 3-point Linkage

low reverse gear and slip the clutch to control

Implement – Method 1

the speed and distance of the movements.

 Use the height or position control to set the
ball end of the left draft link to the correct
height
 After the tractor is correctly positioned, apply
the handbrake and stop the engine.
 Move all controls to neutral before
dismounting from the tractor.

This method  must be used when the ground

is not level or the implement has a ‘floating’
or ‘non-fixed’ head stock.
 Step 2. Connect the left
draft link

 Attach the left draft link first because the right lift link
Attach a 3-point Linkage
Implement – Method 1

is usually equipped with a crank adjustment to position

the right draft link if it is too low or high for connection.
 If the left draft link ball does not align with the pin because it is
too far forward or rearward, start the tractor and move it into
position.
 Attach the left draft link and secure it with lynch-
pin. Never use a finger to align any holes.
▪ Check all lynch pin spring rings for good condition and replace where
necessary.
 Step 3. Connect the
right draft link
Attach a 3-point Linkage

 Attach Right Link.

Implement – Method 1

 If the right draft link ball does not align with the pin because it
is too low or too high, then adjust the right lift link with the
crank adjustment.
 If the right draft link ball is too far forward or rearward, adjust
the position of the tractor by using the steering and moving
the tractor forward or rearward.
 Apply the handbrake and put the tractor in neutral then attach
the right draft link and secure with a lynch pin.
 Step 4. Connect the
top link

 Set the turn buckle of the top link so it is exactly in the

Attach a 3-point Linkage
Implement – Method 1

centre, there must be an even amount of thread

extending from each end.
 Adjust the top link by turning the turn buckle so it can be
connected to the head stock of the implement.
 Insert the linkage pin into the appropriate hole of the head
stock and secure with a lynch pin. (see implement operator’s
handbook)
 Do not use a finger to align any holes. Raise the implement. Fit
stabiliser bars/check chains. (if necessary) Then fit all locking
devices.
 Step 5. Level the implement

 Raise the implement and if necessary make the

following adjustments, you may need to lower the
Attach a 3-point Linkage
Implement – Method 1

implement to make some of these adjustments.

 Level the implement from side to side and front to

rear. Adjust the top link to level from front to rear,
adjust the right linkages to level from side to side and
adjust the stabiliser bars/check chains if necessary
and secure all adjustments.
 Lowering the implement before
Detaching the implement
Removing a 3-point Linkage


Implement – Method 1

Drive the tractor into the required position and place any
needed wooden blocks and/or stands in place to support the
implement before lowering it.
 Do not support implements on stones, bricks or rotted
timber.
 Before lowering the implement, set the rate of drop control
according to the weight of the implement. (if necessary)
 After lowering, check that the implement is fully
supported and secure before detaching it from the tractor.
 Detaching the implement
 Stop the engine, apply the parking brake and check that the
Removing a 3-point Linkage

gear and PTO levers and hydraulic controls are in the neutral
Implement – Method 1

position.

Follow the correct order always:

 Disconnect all hydraulic connections, (if applicable).
 Disconnect PTO shaft (if applicable). Replace PTO cover over
PTO as soon as the shaft has been disconnected. Do not
engage the PTO drive after the shaft has been disconnected.
 Remove stabiliser bars/check chains (if fitted).
 Disconnect 3-point linkage by reversing the hitching steps.
 Always Safely store top link, linkage pins, lynch pins and
bushes.
 Step 1. Reversing the tractor up to
implement
 Reverse slowly towards the implement, make small, careful
tractor movements
Attach a 3-point Linkage
Implement – Method 2

 While reversing, line up both lower draft links with the

implement linkage pins, the tractor must be ‘square on’ to the
implement.
 Use the height or position control to set the ball end of the left
draft link to the correct height i.e. aligned with and slightly lower
than the implement linkage pin, the height of the right draft link is
not important at this stage.
 After the tractor is correctly positioned, apply the handbrake and
stop the engine.
 Move all controls to neutral before dismounting from the tractor.

Method 2 is easier to use than method 1 but

use this method only where the ground is level
and the implement has a fixed headstock.
 Step 2. Connect the
top link
Attach a 3-point Linkage
Implement – Method 2

 Set the turn buckle of the top link so it is exactly in

the centre, there must be an even amount of thread
extending from each end.

 Adjust the top link by turning the turn buckle so it

can be connected to the head stock of the implement,
insert the linkage pin into the appropriate hole of the
head stock and secure with lynch pin
 Step 3. Connect the
left draft link

 Attach the left draft link next because the right lift link
Attach a 3-point Linkage
Implement – Method 2

is usually equipped with a crank adjustment to help

position the right draft link if it is too low or high for
connection.
 If the left draft link ball does not align with the pin because it is
too far forward or rearward, and if the implement can be moved,
crank the implement fowards or backwards using the top link.
 If the implement is heavy and cannot be moved then release the
tractor’s handbrake and adjust the top link, to move the tractor
forward-extend top link, to move tractor rearward-shorten top
link.
 Step 4. Connect the
right draft link
Attach a 3-point Linkage

 If the right draft link ball does not align with the pin i.e.
Implement – Method 2

too low or too high, then adjust the right lift link with
the crank adjustment, if right draft link ball is too far
forward or rearward, then adjust top link as per Step 3.

 Attach the right draft link and secure with a lynch pin
and re-apply the handbrake if it has been released.
 Fit stabiliser bars/check chains (if necessary) then fit all
locking devices.
 Step 5. Level the implement

 Raise the implement and if necessary make the following adjustments, you
Attach a 3-point Linkage

may need to lower the implement to make some of these adjustments.

Implement – Method 2

 Level the implement from side to side and front to rear.

 Adjust the top link to level from front to rear, adjust the right linkages to
level from side to side and adjust the stabiliser bars/check chains if
necessary and secure all adjustments.

 At this stage (if applicable) connect PTO shaft and any hydraulic hoses to
remote hydraulic connections.

 To prepare to drive the tractor and implement away you must, Raise the
machine on the linkage and remove any stands, blocks or chocks that have
been supporting the implement.
 Lowering the implement before
Detaching the implement
 Drive the tractor into the required position and place
Removing a 3-point Linkage

any needed wooden blocks and/or stands in place to

Implement – Method 2

support the implement before lowering it, do not

support implements on stones, bricks or rotted timber.

 Before lowering the implement, set the rate of drop

control according to the weight of the implement (if
necessary), after lowering, check that the implement is
fully supported and secure before detaching it from the
tractor.
 Detaching the implement
 Stop the engine, apply the parking brake and check that gear
Removing a 3-point Linkage

and PTO levers and hydraulic controls are in the neutral

Implement – Method 2

position. Follow the correct order of working:

 Disconnect all hydraulic connections, (if applicable).

 Disconnect PTO shaft (if applicable). Replace PTO cover over

PTO as soon as the shaft has been disconnected. Do not
engage the PTO drive after the shaft has been disconnected.

 Disconnect 3-point linkage by reversing the hitching steps.

Re-apply handbrake before you remove the top link.

 Safely store top link, linkage pins and lynch pins.

 Step 1. Reversing the tractor up to the
implement
 Reverse slowly towards the implement, make small, careful
tractor movements, always use a low reverse gear and slip the
Attach a 3-point Linkage
Implement – Method 3

clutch to control the speed and distance of the movements. (Avoid

slipping the clutch too much, as it may cause damage to the clutch)

 While reversing, line up both lower draft links with the implement
linkage pins, the tractor must be ‘square on’ to the implement.

 After the tractor is correctly positioned, apply the handbrake and

stop the engine. Move all controls to neutral before dismounting
from the tractor.

This method is used for unstable implements

that may tip or roll forward or backwards
during connection (for example rotary hoes).
 Step 2. Connect the left
draft link

 Attach the left draft link first because the right lift link is
Attach a 3-point Linkage
Implement – Method 3

usually equipped with a crank adjustment to position the

right draft link if it is too low or high for connection.
 If the left draft link ball does not align with the pin because it is too
far forward or rearward, start the tractor and move it into position.
 To obtain the correct height of the left link, refer to Step 1. On
some tractors, height may be achieved by physically lifting the left
draft link.
 Attach the left draft link and secure it with lynch-pin. Never use a
finger to align any holes.
 Check all lynch pin spring rings for good condition and replace
where necessary.
 Step 3. Connect the top
link

 Set the turn buckle of the top link so it is exactly in the

Attach a 3-point Linkage
Implement – Method 3

centre, there must be an even amount of thread extending

from each end.

 Adjust the top link by turning the turn buckle so it can be

connected to the head stock of the implement.

 Insert the linkage pin into the appropriate hole of the head
stock and secure with a lynch pin. (see implement operator’s
handbook)

 Do not use a finger to align any holes.

 Step 4. Connect the right
draft link

 If the right draft link ball does not align with the pin because it
Attach a 3-point Linkage
Implement – Method 3

is too low or too high, then adjust the right lift link with the
crank adjustment.

 If the right draft link ball is too far forward or rearward, adjust
the position of the tractor by using the steering and moving
the tractor forward or rearward.

 Apply the handbrake and put the tractor in neutral

then attach the right draft link and secure with a lynch
pin. Fit stabiliser bars/check chains. (if necessary) Then fit
all locking devices.
 Step 5. Level the implement

 Raise the implement and if necessary make the following adjustments,

you may need to lower the implement to make some of these
Attach a 3-point Linkage

adjustments.
Implement – Method 3

 Level the implement from side to side and front to rear.

 Adjust the top link to level from front to rear, adjust the right linkages
to level from side to side and adjust the stabiliser bars/check chains if
necessary and secure all adjustments.

 At this stage (if applicable) connect PTO shaft and any hydraulic hoses
to remote hydraulic connections. To prepare to drive the tractor and
implement away you must,

 Raise the machine on the linkage and remove any stands, blocks or
chocks that have been supporting the implement.
 Lowering the implement before
Detaching the implement

 Drive the tractor into the required position and place

Removing a 3-point Linkage

any needed wooden blocks and/or stands in place to

Implement – Method 3

support the implement before lowering it, do not

support implements on stones, bricks or rotted timber.

 Before lowering the implement, set the rate of drop

control according to the weight of the implement (if
necessary), after lowering, check that the implement is
fully supported and secure before detaching it from the
tractor.
 Detaching the implement
 Stop the engine, apply the parking brake and check that gear and
PTO levers and hydraulic controls are in the neutral position. Follow
Attach a 3-point Linkage

the correct order of working:

Implement – Method 3

 Disconnect all hydraulic connections, (if applicable).

 Disconnect PTO shaft (if applicable). Replace PTO cover over PTO as
soon as the shaft has been disconnected. Do not engage the PTO
drive after the shaft has been disconnected.

 Remove stabiliser bars/check chains (if fitted).

 Disconnect 3-point linkage by reversing the hitching steps.

 Safely store top link, linkage pins, lynch pins and bushes.
Operate a Tractor and Implement in Field Conditions

 Select gears and engine speeds

 Refer to your operator manuals for appropriate
ground speed and engine revolutions
 Heavy loads, operate the tractor’s engine at the
rated speed recommended by the
manufacturer.
 Light loads, you can gear up and throttle back,
this improves fuel consumption and increases Keep tractor operating
the diesel engine’s efficiency. in a straight line to
improve efficiency
 Overloads occur when the tractor cannot reach
its full rated engine speed. (Please refer to the
manual for rated speed)
Operate a Tractor and Implement in Field Conditions

 Turn the tractor

 Always disengage the differential lock before attempting any turn,
when turning sharply, don’t allow the implement to jackknife or come
into contact with the rear tyre.
 Use the tractor turning brakes to assist you with turns
in loose conditions,
 If possible, raise the implement from the ground to
make it easier to turn and reduce the load on the
tractor.
 When pulling heavy tillage equipment, allow the
tractor drawbar to swing freely to ease the task of
turning.
Operate a Tractor and Implement in Field Conditions

 Stop under load

 If possible, reduce the load by raising the implement or unloading the
machine, throttle back and disengage the clutch. If the tractor stalls
under load, immediately disengage the clutch and restart the tractor.
 Raise and check implement
 Raise the implement and check it thoroughly for any damage or wear
whenever a field operation has been completed .
 Working Safely
 In addition to the general safety precautions. Before you start, look for
any hazards in the paddock. Try to anticipate well ahead. For example,
change gear before ascending or descending a slope
 ra ct or
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 Check the cooling system for leaks,

underneath the radiator and engine,
check the radiator hoses between the
engine and the radiator, check the engine
components and accessories for oil leaks.

 Check the drawbar and three point

linkage security. Check tyre treads,
check tyre walls for cracks, tears and
uneven wear or embedded pieces of steel
or timber.
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 Engine Oil
 To check the engine oil level the tractor
must be standing on level ground,
allow approximately 10 minutes after
the engine has stopped for the oil to
drain down into the sump.

 Water cooling
 Use a cloth to remove the cap and
inspect when the engine is cool.
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 Engine cooling.
 Check the radiator, cooling fins, fans and air ducts.

 Fuel Filter System

 Air cleaner (dry type)

 If the tractor has an air cleaner indicator or dust
warning indicator, check the gauge or lights on the
indicator to see that they are working.
 The air cleaner element must be cleaned when the
warning indicator is activated otherwise there is
usually no need to service the element.
 ra c t or
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 Air cleaner (oil bath type)
 Stop the engine. Never check the air cleaner
with the engine running.
Loosen the oil bath and remove it from the air
cleaner body.
Replace the oil bath (and screen tray if used)
and tighten clamp. Do not overfill.
Check that all connections are tight.
 Lubricate and Grease Fittings
 Refer to the manufacturer’s timetable; a daily
service grease of the steering, clutch and
brake mechanisms and three point linkage
system would be needed only in harsh
circumstances such as driving in flood waters
or in very dusty conditions.
 Grease nipples
Two wheel Tractor
Two-wheel Tractor
 Safety of two-wheel tractors
 The most common accidents involve
crossing the bunds and road transport.
The operation of two-wheel tractors for
transport at night is a recognised hazard
in many countries,

 Occupational health and safety reports

have recommended regular breaks for the
machine operator due to vibrations.
 The use of 2-wheel tractors (GEAR TYPE)
 Also called the walking tractor, iron buffalo, steel buffalo or hand tractor, 2-wheel tractors
are used in many rice producing countries.

 2-wheel tractors are normally powered by 6-12 kW gasoline or diesel engines and are fitted
with either rubber tires or steel cage wheels.

 Most makes of 2-wheel tractors incorporate an independent drive clutch as well as

individual steering clutches or brakes. Three forward and one reverse working gear are
most common.

 2-wheel tractors are used for land preparation.

 This includes plowing, land leveling, transportation and pumping water. The attachments
used with 2-wheel tractors are the moldboard plough, the disc plough, harrows and
rotovators.
 The use of 2-wheel tractors (CHAIN TYPE)
 2-wheel tractors are normally powered by gasoline or diesel
engines and are fitted with either rubber tires or steel cage
wheels.

 2-wheel tractors (Chain type) with tensioner which would

serve as clutch. A brake is usually in-placed at the trailer.

 Can be used for land preparation like plowing, land leveling,

transportation and pumping water. The attachments used
with 2-wheel tractors are the disc plough, harrows and leveller.
 The advantages of 2-wheel tractors are:
 multi-purpose vehicle
 operate in harder conditions than animals or
humans
 operate in both wet and dry conditions
 fairly simple mechanical design
 The disadvantages are:
 Cost of owning and operating
 Operator fatigue, although ride-on versions are
now available.
 Limited capacity. One 9 kW walking tractor with
two operators is capable of plowing one hectare in
one day. While fuel usage depends on engine size
and working conditions, fuel consumption will
range from 2 to 5 liters per hour.
END OF PRESENTATION
Groupings

 Without experience in driving 4-wheel

vehicle and operating 4-wheel tractor

 Knows and with experience in driving

4-wheel vehicle

 Knows and with experience in

operating 4-wheel tractor
For the Orientation

 TRACTOR AND IMPLEMENTS OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE

(10mins per operation)
1. Pre-Start Safety Check
2. Basic Driving of a Tractor
3. Reversing a Trailer
4. Trailed Implement
5. Trailed Implements with Remote hydraulics
6. PTO Driven Implements
7. 3-Point Linkage
8. Servicing of a Tractor
9. Tractor Operation
10. PTO Driven Implement Operation
11. Implement Maintenance

 2-WHEEL TRACTOR/HAND TRACTOR OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE

Guidelines for the orientation

 The orientation shall be done by group

 The operator shall show how to do the
proper procedure of processes.
 The orientation for one implement for each
group shall be done for 15-20minutes
 Safety First
For the Hands-on training

 TRACTOR AND IMPLEMENTS OPERATIONS (2hrs)

 Pre-Start Safety Check
 Basic Driving of a Tractor
 Reversing a Trailer
 Trailed Implement
 Trailed Implements with Remote hydraulics
 PTO Driven Implements
 3-Point Linkage
 Servicing of a Tractor
 Tractor Operation
 PTO Driven Implement Operation
 Implement Maintenance

 2-WHEEL TRACTOR/HAND TRACTOR OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE

(1hr)
Guidelines

 There will be an operator assigned for each

tractor/implement
 All the participants should experience operating
all the types of implements and processes.
 The actual hands-on shall be done by-twos for
each process.
 The actual exposure on the operation for each
implement should be at least 10minutes.
 end….

SAFETY FIRST
OBSERVE BASIC
TRAFFIC RULES