Old tractors, or Purana tractors as many of us call them, are more than just machines. They’re companions in the field, trusted workhorses that have served for years—sometimes decades. They might not have the bells and whistles of modern machines, but with regular care and some know-how, they can keep running strong.
That said, older tractors do show signs of aging, from starting issues to poor performance. In this post, we’ll walk you through common problems with old tractors and how to troubleshoot them effectively—without needing to be a certified mechanic.
Engine cranks but doesn’t start
Requires multiple tries or extended cranking
No cranking at all
a. Battery Issues
Check the battery first. Old batteries often lose their charge or have poor connections. Clean the terminals and ensure they’re tight. If the battery is over 3-5 years old, consider replacing it.
b. Fuel Supply Problems
Ensure there’s enough fuel in the tank (sometimes we overlook the obvious). Then check the fuel filter for clogs. Dirty fuel or sediment buildup is common in old tractors and can block flow.
c. Glow Plugs (for diesel engines)
Glow plugs help warm the combustion chamber during cold starts. If one or more glow plugs are faulty, the engine will struggle to start. Test and replace them if needed.
d. Starter Motor
If you turn the key and get a clicking sound or no response, the starter motor or solenoid may be faulty. Tap the starter lightly with a metal object while trying to start—if it works, you may need to rebuild or replace the starter.
Engine gets hotter than normal
Steam or coolant leaking
Tractor shuts down unexpectedly
a. Low Coolant
Check the radiator. If coolant levels are low, refill with the proper mixture of water and antifreeze. Also inspect hoses for leaks.
b. Radiator Blockage
Old tractors often accumulate dirt, chaff, and rust in and around the radiator. Clean the fins with compressed air or a soft brush. Flush the radiator if internal blockage is suspected.
c. Thermostat or Water Pump Failure
The thermostat regulates coolant flow; a faulty one can prevent circulation. Similarly, a worn-out water pump can’t move coolant effectively. Replace these if necessary.
Sluggish acceleration
Struggles under load
Engine sounds rough or misfires
a. Clogged Air Filter
A dirty air filter can choke the engine. Remove it and check for dust, dirt, or oil. Clean or replace it to restore airflow.
b. Fuel System Issues
Dirty injectors or clogged fuel filters reduce power. Consider cleaning or replacing fuel filters and using fuel additives to clean injectors.
c. Worn-out Injector Pump (in diesel tractors)
Over time, the injector pump may wear out and affect timing or fuel delivery. Get it inspected by a professional if cleaning the system doesn’t help.
Difficulty shifting gears
Grinding noises
Slipping out of gear
a. Low or Dirty Transmission Oil
Check the transmission oil level. If it’s low or discolored, drain and replace it. Use the oil recommended by the manufacturer.
b. Worn Clutch
If the clutch doesn’t disengage fully, gears won’t shift smoothly. Adjust clutch linkages if possible. If there’s still no improvement, the clutch might need replacement.
c. Gearbox Wear
Older tractors may have worn gear teeth or synchronizers. If gear slipping or grinding persists, have a mechanic inspect the gearbox.
Implements not lifting or lowering
Slow or jerky hydraulic movement
Leaking fluid
a. Hydraulic Fluid Level
Low fluid is a common issue. Check and top off hydraulic fluid regularly.
b. Dirty Hydraulic Filter
Replace the hydraulic filter as per the maintenance schedule. Dirty filters restrict flow and pressure.
c. Worn Hydraulic Pump or Seals
If the pump fails to build pressure, or if seals are leaking internally, hydraulics won’t work correctly. You may notice strange noises or erratic motion. Rebuild or replace the faulty components.
White, black, or blue smoke
Reduced performance
Fuel smell or oil smell in exhaust
a. White Smoke
Usually indicates unburnt fuel. Check glow plugs and fuel injectors.
b. Black Smoke
Typically caused by too much fuel or too little air. Clean or replace air filter. Adjust fuel delivery if it’s excessive.
c. Blue Smoke
Suggests burning oil. Could be due to worn piston rings or valve seals. Check engine oil level and consider an engine overhaul if the issue persists.
Lights not working
Horn or indicators non-functional
Battery not charging
a. Faulty Wiring or Connections
Inspect wires for damage or corrosion. Clean connectors and replace frayed wires.
b. Bad Alternator or Voltage Regulator
Use a multimeter to test voltage. If the battery isn’t charging while the engine runs, the alternator or voltage regulator may need replacement.
c. Blown Fuses or Switches
Check the fuse box and dashboard switches. Replace any blown fuses with the correct amperage rating.
Regular Oil Changes: Engine oil should be changed every 100–150 hours of use.
Keep It Clean: Remove dirt and debris from radiator, engine bay, and moving parts.
Grease Joints and Bearings: Lubricate all moving parts regularly to reduce wear.
Use Genuine Parts: Always choose quality parts during repairs. Cheap spares often cause more harm than good.
Follow a Service Schedule: Even if it’s an old tractor, stick to a maintenance calendar for oil, filters, and fluid checks.
While Purana tractors can be stubborn at times, most issues can be fixed with a bit of patience and some basic tools. Understanding your tractor’s typical behavior is half the battle. Don’t ignore small signs—odd sounds, leaks, or changes in performance often signal bigger problems ahead.
If you’re ever in doubt, don’t hesitate to consult a local tractor mechanic. But for many issues, especially common ones, the solution is well within reach. Keeping a tool kit, a service manual, and a little curiosity can go a long way in maintaining your trusty old machine.
Your Purana tractor may not be new, but with the right care, it can still deliver like a champ for years to come.
