Tractor Manual & Tips

These tips are for the used Japanese tractor in general:

Service:

• Almost all of the Japanese tractors service the same. I like to use Chevron Delo 400 for engine oil. Use whatever viscosity you like for your local conditions.
• The transmission is also the hydraulic reservoir. You need to use a premium hydraulic fluid. Ask for tractor hydraulic fluid at almost any auto parts store. We like the Valvoline brand, a premium universal tractor fluid.
• Front axles need 90-weight gear oil. Gearboxes for implements also use 90-weight gear oil. Neither the front axle nor the transmission should be more than ½ full.
• Change the engine oil and filter every 75 to 100 hours. Or once a season.
• Change the hydraulic oil and fuel filter every 300 hours.
• Some tractors have a hydraulic filter, but most have a screen on the suction side of the pump. The suction side is the large steel line going from the reservoir to the engine-mounted pump.
• If you are in a dusty area, you may want to change your air filter every year or more.
• Zerk fittings on your loader and steering components are supposed to be serviced with grease every 10 hours.

Operation:

• Most Japanese tractors are of similar design and operate in the same basic fashion.
• There is a clutch pedal on the left side. There are brake pedals on the right side. The two pedals can operate independently or have a lever to make them operate together.
• Most have a hand throttle either on the right side of the dash or on the column. Some also have a foot throttle on the right.
• The lever to operate the 3-point is usually on the right side of the operator's seat. Just under the front of the seat is a flow restrictor valve for the 3-point. The 3-point hydraulic flow rate is adjusted by turning this in or out. If the 3-point does not work, this is the first place to look. It may be closed all the way down.
• A differential lock is usually on the right side of the floorboard. It is a pedal that is pressed with your right heel. If the tractor gets stuck, you can actuate the pedal to lock the rear wheels so they turn together. Release the pedal, which is spring-loaded, to return to the off position.
• The PTO shifter is located in various places. Usually on the left side and may have multiple speeds.
• Use 1st gear (slowest) to operate most implements.
• Most tractors have at least a 2-speed transmission range, and some have several. Set the range to whatever speed range you want to work in. Slow or fast. Then, use your main shifter to operate it. Usually 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and reverse.
• Finally, for tractors that have 4-wheel drive, an engagement lever is usually located down by the operator's left heel.

What to watch:  

• When you first get your new tractor, keep an eye out for bolts and such loosening. Especially the front loader, as they are all new.  
• Also, lug nuts on wheels.  
• Some hydraulic fittings may loose up.  
• The 3-point can vibrate apart and fall off. 
• Take a walk around the tractor for the first 20 or so hours you get it.  You may save yourself a lot of grief.  
• Mowing!  Check your radiator screen for debris.  A clogged radiator will prevent cooling of the engine, and it will overheat.

Backhoes:

• Never remove the backhoe while the engine is running.
• Always reconnect the quick disconnect hose prior to starting.