Tractor Trade-In Prep Guide
Is it high time you traded in your old tractor for a new model? You’ll want to make sure that your current piece of farm equipment is ready to trade in so you can get a good deal on it. The preparation process isn’t difficult, but it is necessary to improve your tractor’s value.
High Plains Equipment is your North Dakota tractor dealer and trade-in headquarters, with locations in Harvey and Devils Lake. We welcome all our customers in Minot and Grand Forks to pay us a visit as well. Read these tips to get your tractor prepared for trade-in before you come by.
1. Make Sure It Runs
This might seem obvious, but you do need to make sure that your tractor is as functional as possible. Perform preventative maintenance on it at home and ensure that all parts are running smoothly. You probably don’t want to put too much money into this, but it is important.
2. Replenish Fluids
The fluids in your tractor help to ensure its proper functioning and they can go bad with neglect, especially if your tractor has been in storage for a few months. Make sure that all the fluid reservoirs are full of clean fluids, including the oil and gas tanks. Your oil needs to be clear and runny, rather than sludgy or gel-like in consistency. Replenish the coolant as well to ensure your engine doesn’t overheat.
3. Inspect Tires
The tires on your tractor should be inspected for any signs of wear or damage. Check each tire’s air pressure and air them up to the psi levels specified in your owner’s manual. Ensure that the treads are deep and not balding and check for cracks in the sidewall or embedded objects that can cause your tires to lose pressure.
4. Clean Your Machine
A clean and shiny tractor is going to sell much better than a dirty, muddy model. Give your tractor a good scrub with a hose and wipe down the interior, sweeping out any leaves or other debris from the cab. Replace worn-down hand grips, touch up chips in the paint and use a bleach wipe to sanitize high-touch surfaces.
5. Gather Your Records
Finally, you need to make sure you have all the records for your tractor, including the owner’s manual and every maintenance or repair you performed. Potential buyers will want a full vehicle history to make sure they’re getting a good deal on a machine that wasn’t neglected.
If you’re all ready to trade in your tractor, the trade-in department here at High Plains Equipment will be more than happy to help you make the process as easy as possible! When you’re looking for a new or used tractor or other piece of farm equipment, visit one of our North Dakota dealerships in Devils Lake or Harvey to view our current inventory. Talk to our finance department if you need assistance with your next tractor purchase. High Plains Equipment proudly serves the cities of Grand Forks and Minot, ND.