CHAPTER XI TRACTOR OPERATION Before running a new tractor it should be given a careful examination to make sure that all nuts and bolts are tight, and not secured only by paint; that all grease cups are in position and filled; that all parts of the mechanism are properly lubricated; that oil holes are free from grit, and that nothing is cracked, broken or missing. It should be cleaned of cinders and mud that may have collected in shipment, and in general it should be seen to be in proper condition. A tractor, like any other piece of machinery, requires breaking in, and for the first few days it should be run slowly and with light loads. All parts should be plentifully oiled, for there will be rough and uneven places on the bearings that must be worn smooth, and without oil these would heat and be injured. A continual watch should be kept for loose nuts and bolts, which should be tightened without delay. Readjustments of the clutch and brake will be found necessary, for their linings when new may be lumpy; as these lumps wear down through use the clutch or brake will begin to slip and must be tightened. When the linings are worn in, this trouble will disappear, and readjustments will be necessary only at considerable intervals. Special care should be taken to keep the filler caps of the fuel and oil tanks clean and free from dirt. If these are dirty, the dirt will be carried into the tank when filling, and will sooner or later cause trouble. The vent holes in the filler caps should be kept clear. If they are plugged with dirt, air cannot enter the tank to take the place of the fuel that flows out, and the feed of fuel will stop. Beginning when the tractor is new, a system of daily inspection should be started, and should be continued for the working season. Big trouble starts with small trouble, and if small trouble is cured without delay, big trouble will be avoided. Trouble usually begins with looseness, which may be due to a slack nut or bolt, or may come with wear. If the loose part is not tightened, it will begin to shift its position; it will wear, and will rapidly lead to a breakdown. Every day, without fail, all parts of the tractor should be inspected for loose nuts, bolts, pipe and electrical connections, petcocks, drain plugs, steering connections, etc. This is also the time for wiping off the working parts, and cleaning mud and grit from rods, shafts, joints, and other places at which dirt could make its way into bearings.