Tractor Operation, Safety and Maintenance

This hands-on course is designed for aspiring and beginning farmers and has also proven valuable to seasoned professionals.

Day one will be an on-farm classroom. We’ll discuss the history and uses of tractors, review basic terminology and operating principles, and take an up-close look at levers and pedals, the three-point hitch and PTO, and the front-end loader. We’ll also review the internal combustion engine, compare gasoline and diesel engines, and discuss tractor transmissions. Newcomers will have a chance to take a supervised turn at the wheel for some introductory tractor driving practice.

Day two will be a hands-on primer lesson in do-it-yourself tractor maintenance. We’ll perform a variety of routine tractor maintenance chores that might include engine oil and filter change, coolant change, hydraulic-transmission fluid and filter change, air filter replacement, fuel filter replacement, fan belt tension adjustment, battery care, and a range of other do-it-yourself tasks that are typically performed at regularly scheduled intervals.

Too far to drive? We’re also offering this event in Western Pennsylvania.

About the trainer:

Shane J. LaBrake managed three different CSA organic vegetable farm operations between 1994 and 2007. He has presented variations on this two-day course over 200 times. His workshops consistently garner rave reviews, and Shane is continuously adjusting the curriculum to better serve a new generation of tractor jockeys.

Notes

• There will be a 45-minute lunch break each day. The price of lunch is included in registration.
• This is a hands-on workshop and portions will be conducted outside. Please check the weather ahead of time and wear appropriate clothing and footwear.
• Capacity: This event is limited to 12 registrants.
• COVID-19: A portion of this event takes place inside. Please review our safety protocols for in-person events.
• Questions? Check out our in-person event FAQs.If you still have a question, contact [email protected].”