Essential Vintage Tractor Safety Checks

Now that social restrictions are easing you may be thinking of getting your vintage tractor back in use. The below checklist will help keep you safe by ensuring accidents and injuries are kept to a minimum.

Initial checks for your vintage tractor

Roadworthy condition (if applicable)
MOT (if applicable)
Valid road tax and insurance
Sitting level on ground
Tyre condition/inflation
No fluid leaks
Number plates visible and clean (if applicable)

In-cab vintage tractor checks

Controls clearly marked
Controls working
Seat in good condition
Seat adjusted for driver
Safety belt used [if fitted]
Dashboard – all warning lights working
Wipers and Washers working
Hand brake working
Steering and brakes working correctly
Split brakes linked and working
Horn, demister and temperature controls [where fitted] working correctly
Cab clean
Cab floor clear of any obstructions

Vintage tractor drivers

Trained and competent
Fit to drive
Follows safety rules
Valid licence
Valid insurance
Appropriate PPE
Not fatigued

Full lighting system

All in place
Undamaged
Clean
Correct colour
A working flashing amber beacon
Lights and indicators working

External checks

Cab/Roll bar in good condition
Check all fluid levels (oil, coolant, windscreen wash, brake fluid)
Sufficient fuel and fuel cap secure
Check radiator
Check Hydraulic hoses
Steps undamaged and clean
Doors in place and handle working
PTO drive guarded (U-guard)
Hitching equipment in good condition

Mirrors

All mirrors in place
Clean and in good condition
Correctly aligned

Windscreen and side windows

All in place
Undamaged and clean
View not obscured e.g. by stickers etc.
Windscreen wipers present and in good condition

Safe parking

Park in a safe area
Reverse park safely
Apply parking brake
Place in correct parking gear
Lower attachments to ground
Switch off engine
Dismount facing tractor

Passengers

Carry passenger(s) in passenger seat only
Safety belt used [if fitted]
High-Visibility vest(s) for passenger in cab
No children under 7 years allowed

Tyres and wheels

Tyres correctly inflated
Tyres have correct tread depth
Tyres undamaged: No abrasions, bulges or tears
Check wheel nuts present and correctly tightened

Download this checklist

Keep this list to hand to help you enjoy your vintage tractor safely.

Vintage tractor insurance

Our cover for vintage tractors 20 years old or more enables you to choose the most appropriate level for your specific requirements, including ancillary items such as road trailers and their contents.