Early Spring Planting Prep: Getting Your John Deere Equipment Field-Ready
2/27/2026
With Louisiana's narrow planting windows, every day counts when conditions are right. When the sun peeks out after winter and planting season approaches, you need your John Deere tractor and planter field-ready—not sidelined by maintenance issues that could have been caught weeks earlier. Getting your equipment ready now ensures you won't lose precious planting days to preventable problems when ideal conditions finally arrive.
First things first, for a thorough inspection, you need to wash away all the dirt and debris that has accumulated on your tractor over the winter months. Use a power washer or hose to remove any dirt and grime you can see. Once your tractor is clean, perform a visual inspection, checking for leaks, worn parts, or anything else that requires immediate attention.
Fluids and filters can become contaminated over the winter months, causing all sorts of problems for your engine. Get under the hood to check the following fluids and filters, replacing as necessary
Cold temperatures can be especially harsh on batteries. When bringing your tractor out of storage, test your battery to see if it can hold a charge. Also, clean the terminals to remove any corrosion. You’ll also want to check the condition of your electrical system. Test your lights so you’re ready for long planting days in the field. Also, inspect your wiring, keeping an eye out for rodent damage—a common problem in the winter.
Tires tend to deflate more quickly in low temperatures. Check your tire pressure and make sure they're properly inflated for field work. Inspect for cracks, worn tread, and damage as well. Before you head out on the field, it’s also important to check wheel weights and lug nuts, making sure they are secure.
Don’t skip lubrication. Lubricate all moving parts and grease points like chains and bearings to minimize friction and extend the lifespan of components.
Once everything is inspected thoroughly, perform a final operational test to ensure everything is working as it should be. Test all your hydraulic functions, such as the PTO shaft, and verify smooth transmission operation. Check steering response and brake operation.
With your tractor inspected and ready, it’s time to focus on your planter- the precision equipment that sets the foundation for your entire growing season.
Planters are built for precision, and Louisiana's planting conditions—clay soils, variable moisture, tight windows—rely on accuracy. A thorough inspection can prevent costly downtime when it matters the most.
We fully support your right to repair and our team is here to guide you through any DIY maintenance you wish to perform on your equipment. However, some service tasks are best left for your dealer. Complex repairs and diagnostics like the following should be handled by an experienced technician.
At Goldman Equipment, we have John Deere Certified technicians ready to take on any job, big or small. Our service department uses genuine John Deere parts along with special tools and diagnostic equipment to accurately diagnose and repair your equipment, providing a comprehensive inspection that catches issues you might miss.
Pre-season preparation leads to fewer breakdowns and more productive planting days. For reliable service that gets you back to work faster, schedule an appointment at one of our 11 Goldman locations across Louisiana. Don’t let unexpected repairs cost you valuable time in the spring.
