Iseki TH185-TH265 Seasonal Maintenance and Storage

Suitable for the entire series: Iseki TH185, TH205, TH215, TH235, TH255 and TH265. Not going to use the tractor for a while, for example outside the season? With the right preparation, you can prevent stuck clutch plates, corrosion and cold damage. The steps below come directly from the Iseki factory manual.

Daily storage

• Clean thoroughly, especially after plowing or working on wet ground.
• Lower the implement to the ground.
• Store indoors if possible.
• In freezing conditions (≤ 0°C): remove the battery or use sufficient antifreeze/drain the coolant.
• Always remove the key.

Long-term storage: step-by-step plan

1. Thoroughly clean the tractor and carry out any necessary repairs.
2. Change the engine oil and let the engine idle for about 5 minutes to distribute the fresh oil.
3. Drain the coolant (hang a "no water" label as a reminder).
4. Grease all lubrication points.
5. Check bolts and nuts.
6. Set tire pressure slightly higher than normal.
7. Remove counterweights; disconnect the implement and leave it on the ground.
8. Store the tractor in a dry, sheltered location, possibly under a tarp, with wheel chocks behind the wheels.
9. Disconnect the battery and store it separately in a cool, dry place (or at least disconnect the negative terminal).
10. Press down the clutch pedal and lock it with the "clutch cut-off arm" — this prevents the clutch plates from sticking together during prolonged inactivity.

During the storage period

Run the engine once a month for about 5-10 minutes at medium speed — this helps prevent rust formation in the cylinders. Does your tractor have a cabin with air conditioning? Then also run the air conditioning for about 5 minutes once a month, so the compressor oil keeps circulating.

Putting back into use after long-term storage

First perform a full daily inspection (fluid levels, tires, lubrication points) and let the engine idle for about 30 minutes after starting before you start working — longer than the usual warm-up time from our article on operation & starting, precisely because everything has been stationary for a long time.

Seasonal check for the new season

Before you get back to work, check: engine oil and filter (see our article on engine oil & fluids), air and hydraulic filter (see filters & filter set), clutch, brake and steering play (see maintenance schedule & adjustment values), and battery condition — especially important after winter storage.