Fuel is one of those farm expenses that quietly eats into your profit. You may not notice it on one short job. But during planting, hay season, tillage, mowing, hauling, spraying, or long field days, the numbers add up fast. And let’s be honest: diesel is not cheap. When tractor fuel costs rise, farmers usually … Read more
Illinois farmers received a spring update on the 2026 Illinois crop budgets, and the message is mixed. Expected revenues for corn, soybeans, and wheat have improved compared with January projections, but higher production costs continue to pressure farm profitability. According to the farmdoc daily update published by the University of Illinois on May 19, 2026, … Read more
There was a time when a 75, 85, or 95 horsepower tractor could make an entire neighborhood stop and stare. A farmer pulling into the field with a machine like that looked like he had just brought home the future. In some rural areas, a tractor such as a John Deere 6400, a Case 85 … Read more
Farmers can debate tractor brands, horsepower, transmissions, tires, and implements for hours. But one topic always brings out strong opinions: open station vs cab tractors. Some farmers swear by open station tractors. They like the simplicity, lower cost, easy access, and the fact that there is less glass, wiring, air conditioning, and electronics to break. … Read more
Farmers around the world are facing a new wave of pressure as nitrogen fertilizer supplies tighten and prices climb. With a large share of traded urea coming from the Gulf region, disruption around the Strait of Hormuz has quickly turned into a serious concern for global agriculture. For many growers, the problem is simple but … Read more
Looking for the best AW 32 hydraulic oil brands? Compare Chevron, Citgo, Mobil, MAG 1, Shell, and other AW 32 hydraulic oils by use, specs, availability, and buying needs. Choosing the AW 32 hydraulic oil is not just about picking the most famous brand on the shelf. The right choice depends on your equipment, operating … Read more
Can you mix red and green antifreeze? Learn why mixing coolant colors is risky, what can happen, and what to do if you already mixed them. No, you should not mix red and green antifreeze unless the coolant label clearly says they are compatible. Red and green antifreeze are often made with different additive technologies, … Read more
Tractor Supply sells hydraulic hoses, but custom hose-making depends on the store. Some locations may only sell ready-made hoses and fittings, so call ahead before going. This question usually comes up when a tractor, loader, log splitter, skid steer, backhoe, or farm implement suddenly develops a hydraulic hose leak. Maybe the hose cracked near the … Read more
Learn how to locate underground water lines safely, including plastic, PVC, and copper water lines, water line leaks, and underground water and sewer line locations before digging. Finding an underground water line is not always as simple as looking at the yard and guessing where the pipe runs. Water lines can be buried under lawns, … Read more
When should hydraulic hoses be replaced? Learn the warning signs of hose failure, average hydraulic hose lifespan, inspection tips, and when to replace hoses before leaks become dangerous. Hydraulic hoses should be replaced when they show visible damage, start leaking, become stiff or cracked, have damaged fittings, or reach the end of their recommended service … Read more
