Farm machinery represents one of the biggest investments on any UK farm. From tractors and combines to telehandlers and sprayers, keeping equipment in peak condition is essential for productivity and profitability.
One of the most effective - and cost-efficient - ways to extend the life of your agricultural machinery is by using the right agricultural lubricants and following best-practice maintenance routines.
In this guide, we explain how lubrication plays a critical role in machinery longevity - and how farmers can reduce wear, breakdowns, and long-term repair costs.
Modern agricultural machinery operates under extreme pressure. Heavy loads, long working hours, variable weather conditions, and exposure to dirt and moisture all put stress on engines, transmissions and hydraulic systems.
High-quality agricultural lubricants help to:
•Reduce friction and internal wear
•Protect against corrosion and contamination
•Maintain consistent performance under heavy loads
•Prevent overheating
•Extend service intervals
Poor lubrication, incorrect oil selection, or missed service intervals can significantly shorten equipment lifespan.
Engine oil forms a protective film between moving parts, reducing friction and preventing metal-to-metal contact. Using the correct tractor engine oil ensures:
•Cleaner engine operation
•Reduced carbon deposits
•Improved fuel efficiency
•Longer engine life
(For help choosing the right oil, see our guide to choosing the right tractor oil.)
Transmission systems in agricultural machinery endure significant stress. Using the correct UTTO or STOU agricultural lubricants protects gears, clutches and wet brakes from premature wear and costly repairs.
Hydraulic failure can cause major downtime during busy periods. Quality hydraulic oils:
•Maintain stable viscosity
•Resist foaming
•Protect pumps and seals
•Ensure reliable lifting and steering performance
1. Always Follow Manufacturer Specifications
Using lubricants that meet OEM standards ensures optimal protection and maintains warranty compliance.
2. Choose High-Quality Agricultural Lubricants
Cheaper oils can break down more quickly under load. Premium lubricants maintain performance across long working hours and varying UK temperatures.
3. Stick to Service Intervals
Regular oil changes prevent contamination build-up and internal damage.
4. Monitor Oil Condition
Check for contamination, water ingress, or unusual darkening - early detection prevents major repairs.
5. Store Lubricants Correctly
Keep oils sealed and stored away from moisture and temperature extremes to prevent degradation.
6. Seek Expert Advice
Working with a specialist agricultural lubricants supplier ensures you’re using the right products for your machinery and workload.
Incorrect lubrication can result in:
•Premature engine wear
•Hydraulic pump failure
•Gearbox damage
•Increased fuel consumption
•Unexpected downtime during peak seasons
Preventative lubrication is significantly more cost-effective than reactive repairs.
Rix Petroleum supplies a wide range of agricultural lubricants across the UK, sourced from trusted, industry-leading manufacturers.
We don’t just supply oil - we provide expert guidance to help farmers:
•Select the correct lubricants
•Improve machinery efficiency
•Reduce downtime
•Extend equipment lifespan
With support from our experienced lubricants team, you can protect your machinery investment for the long term.
High-quality agricultural lubricants maintain viscosity and protective properties for longer, reducing wear and improving component longevity - particularly in high-load farm environments.
Yes. Using oil that does not meet manufacturer specifications can cause increased wear, overheating, and even system failure.
In most cases, yes. The cost difference is small compared to the expense of engine rebuilds, hydraulic repairs, or lost harvest time.
Extending the life of agricultural machinery isn’t just about careful driving or routine servicing - it starts with using the right lubricants.
By investing in high-quality agricultural lubricants and expert advice from Rix Petroleum, UK farmers can reduce downtime, protect valuable machinery, and improve long-term profitability.
