The Farmtrac 45 is a simple, tough utility tractor, and that’s why so many are still working on small farms and acreages. But like any tractor that’s put in years of hard work, it develops a familiar set of problems. The good news: most of them come down to a handful of wear parts, and almost all Farmtrac 45 parts can still be found if you know what to ask for.
Below are the eight problems owners ask us about most, what usually causes each one, and which parts fix it.
Before you order any Farmtrac part: find your serial number
Farmtrac made running changes over the life of the 45, so two tractors that look identical can take different parts. Before you order, write down the tractor serial number and the engine serial number. Check your operator’s manual for where they’re stamped on your build year. Having both numbers ready is the single biggest thing you can do to get the right part the first time.
1. Hard starting, especially when cold
Likely causes: weak battery or poor cable connections, worn glow plugs, a tired starter motor, or air or water in the fuel system.
Parts that fix it: glow plugs, battery cables and terminals, starter motor, fuel filters. Start with the cheapest checks: clean and tighten the battery terminals, then test the glow plugs before replacing the starter.
2. Engine loses power or blows black smoke
Likely causes: a clogged air filter, dirty fuel filters, or worn injectors. On older tractors, a restricted air intake is the most common cause and the cheapest fix.
Parts that fix it: air filter (outer and inner element), primary and secondary fuel filters, fuel injectors or nozzles.
3. Overheating
Likely causes: a radiator packed with chaff and dirt, a loose or worn fan belt, a stuck thermostat, or a failing water pump (look for coolant weeping from the pump).
Parts that fix it: fan belt, thermostat and gasket, water pump, radiator hoses, radiator cap or a replacement radiator. Always blow the radiator fins clean before replacing anything.
4. Clutch slipping or hard to disengage
Likely causes: a worn clutch disc, a weak pressure plate, a failing release (throw-out) bearing, or clutch linkage that’s out of adjustment.
Parts that fix it: clutch kit (disc, pressure plate, release bearing), pilot bearing, linkage parts. Check and adjust pedal free play first; if the clutch still slips, it’s time to split the tractor and replace the clutch as a kit.
5. Three-point hitch won’t lift or lifts slowly
Likely causes: low or contaminated hydraulic oil, a clogged hydraulic filter or suction screen, or a worn hydraulic pump.
Parts that fix it: hydraulic filter, seals and O-rings, hydraulic pump. Change the oil and filter first, using the fluid your operator’s manual specifies. If lift is still weak, the pump is the likely problem.
6. Hard or heavy steering
Likely causes: low oil in the steering system, worn tie rod ends, dry or worn front axle pivot and kingpin bushings, or a worn steering pump on power-steering models.
Parts that fix it: tie rod ends, kingpin and pivot bushings, steering cylinder seals, power steering pump.
7. Charging and electrical problems
Likely causes: a failing alternator, a loose belt, corroded grounds, or a worn ignition switch.
Parts that fix it: alternator, voltage regulator, ignition switch, wiring and fuses, lights. Check the ground strap to the frame first; a bad ground causes many “mystery” electrical faults.
8. PTO won’t engage or slips
Likely causes: PTO linkage out of adjustment or, on dual-clutch tractors, a worn PTO clutch disc.
Parts that fix it: PTO clutch disc, PTO shaft seals and bearings, linkage parts.
Farmtrac 45 maintenance parts checklist
Most of the problems above are avoided by keeping these Farmtrac replacement parts on the shelf and changing them on schedule:
| Part | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Engine oil filter | Protects the engine; change with every oil change |
| Fuel filters (primary and secondary) | Prevents hard starting and injector wear |
| Air filter elements | Prevents power loss and black smoke |
| Hydraulic filter | Keeps the hitch lifting and protects the pump |
| Fan belt | Prevents overheating and charging problems |
| Glow plugs | Easier cold starts |
| Grease for all fittings | Prevents worn steering and axle bushings |
Service intervals vary by build year and use, so follow the schedule in your operator’s manual.
Where to buy Farmtrac 45 parts
Farmtrac dealers are thin on the ground in many areas, which is why owners struggle to find parts locally. We supply Farmtrac tractor parts online and ship them to your door, from filters and belts to clutches, hydraulic pumps, starters and Farmtrac accessories. Read us your serial number and a parts specialist will confirm the right part before it ships.
Need a Farmtrac 45 part?
Talk to a parts specialist and get price and availability on the call. In-stock parts ship the same day when you order before 2pm EST.
Frequently asked questions
Are Farmtrac 45 parts still available?
Yes. Most wear and repair parts for the Farmtrac 45 can still be sourced as new, aftermarket or used parts. Call with your serial number and we’ll check availability.
Why is my Farmtrac 45 hard to start in cold weather?
The most common causes are a weak battery, worn glow plugs or air in the fuel system. Check battery connections first, then test the glow plugs.
Do Farmtrac 45 parts fit other Farmtrac models?
Some parts, especially filters and electrical parts, are shared with other Farmtrac models such as the 60, but many are not. Always confirm fit with your serial number before you buy.
Can I use aftermarket parts on a Farmtrac 45?
Yes. Quality aftermarket filters, belts, clutches and electrical parts are built to original dimensions and cost less. See our guide to used and aftermarket tractor parts.