About Tractor Parts & Repair: Our site brings you the info and resources you need to care for your tractor. Learn more about Tractor Pressure Plate here, and find the parts you need to maintain your tractor and keep it at optimal performance.
Tractor Pressure Plate
The two most important pressure plates used on heavy tractors are the roller and snap plate. Snap plates generally are located in either the back or front of your tractor's bed and are usually installed on either side of the tractor's frame. When the driver lifts up the tractor while driving, the weight of the entire tractor moves through the hinges of these plates that snap into place to hold the whole tractor in place, preventing the tractor from moving. These plates can break or crack over time, causing stress cracking which is often visible on your tractor's frame.
Over time the tension on these plates can increase, which causes the plates to crack at one point or another. Pressure plate manufacturers design their pressure plates to handle varying amounts of tension. If you have a lot of traffic on your heavy equipment or your tractor is going up and down a steep grade on a regular basis, it would be advisable to get the ball bearing type of pressure plate to reduce the chances of your plates breaking as the plates strain due to the increased tension.
It is also important that you check your tractor's owner's manual to see what pressure plate you should purchase for your tractor. There is not just one pressure plate that is designed for all makes and models of tractors. The manufacturer of your tractor must have approved pressure plates to ensure that they are safe. If you have no knowledge of your tractor's specifications or have purchased an older model tractor, it would be advisable to ask an experienced mechanic to get your tractor's pressure plate components. The mechanic will have the knowledge and experience necessary to determine the correct pressure plate that is right for your tractor.