The Massey Ferguson MF 135 is a legendary compact tractor known for its reliability and simplicity. Its instrument cluster features essential warning lights that help operators monitor engine and hydraulic health. Understanding these indicators is key to maintaining the tractor's longevity.
Massey Ferguson MF 135 Warning Light Symbols
| Symbol | Name | Color | What it means | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Oil Pressure | RED | When lit, engine oil pressure is dangerously low on your MF 135, risking severe engine damage. | Stop the engine immediately and check the oil level and pressure gauge. | |
| Battery / Charging | RED | Illuminates when the alternator fails to charge the battery, common on MF 135s with worn voltage regulators. | Check alternator belt and wiring; test battery voltage; seek repair if persistent. | |
| Glow Plug / Preheat | AMBER | Lights during preheat cycle on diesel MF 135 models; stays on too long indicates faulty glow plugs. | Wait for light to go out before starting; if it stays on, replace glow plugs. | |
| Coolant Temperature | RED | Red warning when engine coolant exceeds safe operating temperature in your MF 135, often due to clogged radiator. | Stop and let cool; check coolant level and radiator fins for debris. | |
| Parking Brake | AMBER | Reminds you that the parking brake is engaged on your MF 135 before driving. | Release the parking brake lever before moving. | |
| High Beam | BLUE | Blue indicator confirms high-beam headlights are active on your MF 135 for field work or road travel. | Dim when meeting other vehicles. | |
| PTO Engaged | AMBER | Lights when the power take-off (PTO) is engaged, alerting you to rotating shafts near the MF 135. | Disengage PTO before servicing implements. | |
| Differential Lock | AMBER | Indicates the differential lock is activated on your MF 135 for increased traction in mud. | Disengage on hard surfaces to prevent driveline bind. | |
| Low Fuel | AMBER | Warns that fuel level is low in the MF 135 tank; you have only a few hours of work left. | Refuel with clean diesel or gasoline as applicable. | |
| Hydraulic Oil | RED | Red light for low hydraulic oil pressure or level, critical for the MF 135's lift and steering. | Check hydraulic fluid level and filter; top up with recommended oil. | |
| Service / Hour Meter | AMBER | Illuminates when scheduled maintenance is due based on engine hours on your MF 135. | Perform oil change and filter service per manual. |
11 symbols shown. Icons follow ISO 2575 dashboard standards; exact graphics vary by model year.
Most Important Warning Lights
Engine Won't Start
Common causes
- Dead battery or loose connections
- Faulty glow plugs (diesel)
- Fuel system air or clogged filter
What to do
Check battery voltage and terminals; replace glow plugs; bleed fuel system from the injection pump on your MF 135.
Hydraulic Lift Not Working
Common causes
- Low hydraulic fluid
- Clogged hydraulic filter
- Worn pump or control valve
What to do
Top up fluid with recommended oil; replace filter; if issue persists, inspect the multi-power or lift piston seals specific to MF 135.
Engine Overheating
Common causes
- Low coolant or leaks
- Radiator clogged with chaff
- Faulty thermostat
What to do
Add coolant and repair leaks; clean radiator core with compressed air; replace thermostat on the Perkins or Continental engine.
Battery Not Charging
Common causes
- Loose alternator belt
- Bad alternator diodes
- Wiring corrosion
What to do
Tighten belt; test alternator output; clean connections; on MF 135, the dynamo may need new brushes.
Steering Heavy or Noisy
Common causes
- Low power steering fluid
- Loose steering box
- Worn kingpins
What to do
Check fluid level and top up; adjust steering box backlash; lubricate or replace kingpin bushings as per MF 135 service manual.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my MF 135 oil pressure light flicker at idle?
Low idle speed or worn oil pump can cause pressure to drop; adjust idle to 600-650 RPM or replace pump for stable pressure.
How do I reset the service light on my MF 135?
There is no electronic reset; the light is based on a mechanical hour meter. Note the hours and perform service accordingly.
What type of hydraulic oil does the MF 135 use?
Use a universal tractor hydraulic fluid meeting Massey Ferguson specifications, such as Permatran 821 XL or equivalent.
My glow plug light stays on after starting. What's wrong?
The glow plug relay may be stuck or one or more glow plugs have shorted; test and replace as needed on your diesel MF 135.
Why does the PTO light stay on even when disengaged?
The PTO switch or linkage may be out of adjustment; check the lever position sensor on the MF 135 transmission housing.
How often should I change the fuel filter on my MF 135?
Every 200 hours or annually, whichever comes first – especially if you use biodiesel or stored fuel.