Re: Need advise on tractor purchase
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Posted by Bob - KS on December 26, 2001 at 04:02:17 from (208.188.206.59):
In Reply to: Need advise on tractor purchase posted by Joe on December 24, 2001 at 15:34:55:
Hi Joe,
For my $.02 worth on what to pick - step one is to check on dealers in your area to decide what color to buy. No matter what color they are, they all break sooner or later and you'll need a good dealer with parts and service. In this part of the country JD green seems to have the best parts and service, especially on older stuff, but will cost the most to buy and maintain over all others. Some things you can do yourself on a tractor and some things you won't want any part of unless you're set up for it so a good, co-operative service department is a big positive. Beyond that - check out some of the power requirements for the equipment you want to run, decide on the horsepower you need, and go a little bigger if you can and still get around the trees. Look for a tractor with turf tires if you're going into the landscaping business. I have both kinds and you would not believe how much damage you can do to a nicely landscaped section with ag tires. They grip but dig a hole in a hurry and leave cleat marks everywhere. If you can, consider 4 wheel drive on a smaller tractor. It helps get the power to the ground when you are moving dirt or pulling equipment with a small tractor (a 20 horse tractor doesn't weigh as much as a 100 horse tractor so doesn't 'grip' the ground as well). And take a look at the tractors with hydrostatic transmissions. Again I have both kinds and in the field the clutch and stick shift are fine because you don't change direction or speed much - but when working around trees and buildings seems like there are a thousand gear changes. Hope this helps a little,
Bob
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