I'm trying to decide between buying a classic tractor (Ford 861) and a relatively modern tractor (MF 253). First a little background - I'm going to be mowing and doing light work on between 20-36 acres (front end loader, post hole digger, etc.). This will be my first tractor. I don't know much about engines, but I'm good with my hands and really want to learn.The way I'm looking at it, I'm going to have to learn how to work on the tractor either way. I'm guessing that the older tractor will require more maintenance. But I've read that parts are easy to get for the Ford, and it's obvious that there is a very active community more than willing to help a newbie with tips, information, etc. The tractors I'm looking at are comparable in horse power, features, etc. The main differences (as far as I can tell) are price and hours. The Ford 861 is about half the price, but it will have 3-4 times the hours. I have a close friend who is a life-long farmer and an auto mechanic. He feels pretty strongly that I should get the newer tractor. But my argument is that the older tractor costs a lot less and it will hold its value. If it ends up being too much work to keep the old machine running or I decide that I made the wrong decision, I should be able to sell it and break even or maybe make a little profit. Am I crazy considering the old machine? Am I crazy considering the newer machine? Is there a difference in power between a 56 year old tractor with 45 HP and a 13 year old tractor with 45 HP? Are there any implements that the old tractor won't be able to handle? Someone please convince me - one way or the other. Thanks, Danny
|
