Re: General advice requested

Posted by F14 on February 21, 2001 at 17:30:06 from (216.252.28.166):

In Reply to: General advice requested posted by Steve on February 21, 2001 at 15:38:18:

Lots and lots of variables here. Based on your list of intended uses, I'd set a MINIMUM of 20 horsepower. More is always better, up to a point. There will be times when 40-50 horsepower would be handy.

Tilling and mowing means you'll want a power take off (PTO), preferably a 'live' or 'independent' if you plan to mow with a rotary mower (aka 'shredder' or 'brush hog')

For maximum flexibility, you'll most likely want a 3 point hitch, which can accomodate the greatest range of attachments.

If you're going to be in the woodlot, a wide front end (vs. narrow front, aka 'row crop' or 'tricycle')

Live hydraulics are also very handy, for when you want to put a front end loader on it.

Next we consider 'gas' or 'diesel'? Diesel is generally more fuel efficient and provides more torque for a given engine size. On the down side, the average shadetree mechanic can't work on them, and they can be a beast to start in the winter. Gas is easier to work on, easier to start, but uses more fuel.

Live PTO, live hydraulics and a 3 point hitch pretty much rules out pre 1955 tractors with a few exceptions.

Unless you particularly WANT one of the classics, I'd lean toward a compact utility by John Deere, Ford, Kubota, Massey Ferguson or the like. Stay away from 'grey market' machines like Yanmar, Iseki, Hinomoto and others, as support and parts are hard to find.

When you've determined the TYPE, the decision on brand is frequently based more on how far away the dealer is and how dependable the dealer is.

Good luck, and get back to us with any questions this little list may have jarred loose.

Follow Ups:

• Re: Re: General advice requested MikeH-Tx 18:20:58 02/21/01 (0)
• Re: Re: General advice requested JD790 18:19:35 02/21/01 (0)

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