Padmakar, I would give some serious consideration to the Farmtrac. I too am looking to purchase a new tractor and have researched the brands a bit. In 2000, New Holland bought Ford"s tractor business and took over production of the "blue" tractors. During the 70"s and 80"s a company there in India, I believe by the name of Escort, produced the tractors that were widely loved here in America. With the purchase of the Ford tractor business by New Holland and not the designs and patents of the older tractors, Escort purchased the designs and patents on the older tractors that they had been producing for years and renamed the tractors, Farmtrac. In addition Escort makes and markets the Long brand of tractors, though they are completely different from the Farmtracs (Fords). As the other posts have mentioned, service after the sale is one of the most important things to look for. There is no substitute for a readily available source of parts in the event you experience a problem. I have heard it said and cannot verify it, that many of the parts between the original Fords are interchangeable with parts on the new Farmtracs. While I like the classic design, I would have to bet that engine parts would not qualify for interchangeability due to the technological advances over the last 20-30 years. The Farmtrac has been my most serious contender thus far for several reasons: 1. The hoods and cowlings are still made of metal on the larger tractors and I view this a bit more forgiving than plastic. I had rather put a dent in a hood than tear it off due to being plastic. 2. Price. Because it is the same design efficiency of production and less re-inventing the wheel has lowered production costs. 3. Simple design. They do not have a lot of fancy bell and whistles that will later break and render the tractor inoperable. 4. Pletiful availability of parts. My dealer locally says he can have any part within 48 hours. Hope this helps you to make an informed purchase.
|