While a smaller tractor can do just as good of a job, time can definately be a factor in deciding what to go with. I help my dad farm about 65-70 acres, so while we "could" do it with a 50 hp tractor, our power house is 105 hp. That means we can get more done in less time. I work during the week so my time to get things done is very limited. Dad does what he can during the week, but it seems most of his time is spent tending to the herd.
We have a 14' hydro-swing haybine for the same reason, over the 9' machine it replaced.
If it were me, I would absolutely go with a 100+ hp if i could. Less time in the field means more time do spend with family, friends, & hobbies.
Chances are if an 1855 Oliver has made it this far, its gonna work for a while. Most have been overhauled, and if anyone with a clue was in it they have the updates in them. That said our 1855 started getting a bad knock a few years ago. We quit running it and pulled the engine. The engine was overhauled maybe 2-300 hours before we bought it and it ran strong, but it turned out to have a mix n match of rod bolts (6 pt. and 12 pt. updated ones) and 2 pc. wrist pin bushings.
Still a good tractor, and just by observing how it ran & sounded, it prevented a ton of trouble and expense. A good operator is the first line of protection.
I would second rrlunds statement, White (and Oliver) are good cheap horsepower. Parts are still available and there is a very knowlegable base in the Oliver board.
Donovan from Wisconsin
This post was edited by Don-Wi at 12:55:10 03/15/13.
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