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Re: What is a good first tractor?
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Posted by C.C. on July 27, 1999 at 00:01:15 from (208.159.121.171):
In Reply to: What is a good first tractor? posted by Joe L on July 26, 1999 at 15:14:02:
Keep in mind, this is just my opinion, but I think most of what the guys are suggesting is a little big. I farm about 100 acres in east Kentucky(lots of hills, so only about 20 acres of good fields, though next year I'm looking at about 30 or so). I run a Ford 3000 and have plenty of power to do anything I need. Currently I only do hay, so I've got no advice on the rowcropping. I cut with an older Ford 515 sickle bar mower, rake with an NH 256 roll-a-bar rake, and I bale with a NH 565 square baler, which from the sounds of it, you would never need any more baler than that. The 565 will make the 3000 grunt a little, especially on hills and in heavy hay, but nothing the tractor can't handle. The tractor is also small enough to let me do some garden work, which around here is a good easy way to pick up some extra cash. I pull 2-14's for a plow and a six foot wobbler disc. The tractor is now 33 years old and has served my family well since '77. Though the steering box is now leaking oil down onto the transmission clutch, this is the only problem the tractor has ever had(knock on wood)and the tractor has been rolled at lest once. The front end is a little light, especially for loader work, but one could always move up to a 4000 for not much more money. And the 4000 is a lot heavier duty machine, and will outwork a 3000 buy miles. If buying an older machine, I would consider gas over diesel. I know, some people would ask if I'm crazy, but I personally would much rather work on a dirty ol' carb than diesel injectors, and I believe most would agree that a carb is a lot cheaper to work on as well. Acording to NH, the 3000 is rated at 39 pto hp, the 4000 at 48(I think) pto hp. Parts are still readily available, ROPS are available, and these tractors have a proven tract record for being reliable. The 3000 has been a great "first tractor" for me (and really I guess I should say dad's first tractor as well, he was the one who bought it, I just drive it now). Though I do beleive the my next first tractor will a little bigger, probably be someting like a 4000 or 4600(just a later model of the 4000). Again, this is just my opinion, but something along the lines of this should do you well. I will agree and say that whatever color tractor you buy, be sure to have a good local dealer. That alone could determine what brand you buy. Geez, I didn't realize I had wrote this much, sorry to be so long winded. Hope this helps. Casey
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