Re: What tractor size make needed for the job?

Posted by Tyler(WA) on August 25, 2000 at 14:41:42 from (12.13.226.14):

In Reply to: What tractor size make needed for the job? posted by MT Greenhorn on August 25, 2000 at 11:46:22:

You've hit a multitude of important considerations when buying a tractor. I don't have time to go into all of them but I'm sure many will pick up on what I don't cover.

Yes, you will need a PTO to run rotary mowers, post hole diggers and any other powered implements you may need. Not all PTO's are created equal, however. You need an "independant PTO." That means it doesn't depend on the transmission drive to opperate. In short, without independant PTO, the energy from the flywheel effect of, let's say, a rotary cutter, can keep turning the PTO shaft and drive your tractor forward even after you disenguage the clutch and try to put on the brakes. Many fences and trees have been "modified" with this feature.

Most of what you seem to need doing can be done with a 30 to 40 hp rating. It's enough hp without becoming too much tractor to maneuver in tight areas.

Snow removal? You'll need that front loader for so many tasks that it isn't an option but a requirement. It's also quite handy at removing deep snow that's too deep to push with a blade. It won't replace a blade for general snow removal though. If you get deep snow very often, you might consider a rear mounted snow blower. Tractors do snow removal quite well with a good set of chains to help with traction.

Gas or Diesel? Gas starts easier in very cold weather but diesel fuel is easier on the pocket book. In cold weather, I would opt for gas but that's my preference.

Brand? They're all good. John Deere is a fine piece of equipment but a bit on the high side for cost. Ford can also get pricey. Best advice is to find what dealers are available for parts and service and stick with one of those brands. Oliver is a great tractor but if you live where the only parts are out of a mail order catalog, you will be in for a lot of down time. That's true no matter which brand you buy. Take a good look at Farmall, CASE and Massey Ferguson to name a few good tractors besides John Deere , Ford, Oliver and Cockshut.

Style? You want to go with a wide front unless you live on very flat ground. Tricycle fronts are meant for crop raising and have stability problems with a front loader.

Most of all... BE CAREFULL!!! Tractors are a real blessing for all the work they can do for you but they are also the single most cause of farm death. Get a ROPS (Roll Over Protection Structure). That's the roll bar/roll cage that you see on ALL new tractors. They also require a seat that uses a saftey belt. It does you no good to preserve a zone of safety if you're thrown under a rolling tractor because you weren't buckled in.

Good luck, gotta go.

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• Re: Re: What tractor size make needed for the job? Daniel Dickerson 14:53:26 08/25/00 (0)

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