ernstv
New member
I am looking for feed-back regarding suggested tractor models that would work well for my small farming operation (30 acres of wild hay, 40 acres of CRP, 0.5 mile drive way).
I currently own an Oliver 770 gas tractor (wide front), that I have used for the last 20 years for baling, mowing, manure spreading and snow removal duties. Engine HP is in the mid to upper 50's, with a PTO rating of 47. During haying season, I use a 9ft. New Holland 'haybine' for cutting, and a (small) IH baler. During my tenure, I have never felt this tractor to be under-powered.
Having reached a stage of my life where money is more abundant, I am exploring the notion of replacing the Oliver with something a bit newer. What I had in mind, was a tractor of similar HP and capabilities, however, with the added luxury of having a heated/cooled cab.
Having looked (and visited) with a number of dealers, it appears that most all manufacturers have something in their line-up that (I feel) fits my needs. At this point I have the following models on my radar:
Kubota M5700 & M6800
Mahindra 6110
Kioto DK65
Ideally, I would like to find a 'gently' used model of later vintage with (up to) 1,000-1,500 hrs on it.
My visits with dealers have been somewhat frustrating, in that all have tried to steer me to their larger models once I have shared what usage the tractor will see. As such, I am looking for your input. I don't necessarily conform to the 'bigger is better' notion, and actually wouldn't mind a tractor with a smaller foot print, as the Oliver can be a bit of a beast around the yard. However, I do understand that I may have to consider factors other than HP ratings when shopping around.
I plan to use this tractor until retirement (15-20 yrs), with anticipated yearly usage of approx. 100 hrs.
Your thoughts?
I currently own an Oliver 770 gas tractor (wide front), that I have used for the last 20 years for baling, mowing, manure spreading and snow removal duties. Engine HP is in the mid to upper 50's, with a PTO rating of 47. During haying season, I use a 9ft. New Holland 'haybine' for cutting, and a (small) IH baler. During my tenure, I have never felt this tractor to be under-powered.
Having reached a stage of my life where money is more abundant, I am exploring the notion of replacing the Oliver with something a bit newer. What I had in mind, was a tractor of similar HP and capabilities, however, with the added luxury of having a heated/cooled cab.
Having looked (and visited) with a number of dealers, it appears that most all manufacturers have something in their line-up that (I feel) fits my needs. At this point I have the following models on my radar:
Kubota M5700 & M6800
Mahindra 6110
Kioto DK65
Ideally, I would like to find a 'gently' used model of later vintage with (up to) 1,000-1,500 hrs on it.
My visits with dealers have been somewhat frustrating, in that all have tried to steer me to their larger models once I have shared what usage the tractor will see. As such, I am looking for your input. I don't necessarily conform to the 'bigger is better' notion, and actually wouldn't mind a tractor with a smaller foot print, as the Oliver can be a bit of a beast around the yard. However, I do understand that I may have to consider factors other than HP ratings when shopping around.
I plan to use this tractor until retirement (15-20 yrs), with anticipated yearly usage of approx. 100 hrs.
Your thoughts?