I have the 1520 Ford. It has the same frame with just a few more horsepower.
The 1320/1520/1620 is a stout tractor for the horsepower. That being said, these Fords are a little short on horsepower for heavy dirt work. I have found that the three-point attachments wide enough to cover the wheel tracks tend to tax the tractor on the power side.
Will your 1320 with a loader do the job? Yes, most likely. For a minimal investment of a loader and a box scraper you can perform the grading and clean-up. But, if your 1320 is two-wheel drive, I'd look for a bigger tractor.
There are a few more questions that you should ask yourself:
- Is my tractor worth the investment of these tools? (How many hours are on it? Are there any mechanical issues that should be taken care of?)
- Would I need to upgrade to a larger pickup truck and/or trailer to safely haul a 35-hp. tractor & loader? (The anwer to this question may be more expensive than a new tractor.)
- Do you forsee that you will need a larger tractor in a few years? (If so, you may want to carefully analyze the best move.)
- Are there small-business tax implications of a tractor upgrade, now or in the future? (Ask your accountant. That's what they're for.)
I think that the 30-40 hp. tractor is the size that would be ideal, too. Most small contractors and landscapers in my area have tractors of that same size. It isn't too small or too big. But you must determine if it works in your situation.
Regarding the "tipping" dangers...just remember to always keep your loader bucket as low as practical. Don't make turns or use it on slopes with the bucket above hood level. Put fluid in the rear tires and always have your box scraper on the back. I haven't had any problems with the 1520, but have buckled my seatbelt in preparation for the worst.
