bmac
Veteran Member
Well, folks, I have come to a decision on a tractor that, until about 2 weeks ago, I didn't think would happen. Before I spill the beans, I've got a few things to say.
I began my search for a tractor about a year ago. I was convinced that a Kubota BX22 was exactly what I needed. However, never going into anything without over-researching it, I happened upon TBN and began to spend way too much time reading these forums. Still looked like the BX22 was just right for me. However, before I finalized my purchase decision, I decided to check out this strange creature that Moss Road had been referring to in other sections. He made it sound interesting, at least.
Well, late last August (I believe), I ventured into the Power-Trac section and began to read. And read. And read some more. "Man, this is one cool machine!", I thought to myself. So I began asking questions. And, boy-oh-boy, did the responses start coming. Everyone on this site was so helpful, sharing their experiences and recommendations, listening to my goofy questions without being judgemental in their responses. As I mentioned in one of my earlier posts, I felt as if I were being sucked into a cult or something. I kept waiting for the Kool-Aid (sorry if this reference is too obscure).
Anyway, after awhile, I became convinced that I needed one of these machines. I began to envision all of the things I could do, started making a list of the attachments I would get. I ordered the literature and video from PT, talked to the salesman a couple of times with questions, showed the literature to friends and family. I was just waiting for the proper time (financially) to take the plunge.
As Spring arrived, it became clear that I needed to make a decision. It was over the past month that I began getting cold feet about the service issues related to the PT. Despite being put at ease by many of you when I first voiced this concern last Fall, I came to realize that I just didn't have the know-how or time to diagnose and repair problems that would eventually arise. Furthermore, I don't have many small engine repair shops in my area and the one I used to use now only services products they sell. So, as these doubts began to resurface, I again started looking at the Big 3 again (actually, just orange and blue - my green dealer is way over-priced, I believe).
To make a long story even longer, I have decided to get a NH 24D with FEL, backhoe and mower. While I could have gotten a PT425 and probably most implements they offer for what I am going to pay for the NH package, I just feel more comfortable with a machine that I know I can have serviced locally. I know I am going to miss the quick attach features and versatility of the PT - the very things that so excited me about these machines. Also, I'm already getting nervous about the safety issues associated with conventional PTOs, the stability issues of these tractors, etc. All-in-all, I hope I'm making the right decision.
While I've never been a "regular" on this forum, I feel I've come to know many of you somewhat just by reading the posts and engaging in discussions on occassion. Moss Road, to me is the PT ambassador. He represents this forum well both here and in the other sections of TBN. In fact, it was he who led me here from one of the other sections and who "nursed" me along in the early days. His web site is serving new PT owners well with the service instructions and demonstrations. Hans, the "test pilot" amazes me with his vision of what might be possible with the PT as he is always looking at ways to configure other implements to make them work on this platform. Charlie, I see as the "gentleman farmer". Well-spoken, thoughtful, logical. A real intellect. In fact, everyone who participates on this forum brings something unique to the table. It has been a real learning opportunity for me. I really wish I had the "guts" to take the plunge and get the PT.
So, I extend a huge thank you to everyone who has taken his time to share their knowledge and expertise with me. In many respects, I feel like I have stolen time from you as I didn't follow through with my original plan. I don't know how fast you all type, but for me, each post I make seems to take forever. So, as I reflect on this, I feel a little guilty for wasting your time and effort. My apologies.
I will continue to follow the PT adventures on this forum. Probably will be kicking myself in the rear for not getting one myself. In any event, again, I thank you all.
Regards,
Bruce
I began my search for a tractor about a year ago. I was convinced that a Kubota BX22 was exactly what I needed. However, never going into anything without over-researching it, I happened upon TBN and began to spend way too much time reading these forums. Still looked like the BX22 was just right for me. However, before I finalized my purchase decision, I decided to check out this strange creature that Moss Road had been referring to in other sections. He made it sound interesting, at least.
Well, late last August (I believe), I ventured into the Power-Trac section and began to read. And read. And read some more. "Man, this is one cool machine!", I thought to myself. So I began asking questions. And, boy-oh-boy, did the responses start coming. Everyone on this site was so helpful, sharing their experiences and recommendations, listening to my goofy questions without being judgemental in their responses. As I mentioned in one of my earlier posts, I felt as if I were being sucked into a cult or something. I kept waiting for the Kool-Aid (sorry if this reference is too obscure).
Anyway, after awhile, I became convinced that I needed one of these machines. I began to envision all of the things I could do, started making a list of the attachments I would get. I ordered the literature and video from PT, talked to the salesman a couple of times with questions, showed the literature to friends and family. I was just waiting for the proper time (financially) to take the plunge.
As Spring arrived, it became clear that I needed to make a decision. It was over the past month that I began getting cold feet about the service issues related to the PT. Despite being put at ease by many of you when I first voiced this concern last Fall, I came to realize that I just didn't have the know-how or time to diagnose and repair problems that would eventually arise. Furthermore, I don't have many small engine repair shops in my area and the one I used to use now only services products they sell. So, as these doubts began to resurface, I again started looking at the Big 3 again (actually, just orange and blue - my green dealer is way over-priced, I believe).
To make a long story even longer, I have decided to get a NH 24D with FEL, backhoe and mower. While I could have gotten a PT425 and probably most implements they offer for what I am going to pay for the NH package, I just feel more comfortable with a machine that I know I can have serviced locally. I know I am going to miss the quick attach features and versatility of the PT - the very things that so excited me about these machines. Also, I'm already getting nervous about the safety issues associated with conventional PTOs, the stability issues of these tractors, etc. All-in-all, I hope I'm making the right decision.
While I've never been a "regular" on this forum, I feel I've come to know many of you somewhat just by reading the posts and engaging in discussions on occassion. Moss Road, to me is the PT ambassador. He represents this forum well both here and in the other sections of TBN. In fact, it was he who led me here from one of the other sections and who "nursed" me along in the early days. His web site is serving new PT owners well with the service instructions and demonstrations. Hans, the "test pilot" amazes me with his vision of what might be possible with the PT as he is always looking at ways to configure other implements to make them work on this platform. Charlie, I see as the "gentleman farmer". Well-spoken, thoughtful, logical. A real intellect. In fact, everyone who participates on this forum brings something unique to the table. It has been a real learning opportunity for me. I really wish I had the "guts" to take the plunge and get the PT.
So, I extend a huge thank you to everyone who has taken his time to share their knowledge and expertise with me. In many respects, I feel like I have stolen time from you as I didn't follow through with my original plan. I don't know how fast you all type, but for me, each post I make seems to take forever. So, as I reflect on this, I feel a little guilty for wasting your time and effort. My apologies.
I will continue to follow the PT adventures on this forum. Probably will be kicking myself in the rear for not getting one myself. In any event, again, I thank you all.
Regards,
Bruce