I went through a long and deliberate debate between the 425 and the 1430. I looked at the heaviest things I need to routinely lift (a water tank) and was set on the 1430. I even took a trip to Tazwell, which convinced me of the diesel. So I set my mind to saving up my pennies, and in a year or so I would be able to purchase a brand spanking new 1430! Well, as plans have it, a used 425 with lots of attachments came up for auction fairly close to me and I ended up taking it home. I'm more than impressed with the 425. I have maxed out the lift capacity a few times, but have done so much more than I expected, and much quicker. I've trenched loads of drainage, moved mounds of gravel and dirt, installed scores of fence posts, dug out of more snow than I can think of this year, and moved all kinds of strange things with the forks. I've found that the front mount and quick attach mean that I am quicker to jump on the PT and tackle jobs that I would have procrastinated on, and I do everything about twice as quickly. I've had a few head scratchers getting a used PT all tuned up, but nothing much beyond the basics. I've definitely worked it very hard and have done things I never would have tried on a conventional tractor. Still wish I had the bigger diesel, but the 425 has changed my whole concept of how I tackle projects for the better.
Originally from Champaign, spent a lot of time in Bloomington - Welcome to the forum!
