Thanks for all the replies and suggestions so far! Let me try to answer some of the questions that came up. In general, I suppose at this point I'm not really hung up on a specific machine, but more looking for generalities about the class of machine I should be looking for and researching. I'm not focusing on new or used, but researching new just so I know where to start looking (and since I can't count on finding used, I should be prepared to wisely use my budget and get the best I can new). I like the idea of buying used, finding out what I like vs not and need vs not, reselling it, then getting something more specialized based on what I learn. That may just end up based on availability of used in my area.
I think, but am not certain yet, that something along the lines of either the JD 2000 series or 3000 series is about the size and power I should be looking at? The advantages of the 2000 being the smaller size and better maneuverability (helpful in the woods and for mowing), plus lighter weight resulting in less compaction. And it's cheaper all around, leaving more money for (also cheaper) implements. The 3000 has the potential for more power (there is some overlap) and comfort (like a cab), has heavier duty capabilities, and is bigger and heavier. My question is, is there anything the 3000 can do that the 2000 can't, or is it mostly a matter of getting it done faster? (and I'd even apply that question to the 1000 series) For example, 2032R vs 3320. Both pretty similar power levels (~25 PTO). The 3005 has power between the two 2000 series, so what is my advantage there? Heck, both the 2000 series have more lift and loader capacity.
Honestly, MOST of the time I'm going to be using this for mowing. I would like to till and seed with it, but that's not an every-weekend usage. And, I have some projects I'd like to tackle, but they are going to take me a while anyway. So, speed of some of the other tasks (backhoe for instance) isn't really a top priority, if I am honest with myself as to what I'll actually be using this for.
That's still an open question. We've got a six stall barn, but I think three is a more realistic number. We've done everything from ponies to shires in the past, and don't really have a preference at this point as to what breed we want. May even try to rescue a few. When it comes to fence building, I'll plan for the worst and make it as strong as anything I think would end up there. There are two small squares, comprising about an acre total directly adjacent to the barn. On the other side of the house are two giant squares, about 5.5 acres total. This backs onto the stream.
From what I've been reading, trying to hay this isn't such a good idea (at least not buying my own equipment to do), so I'm thinking it will be better instead to simply till the land and plant seeds and use it for pasture. I may eventually try to convert some of the land to a round pen or arena, but for now I want to simply enjoy the large open space!
Sorry but I've run out of time, I've been sitting here reading and drinking my coffee but have to run to work. I'll try to reply to the rest later! Piston, thanks for those links on time estimation, that was exactly what I was looking for.
I think, but am not certain yet, that something along the lines of either the JD 2000 series or 3000 series is about the size and power I should be looking at? The advantages of the 2000 being the smaller size and better maneuverability (helpful in the woods and for mowing), plus lighter weight resulting in less compaction. And it's cheaper all around, leaving more money for (also cheaper) implements. The 3000 has the potential for more power (there is some overlap) and comfort (like a cab), has heavier duty capabilities, and is bigger and heavier. My question is, is there anything the 3000 can do that the 2000 can't, or is it mostly a matter of getting it done faster? (and I'd even apply that question to the 1000 series) For example, 2032R vs 3320. Both pretty similar power levels (~25 PTO). The 3005 has power between the two 2000 series, so what is my advantage there? Heck, both the 2000 series have more lift and loader capacity.
Honestly, MOST of the time I'm going to be using this for mowing. I would like to till and seed with it, but that's not an every-weekend usage. And, I have some projects I'd like to tackle, but they are going to take me a while anyway. So, speed of some of the other tasks (backhoe for instance) isn't really a top priority, if I am honest with myself as to what I'll actually be using this for.
mud23609 said:
That's still an open question. We've got a six stall barn, but I think three is a more realistic number. We've done everything from ponies to shires in the past, and don't really have a preference at this point as to what breed we want. May even try to rescue a few. When it comes to fence building, I'll plan for the worst and make it as strong as anything I think would end up there. There are two small squares, comprising about an acre total directly adjacent to the barn. On the other side of the house are two giant squares, about 5.5 acres total. This backs onto the stream.
From what I've been reading, trying to hay this isn't such a good idea (at least not buying my own equipment to do), so I'm thinking it will be better instead to simply till the land and plant seeds and use it for pasture. I may eventually try to convert some of the land to a round pen or arena, but for now I want to simply enjoy the large open space!
Sorry but I've run out of time, I've been sitting here reading and drinking my coffee but have to run to work. I'll try to reply to the rest later! Piston, thanks for those links on time estimation, that was exactly what I was looking for.
Could you post a link to it here? 
