I've had several dealers tell me that the R4s do cost a little more. I think it was something like $400 for around here. However, I decided on the R1 for the extra grip, not the cost. A few hundred on the tires shouldn't be the swaying factor for anyone looking at tractors anyway. Factor in the possible additional cost over the years you are likely to use it, and it turns out to be pocket change.
Anyway, I just got home with my new, blue, toy. Since I will be trailering often, I opted to pick up from dealer. Had him teach me all his tricks for securing, etc. etc.
I estimate the total package to be near 5,800 lbs. This is for 10K trailer, 5 ft NH tiller, 5 ft NH rotary cutter, and TC30, gear. My F150 pulled it fine, which was no surprise. I pull approximately 5,000 when I go off camping.
The trailer is a nice piece of equipment. I found it to be quite jittery empty, but it smoothed out nicely under load. The brakes work great. Out of a range from 1-10, I keep the Reese controller set at 2.5. This offered plenty of stopping power. Any higher and I noticed a considerable tug against the truck. No doubt, the trailer could stop everything, truck included, if set a little higher. I finally worked out the details on the weight distribution hitch and brake controller cables. Finished up at about 1 this morning! Now I need a few new 20 amp bus fuses and a nap. /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif
Pictures to come.