Slashing/Hogging Contractor
Model Year: 1986
I bought this tractor second hand in 2000 with reasonably low hours on it. The air conditioning has given me a lot trouble, but it does get a constant and hard work out in the harsh Australian summers. The electrics (mostly the wiring) are the worst system on these tractors, which is surprising as most of the components are Bosch. They must be poor quality or cheap parts. The cab linings are now starting to show their age, but overall the tractor still performs well mechanically, and is reasonably reliable for its 30-year age. Sure, it hasn't got all the bells and whistles of most of the new tractors, but it didn't cost me a lot of money and I don't have to put a lot of money into it, so it provides me with an honest and reliable tractor. Like all John Deere parts, they are expensive, but there are some aftermarket parts available and there is also the used parts market available now. Would I buy another used JD tractor? I would, but it would depend on how it has been looked after and of course its price.
Pros: Honest reliable tractor
Cons: Expensive genuine parts