Well Designed Tractor
Model Year: 2013
It is early days yet, but... So far, I am very pleased with this tractor. While I have some gas engine Farmalls, this is my first modern diesel tractor. I had some specific jobs in mind for this tractor in addition to the usual assortment of utility tasks. I did a lot of detailed comparison shopping and finally chose the MF. It seems to be a cut above the competitors. There are some other good tractors out there, but they didn't have all the right features in the right combination. And, to be honest, many of the compact utility tractors now appear to be designed for sale to homeowners who won't use them a great deal or very intensely. The MF seems to be designed for rigorous use by frequent users. And, the operator's platform is actually large enough for people with long legs and large feet. One attractive competitor was very well made, but it seemed to be designed for much smaller operators - - - it was not comfortable to operate. So far the MF 1635 has worked well. It handles a 3-bottom 14" plow quite easily, even in hard, dry and compacted ground. I haven't met a task it can't handle (within reason), but then, I don't believe in abusing machinery. We get cold weather here, and the built-in block heater works very well. This coming spring and summer will provide an opportunity for a more thorough test, but I am certainly satisfied at this point.
Pros: Lots of space on the operator's platform. The FEL mounting frame extends the length of the tractor, avoiding stress on the engine/transmission interface. Extendable lower link arms. 12-speed transmission, with a Power Shuttle. Wide tread and high ground clearance.
Cons: No reasonable tool box. Difficult to mount from the right side.