Ag vs. R4 tires

[gregfender]

Another newbie question...

I am trying to decide between R4 and ag tires on my future machine (planning on purchasing within the next 3 months). I doubt I will use the tractor on the yard with the exception of crossing every now and then. My main purpose will be land clearing, leveling, hauling, and some small scale vegetable gardening. How much of a loss of traction will R4's have compared to ag's? also, what are some of the "real world" wear differences?

 

[Wacky]

Another newbie question...

I am trying to decide between R4 and ag tires on my future machine (planning on purchasing within the next 3 months). I doubt I will use the tractor on the yard with the exception of crossing every now and then. My main purpose will be land clearing, leveling, hauling, and some small scale vegetable gardening. How much of a loss of traction will R4's have compared to ag's? also, what are some of the "real world" wear differences?

Welcome to TBN.
Depends on the size machine too. I have the R1's (ags) on my GC, was going to go w/ the R-4's, when I bought my tractor. I am happy I didn't. The R-1's work great!! I use my GC for mowing the yard w/no tear ups, unless wet grass. However the ground around here is hard clay, so depending on the ground you use yours on could do more damage. I take pride in the presentation of my yard, so yes, I am a bit OCD on a good looking lawn. I also find that the R1's show minimal wear w/ about 30 hrs. Also do a search, this is a topic that has been covered in detail.

 

[Baby Grand]

If you're looking to maximize traction for earth engaging or snow plowing or stump pulling and such, I'd go with the R1/ags. If stability with a hoe or FEL is a priority, I'd go with the R4s. I have about 200 hrs on a pair of R1s and I can't see any wear on 'em.

One thing to think about - the R1s are usually mounted on wheels that allow you to change rear track width. This width flexibility could be useful, depending on if your needs should change. For working in the woods or on unevern ground, I'd want to have them set as wide as they go. For vegetable gardening, I might prefer to be able to set them up to work with my row spacing & what few implements I have.

-Jim

 

[jlsmith]

I agree with the OP depends on what type of work you would be doing. All my tractors have ag/R1. How big of a tractor are you looking into. Most of the cut's i sell have R4 tires and the bigger UT's have R1. But i have sold a few cut's with ag.

 

[gregfender]

I agree with the OP depends on what type of work you would be doing. All my tractors have ag/R1. How big of a tractor are you looking into. Most of the cut's i sell have R4 tires and the bigger UT's have R1. But i have sold a few cut's with ag.

I am looking at getting around a 30-40HP machine. I would prefer a larger frame, but I have looked a a couple of 35hp smaller frames that might be the ticket.

 

[bigbull338]

i have R4 tires on my tractor because they was on the tractor when i bought it.they are somewhat tougher than R1 ag tires.ive had mine in thorns an so far no flats.they dont rut the ground up unless its super muddy.

 

[jlsmith]

I am looking at getting around a 30-40HP machine. I would prefer a larger frame, but I have looked a a couple of 35hp smaller frames that might be the ticket.

Its always to go alittle bigger than needed in most cases. I know MF makes a MF2615 that would be in the larger frame your talking about. I know that bota and JD also have this style but not shure what the numbers are. Best advise is to set on each one and see which one you like best after all your the one operating it not any one on here. As far as the tire so ask around your area and see what they are useing, they are in the same dirt and probly can advise you and what is better in your area.:thumbsup:

 

[Diamondpilot]

I have R1's on both my tractors, would not even consider anything else. My newest tractor has 850 hours on it and I would say they are still 90%. I spend 1/3 of my time mowing, 1/3 in the woods skidding logs, and 1/3 doing chores with the FEL like pushing snow, moving dirt and gravel, ect.

Chris

 

[teg]

My R4's are very wide, IMHO too wide for planting / farming so I wish I had R1's for that job. I also wish I had more traction with my R4 tires but I run around a bunch on my yard so it's a trade off...

 

[JoelD]

Try a quick search and you'll find many lengthy posts on this subject, almost as many as hst versus gear. There is a lot of good info on the forum.

Joel