Buying Advice Need help deciding on first tractor

[4570Man]

He never said new, and mentioned a couple of used tractors he's interested in. I think it's going to be tight either way for $10K, but possible if he's willing to look at older machines and stick to 2wd.

New is where the other posters are swaying him. My neighbor bought a used DK40 4x4 with a loader capable of lifting round bails for $11,000.

 

[Dfwflyr]

What I have done in the past (3 times now) is put down $2K on a new tractor with zero percent financing for 60 months. That gave me a tractor I did not have to worry about fixing every time I wanted to use it, a warranty, and insurance to fix any mishaps. If things don't work out resale value for diesel tractors is usually very good.

A new case 75hp is in my future but right now I'm not comfortable taking on another payment especially with a house I have been in only 90 days and already had to sink a considerable chunk of money into after moving in. The problem I'm having now is things like having to move 5 yards of gravel with a shovel and a UTV bed and other dirt work. I'm moving round bales for the horses by hand and it's taking a toll on my body

 

[wcampbell47]

What I have done in the past (3 times now) is put down $2K on a new tractor with zero percent financing for 60 months. That gave me a tractor I did not have to worry about fixing every time I wanted to use it, a warranty, and insurance to fix any mishaps. If things don't work out resale value for diesel tractors is usually very good.

I admit freely I am a fool for good tools. Been that way all my life. Have seldom purchased used equipment hoping it will last or do the job intended. I value my time and now that I am much older I don't want to punish my body as I did when younger. I can't do the work I did 30 years ago, so I depend on a good tool to give me an edge.

Unsolicited advise: don't work yourself to to point you can't enjoy time with your partner.

 

[motownbrowne]

I don't know of any new 10k tractor that can lift a round bail with the FEL. Will the 3 point hitch be able to lift high enough? It is about the only way to lift a round bail with a 10k tractor.

There's a new tractor for $10,000 with a FEL??

 

[4570Man]

There's a new tractor for $10,000 with a FEL??

I believe a BX or comparable tractor cost about that.

 

[sea2summit]

I believe a BX or comparable tractor cost about that.

There isn't BX that will lift a round bale.

 

[4570Man]

There isn't BX that will lift a round bale.

I'm fully aware of that. Did you read the thread?

 

[sea2summit]

I'm fully aware of that. Did you read the thread?

Did you?

Primary use right now will be moving round bales, digging what I can to level clay soil in the horse stable and other dirt work before we get to pasture cutting.

 

[motownbrowne]

I believe a BX or comparable tractor cost about that.

I wish... The smallest BX has an MSRP of $9,971... without a loader.

Sorry for the sidetrack, OP, you're in a tough spot. Personally, if you know you'll be buying a new 70 HP machine in the next few years, I'd recommend just going for it now. The financing deals are good and you could have a reasonable payment.

Failing that option, I'd look at used M series Kubotas. One member here scored a real nice M4700 for under $10k at a public surplus auction. 4wd is real nice to have, and you won't find that on old iron. Might have to stretch the budget a little, or do some traveling, but there's deals to be had.

Or, find an old heavy two wheel drive with a loader. Make sure the loader is all-hydraulic, not trip style. Make sure you've got power steering, decent tires, and ideally a differential lock. In addition to old ag tractors, one can often find industrial versions from the same period. These are lower, and heavier with a more powerful loader. If you pursue this option, I'd really recommend bringing a mechanic with you when you go shopping. The money you pay them will be worth it. Also, make sure you're ready to tackle some repairs. Buy a set of combination wrenches up to 2" and a 3/4" socket set. A big impact driver is awful nice too.

 

[4570Man]

Did you?

Yes, and I never recommended a BX. I said I didn't know of any new 10k tractor that can lift a round bail, and another poster said you couldn't get any new tractor for 10k.