12 miles on the road?

sonofczechgun · Feb 7, 2006

On Christmas day the church asked for some straw for the nativity scene - I hooked up the trailer from my jeep to Jed (Kubota B1750), loaded straw, all the kids and an airedale and we took it to the church together. It was fun - 3 miles one way on local virginia roads - but it got bit boring on the end, at least for me. Kids loved it and so did the dog.

Freds · Feb 7, 2006

I agree with RonR. My time and the stress it would cause, me - not the tractor, isn't worth saving $180, but I would look for another dealer. The place I got my tractor is more than 12 miles away and they charge $35. At least they did a year ago, I'm sure it's gone up a little. They schedule it with other drop offs or pick ups so they aren't making a special trip just for me.
Is around $180 the norm for such a short distance?

AMR · Feb 7, 2006

Thanks all for your thoughts on this!

When I was in high school I used to drive tractors on a tobaco farm, we used to have Farmall Super H's, H's, M's, A's, Super A's, and we used to drive all around town bringing rigs to barns, what a great time. Yes, even that got boring as a 13 year old, though.

I have not decided on the trip. I will probably do it once and never again!

I will let you all know.

I have an eye out for a trailer right now too.

RobertN · Feb 7, 2006

I've moved my B8200 about 4 miles, down to the fire station to help out. I ran it in 2wd, made sure my hazards were working and SMV plaque was clearly visible. Then I ran it up to PTO speed, and rolled right along.

My biggest fear was not anything with the tractor. I was primarily concerned about other motorists...

AntrimMan · Feb 7, 2006

The wear and tear will be minimal.
But do get your ducks lined up.
Can you carry enough fuel?
Do you need to be registered?
What about insurance?
How many lawyers are in Western CT?

I would leave very early AM on Monday morning planning to arrive at the dealer around 6AM to avoid most traffic and have a ride home meet me there.

Sounds exciting.

All the best,
Martin

B8FISH · Feb 7, 2006

I would say go for it. Definitely not at 1/2 throttle, but at full throttle. Stop for coffee about a 1/3 of the way (if possible), take another "bio" break at the 2/3 mark and then mosey on the rest of the way. If you leave at 49 hours on the clock--you'll be right on schedule /forums/images/graemlins/cool.gif I would also toss my bike in the front bucket, and get some "real" exercise out of the deal on the way home /forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif

Berniep · Feb 8, 2006

If ya just gotta go to the dealer then I would drive it. Except 180 bucks sound like the total bill for pickup and 50 hour service. Gee wiz thats a bunch of money just to go 12 miles( ok 48 total miles for the dealer to pickup and deliver but thats still 3.75 a mile. He ought to be pullin it with a real nice drop deck and a big ole Peterbuilt)
When I asked my dealer about them doing the 50 hour service on my BX23 he looked at me like I was nuts. I did it myself and its actually very simple. I even cheated a little and didn't take engine cowling all the way off so I wouldn't have to remove the brush guard. The hardest part was getting the tranny fluid back in without spilling it. But that was just lack of preperation in not having a funnel with a hose on it.

cheesehead · Feb 8, 2006

Order a manual, fluids and the filters from TractorSmart. The service can be accomplished for less than the transportation charges, and you'll know your tractor better because of it. Besides that, you can do the service when you are ready and have the tractor back when you need it.

midlf · Feb 8, 2006

It will take you less time to do the 50hr than to get the tractor in for it at the dealer.

JerryG · Feb 8, 2006

Do the service yourself. That way you will become more familiar with your tractor. I am sure that there is a thread here that tells how to do it, if you do a search. If there isn’t, there are members here that will give you knowledgeable support with any problem that you might encounter.

If you do drive, other motorists are the problem. Leave in time to get there before morning traffic or leave after morning rush. Put your safety placard on the back, turn your flashers on and I would also suggest getting one of those inexpensive amber revolving lights. People in cars will come around corners and such then come close to hitting you if you’re not lucky. I have driven my tractor to the dealer two or three times and other people scare me. I trailer mine now.