bigger 2wd or small 4x4

jaybirdt · Dec 10, 2002

Hi all I need a little help on deciding on what to buy
I just took out a loan for 4000.00 from my bank thats the limit I set for myself. My question is which is better a 17 to 18 hp 4x4 like a 1400d or a bigger 22 to 25 hp 2wd. I plan to use it to snowblow my 800 foot long drive and use it to mow my lawn in the summer with a finish mower.Would the 4x4 be more likely to break as i will probably put alot of hours per year. I have a craftsman 20hp garden tractor with a blower,it works o.k. but takes a while to clear the drive. I believe a 22+hp with powershift would be ok but any input would be cool. Also any dealers that read this feel free to email me with some prices I live 20miles south of Buffalo thanks howief69@aol.com

rockyridgefarm · Dec 10, 2002

I have really enjoyed my 18 hp 4WD. I would think that wpuld be a big help for snow work. The manual claims 40% more power to the ground so an 18 would be about equal to 25 hp. I know I can see a big differance with mine engaged. I also saw a big improvement when I added fluid to the tires.

My small tractor is very manueverable but then, there are some limitations due to the small frame size...

lens12 · Dec 10, 2002

I think I'd go for the larger 2WD. You shouldn't have a traction problem with a blower or mower on the back & the extra hp could be useful in doing the jobs quicker.

Soundguy · Dec 11, 2002

For snow work, traction is great. However, in tractor terms, traction is usually a relationship between weight and hp. A bigger 2wd tractor can have as much pulling power without slipping as a small 4wd. However, when dealing with large loads.. the small 4wd may not be able to handle it. In most cases, IMHO, I would try to get as much tractor for my money as possible..... and that usually means large 2wd, gear tranny. The exception is if you are doing alot of loader work... 4wd is very helpfull there.

If my choice were between a 14/15 4wd or say a 2000 2wd.. I'de gett he 2000.... you may need the extra capacity one day... you will usually 'grow' into a tractor.. and hp requitrements usually go up not down... unless you move into a condo /w3tcompact/icons/eyes.gif

Soundguy

kayssupply · Dec 11, 2002

I tell my customers the YM2000 or YM2210 are the most bang for your buck. It is very hard to get more for any less.

rdbrumfield · Dec 12, 2002

I wouldn't even consider a 2 wd. If you ever get your nose downhill with an attachment on the front you will be going for the ride of your life on slippery ground. no brakes up front.
You will gain the pto horse power, but in the end I think you be dissapointed. If 18hp will do the job, the 4wd will more than make up for the push. When using a loader there is much les strain on the frame of the tractor. Having to use calcium in the back tires puts a lot of extra weight on the front end when lifting heavy loads.

JeffRey30747 · Dec 12, 2002

I am naturally prejudiced toward 4WD so take that into account as I steer you that way. When either backing up on a steep slope or trying to ease down a slope forwards, the 4WD has an advantage. Given your prospective uses, you might also want to look into available options on whatever you choose. Retrofitting tires on a grey can be expensive, so check this out if you intend to switch to turfs or industrials to make things easier on your lawn than the stock rice tires. Also, we don't use snowblowers down here in GA (not enough snow!) but front PTO capability might be important if you are trying to keep from getting a stiff neck. Some of the domestic models had an optional front PTO assembly with an electric clutch that either may or may not be still available and who knows what greys it might fit, if any.
Best of luck on your search,
Jeff

normde2001 · Dec 12, 2002

I think most guys will agree that if you are sure you will not need a front end loader, you can get a lot more tractor in your price range with a 2WD. I got a YM2000, rotary cutter, box scraper, pond scoop, 200# suitcase weights, (all new implements), a full set of manuals and still only have about $4000 invested and it does everything I need. The only thing I need now is a cheap 4'x8' trailer, ($239 at Tractor Supply), for hauling cut brush and debris.

pruntyc · Dec 12, 2002

I read where a man said if you head down hill with an attachment on the front you are in for the ride of your life, no brakes up front. If you want to streer it you don't want brakes up front. they will lock up and won't steer at all. You are better with the front steerable. I don't live in snow country now, but was raised in it and lived most of my life in it. 4 wheel is fine in snow, most of the time, but not all. I'll take the 2 wheel drive for all around use. They will work with a loader to. a lot of men use them on 2 wheel. Unless you are going to use the loader a whole lot.

Anonymous Poster · Dec 13, 2002

Based on what you say are your major projects (lawnmowing and snowblowing), I would think a 2wd would be sufficient. I have a 500 foot gravel driveway and use the loader and 5 ft box scraper a lot and find the 4wd very valuable. 4wd comes in very handy when you are driving part way down a slope, emptying the bucket and backing up to level ground. I can come up with many other areas 4wd is useful for me, but it doesn't sound like you will be doing any of them.