Boomer Reliability Question

[marrt]

I’m just beginning to look at the Boomer line and am curious about reliability. Anyone have any comments on the reliability of the TC18 and/or TC21 models. I have seen a couple comments on other models (steering rebuilds, transmission recalls, sticking thermostats, etc…) that give me a little cause for concern. Thanks.

 

[tc35dforme]

marrt,

I'm new to the Boomer world ( TC35D ) but did spend about 1 1/2 years lurking, researching, borrowing, etc to help make my decision. You will see a scattering of "minor" issues, and a few "major" ones here on the board.

I think you need to look beyond the little glitches and select a tractor based on how it fits your needs. I agree the little stuff causes some to question the overall reliability, but I'd trade a little time swapping a plug on the block or futzin with the thermostat to get a rig that does what I want it to do in a way that suits my operating style.

I know you'll find an assortment of little problems on every manufacturer's line...its simple arithmatic...you build a bunch of tractors, every once in a while something is going to be screwed up.

Drive the tractors, find one to rent or borrow for a day and see what features and power levels you need. For most folks, buying a tractor is a long term investment ( longer than a car or truck !! ). Its worth your time looking hard and deep.

If its worth anything, I feel that I hit it dead-on with the TC35D..it does what I ask of it and more.

 

[kwright]

I bought a new TC21D almost two years ago - it has almost 250 hours on it now. I use it for finish mowing (60" belly mower), grading with a back blade, a fair amout of loader work and snow removal in the winter.

Before I bought the tractor I was "color blind"... that is, I had no loyalty to any particular brand as I've never owned a compact tractor before. Though I live in serious John Deere country, I looked at JD, Kubota, Cub Cadet and of course NH. I actually tried most of them and ultimately decided on the NH simply because I liked it: The looks, the way it operated and it seemed to have the most modern and contemporary "feel" to it.

As of this point in time, I've had no problems with it of any kind... absolutely none. Nothing has broken, fallen off, or not operated as intended or expected.

I've done all the maintenance myself and the tractor has not been back to the dealer since it was delivered in the summer of 2000.

For what it's worth.

 

[Boomerboy]

marrt,

I have the same experience as kwright; I purchased a TC29D 2 years ago - NO PROBLEMS! I love my NH Boomer! I have a little over 150 Hrs and have been religious on the maintenance.

It is a great machine and justs keeps giving.

April Showers Brings Seat Hours! /w3tcompact/icons/grin.gif

 

[banjobj]

70 hours and no problems at all. I sure do like my TC 21 D.

 

[Anonymous Poster]

I've got a TC18..60" MMM and a number of other "things" with almost 400 hours. No problems.

 

[Steelfan]

Just like Banjobj, I've got a TC21D, I use it for mowing, and loader work. I had one small leak in 120 hrs. Just a clamp that needed tightening. I bought it used, but I can't believe there was ever a problem with this tractor. Never left me down.

 

[marrt]

Thanks for the comments guys. /w3tcompact/icons/smile.gif

 

[JimBinMI]

Marrt,

My TC18 has been in service on my property since June of 1999 and it has never been back to the dealer, well at least not all of it! I took the rear turfs to the dealer to be filled with Rim Guard. I have tightened one hose clamp and one safety switch that keeps it from starting located on the rear pto lever, simple job. I think I'm close to 200 hours. Starts great, runs great, does everything that I ask it to!

Good Luck, JimBinMI