Hi California.
I think the whole concept of buying a first tractor with limited experience is a venture into the unkown. I have not looked into new warranties but i do know that sometimes they only cover parts and as such, no matter what option i choose, it seems wise to keep some cash stashed just in case. I'm unsure if the lemon law here covers new "heavy equiptment", something i will add to my list, to check into that.
I dont want to find myself in a horror story. I dont want to expect unreasonable things from any one i buy from and i certainly dont want to aid others into smearing a seller by opening the door for others to do so. My personal opinion was that specific situation appeared to be a set up right from the start. I personally will not drag any seller out onto a public message board no matter if my experience is good, bad, or neutral. That is very wrong in my opinion and those who gang up are twice as bad. I would just as soon buy the old 8n up the road for $1200 then get involved with what has been referred to by others as the "soap opera" syndrome. I'm here to get info on buying and mabe eventually troubleshooting/repairing, a tractor, not help pump up or bring down any seller.
On that note, i will ensure that i have all the needed manuals for whatever tractor i get so that either i, or the mechanic i eventually find will have the needed recources from the start. After thinking about it and my location, i am sure there are many reputable diesel mechanics in my area or surrounding areas that would love to have my money if and when the need arises. I am also sure that one of the larger parts dealers are not too far (in terms of Texas distances that is) from here. I'm also pretty sure for a case of beer or two, i should be able to get some one very knowledgeable of tractors in general to take a look at any machine i wish to purchase.
I dont think i am suspicious, cautious i am for sure. Besides i also have to eventually justify to my own higher command a major, minor purchase that will take a chunk out of the budget. Even after answering the who, what, why, when, and where, i still suffer the fate of the disection of each answer i come up with that lead to the whole questioning process starting over.
As i think i said, this is my (our) first ever purchase, unless if you consider the used lawn tractor i presently have. I got lucky with it, as so far its only needed a battery and currently needs new front tires,ummm and a sping tune up. It has mowed my front acre+ several+ times and short of needing the new tires has provided me excellent results. But i know, useing it basically as a brush hog is taking its toll quickly.
After all the negative feed back on chineese tractors, for now i will stick to thier food and dishware. Goes to show what a few peoples words can do for a sellers/companys reputation. I think for me it is wise not to buy a tractor that has less then a 15 year history in the US.
I do appreciate your candidness. And oh, for the record, yes i did know the answer to my sending a mechanic question. It was intended to be silly. Just as silly as buying a tractor i have never seen or touched. I might as well bid on one on ebay from the guy in Nigeria who will hold it for 5 grand.
Thanks for the feed back, its well taken and apreciated.
Lions