My last tractor was a Chinese Bison 25HP 4WD diesel that I bought new from Quality Farm and Fleet before they went out of business. I worked the crap out of that little tractor clearing our property in preparation to dig a pond and build our house. It did the work dragging big trees to my burn pile where my Explorer wouldn't or couldn't go.
Through the years I did all the maintenance on the tractor myself. In the 5+ years that I owned it I had to replace a few parts like batteries, voltage regulators, water pumps, glow-plugs, seals, gaskets, lots of filters, and other minor electrical items but I was lucky and never had to get into any serious repairs. The Bison was always a dependable machine and started easily in freezing weather.
I was always able to obtain needed parts for it in my own state but I must admit that no local dealers wanted to touch it for service. So when it came time to move up in size we decided to go with a brand that there would never be any problem getting reliable service or parts and the choice was New Holland. I still do whatever I can service wise, but it's comforting knowing there is a willing dealer if and when a major problem arises.
Was I sorry that I originally purchased a Chinese tractor? Absolutely not.
Would I ever purchase another Chinese tractor in my lifetime? No! /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif
