decisions desisions

[bp fick]

Ryan, because local prices vary so greatly from country to county and because of currency differentials, it is hard for us North Americans to comment intelligently on whether this price or that price is good for this or that tractor.

What we can comment on is the quality of particular tractors, based on the collective experience of the guys here on the forum. Although we aren't familiar with South African dealer support networks for parts availability, the internet is a great tool, but again, SA may have import duties and such that changes how easy it is to have parts shipped in, and from where.

 

[bp fick]

Finally, beware Japanese tractors bought from the domestic market in Japan, where custom dictates they constantly buy new tractors. These used tractors are oft times shipped by the boat load to VietNam or other low-cost labor country and given little more than a paint job and decals. Then, these machines get re-sold at what appears to be great prices elsewhere in the world. caveat emptor.

 

[RoyJackson]

Gents,
When you respond, just remember that the OP (Ryan) is in South Africa. What we consider "grey market" might be normally imported tractors. Tractors and associated parts commonly available to us in the US may not be easily available to our South African friends.

For Ryan:
For the long term, I'd ante up and buy the Kubota (which is a familar and popular brand in the USA). Landini's aren't well known in the USA, so no comment. If a John Deere dealer is around, maybe worth a visit.
Granted, the Kubota, Landini and Deere would be more expensive initially, but may be the best choice for the long term.

 

[flusher]

I would suspect that the Massey is priced fairly for his area based upon the prices he quoted on the other tractors. $15.5K for a Jinma/ $12.8K for a Hino ( ouch) but hey, I assume this is the price of living is S. Africa. At those prices, the Massey is an absolute steal......

I don't think so--not when you figure that the Jinma and Hino are fairly recent models (10-15 years old tops) and the 135 is a 30-40 year old tractor.

 

[Weldon]

Do you have any Mahindra dealers there? They make very good tractors.

 

[zimbo]

Thanks for all the replies guys, I have a lot to think about.
I had a Yanmar 330D and eventually gave it away because I couldnt get spares!

If I go for something the size and weight of the massey I wont need 4wd, with good tyres the machine will have plently of traction.

I can also get Landini / McCormick which is a big brand here, New holland, John Deere, Massey. Kubota etc. I'll also have a look at farmtrac, which is an indian copy of the old ford models. Farmtrac Tractors in South Africa

Im beginning to think I'll save up a bit more, and get something really good, that I know will have spares in the years to come.

What ever I get I'll be putting some pics up here to show everyone!
Thanks
Ryan