Going to look at a tractor tomorrow, tell me what to look for...

[dieselfuelonly]

Hey, thanks for the reply. I just can't afford a 10k tractor right now. I really don't think I need one that big either. I don't want to spend more than 5k on this, so I think a new tractor/large used tractor is a bit out of my range.

I would be happy with either the Yanmar or the NH. Both seem like good tractors and each has its +'s and -'s.

Based on my situation (I mainly need to mow) which is going to be a better tractor for me?

Thanks,

Dennis

 

[Grrrr]

I think you'd be better off with the Yanmar.

Ol Buddy...the odds are, if you go for any brand (used) other then Deere, Ford/New Holland or Kubota, you'll end up with a disaster. If grey market...even more of a disaster.
You'd probably even be better off buying an old Ford 8N or something of that nature before going for any of these off brand machines. Even an older utility tractor (rather then a CUT) might be a better choice.
Yanmar is a risk...but probably a little less of a risk then something like Satoh.

So, do yourself a favor...focus on the majors or buy new. A 2WD 790 would cost you about $10K new and can easily handle a 5' cutter or a 6' finish mower. It's gear, but hydrostatic trannies aren't necessary if you have any coordination at all. If your 5 acres is pretty clear (not a lot of trees), hydro trannies wouldn't be in your best interest.

BTW, since you did link to that Satoh, I looked at it's HP ratings. Although I'd suggested larger used Deeres, if you're in the market for a smaller machine, that opens the door to a Deere 670 (my first tractor and a real work horse!) or a 755. Both of those would be comparable to that Satoh in power.

But, don't waste your time on these off brand units!
What dealers do you have in your area? Even

Is MF not a biggish brand in the USA? In the UK they are probably the easiest tractor to get parts for.

But if you do want to go a bit newer, I would go with the NH.

IMO, it is a much better tractor. And if anything bad happens, there are plenty of dealers around.

HST is great for mowing, thats why they put it on all the modern lawn / garden tractors.

That tractor will also have power steering which will make life easier. It also has 4WD which will make it pull well through sticky stuff.

I think it is a better value for money tractor than the Yanmar.

 

[RoyJackson]

I'd also go with the New Holland

 

[Grrrr]

I'd also go with the New Holland

We agree on one thing

 

[dieselfuelonly]

Thanks for the help guys.

I will call tomorrow to see if the NH is still up for sale.

If it isn't I think the Yanmar is the way to go.

I think I would be happy with either tractor, either would do the job well around here.

 

[DmansPadge]

I'd also go with the New Holland

I agree. Even though it may be smaller I would prefer a USA intended New Holland that I know I can get parts for and any New Holland dealer would provide service for. It's also newer and more refined. Not to mention it is 4WD and has HST which are both at the top of the "want" list on a small tractor.

 

[RoyJackson]

I Not to mention it is 4WD and has HST which are both at the top of the "want" list on a small tractor.

That is...if you want them...

 

[dieselfuelonly]

I guess the HST is ok with me, as long as its as tough as a standard. 4wd, I can't really see a downside to having that .

 

[RoyJackson]

I guess the HST is ok with me, as long as its as tough as a standard. 4wd, I can't really see a downside to having that .

HST is a convenience if you want it...4WD is real handy sometimes.
I wouldn't pay the extra $1500-2000 for the HST though.

Oops...now this will turn into an HST vs. Gear debate!!

Better go buy the TC 18 before that debate starts!

 

[DmansPadge]

That is...if you want them...

That is true... but I don't know anyone who wouldn't want 4WD if the option was there. HST/gear is a preference but I think most small tractor owners prefer HST if they have had the chance to experience both.