Buying Advice I need expert help. 1.5 Acres, Small Hill, Some gardening

[DieselMonk]

At least the Kubota is a step in the right direction. On a hill I'd look for something 4WD... but that is my preference...

 

[jenkinsph]

I agree with the others if it is 4x4 and in decent shape it is something to consider. My only qualms is the cost of snowblower/blade add ons. It would be ideal to find a used machine with the attachments you want in good condition (all used). I would price out the snow equipment to see how that would work out if you buy the bare tractor.

 

[PatasColo]

Hey jplayland,
Thinking a little "outside the box" here, there might be another couple options for you. A Gravely walk-behind (aka two wheel tractor) can sometimes be picked up with a lot of implements for under $2000. I got one with a 40" mower and ride-on sulky for under $500... works like a champ, and mows finished lawn as well as rough field (it's built like a tank... I believe it weighs around 700 lbs.) They are older and many of them just keep on running... it helps to have a bit of willingness to work on things (I replaced the fuel pump and fuel lines on mine; just takes patience).

If you're interested to learn a bit more, here's a link to the manual for mine, and it shows pictures of many of the implements (mine was built sometime between 1969 and 1972). http://www.oldgravelys.net/pdf/Com_10A_12_Own_Man_0969.pdf

There are also some older (1960-70's) 4-wheel garden tractors that have a similar array of implements, and can sometimes be picked up for under 2 or 3000 dollars (the good ones go quickly). I believe Wheel Horse, Case, and Bolens are tractors of this type I've seen with up to a half-dozen implements (on craigslist), and are similarly built to "last forever" if well maintained.

Best of luck!
-Mitch