Just about ready to choose

[Alpocat]

It's been a few weeks since I've posted, but I'm getting much closer to getting my first tractor.

I've narrowed my choices down to either a YM-1610D or YM-1810D with or without a FEL. First question is.....How much difference is there between these two tractors? I'm not necessarily talking specs, I know the 1810 is slightly larger with more HP. I'm talking more along the lines of longevity and workabilty. Is one of these tractors just "a better tractor" for some reason? I think I remember reading that the 1610's engine isn't sleeved. Is this a big deal?

Second question (well, I guess third)....If I don't get the FEL will I regret it? I know this is probably hard for ya'll to answer not knowing the potential uses of my tractor, but do these tractors simply work better with the extra weight up front? How often do you small acreage landowners use the FEL?

I'll be using the tractor around home and my heavily wooded 2 acres, but I have some hunting property in middle Georgia that I'll be using it on as well.

I've already crossed one hurdle in the fact that I found a trailer; the best kind, BORROWED. My brother sold his Bobcat several months back and I just found out he didn't sell the trailer. He gave me the ok to borrow his 7x20 trailer anytime I needed it. :thumbsup: and it's just 5 miles away. I'm sure it'll come back to bite me though when it's time to plant "his" food plot but hey, that's just more tractor time, right?

 

[blackd]

Can't say much re: the 16 Vs 18, but on the FEL, GET IT!!!! You won't know how much good it brings until you have one. Also, get one that goes on and off very easily. On a small tractor the weight and extension on the front can be problematic for the many times it is not needed.

My own history. I built my own FEL for my original FX24D. I would run that tractor with the bucket off, leaving the arms on. When I replaced the tractor, MF GC2400, I definitely got a FEL. This FEL takes ~5-10 minutes to put on and off.

 

[/pine]

...I'm talking more along the lines of longevity and workabilty...

My question to you is...if this is your main concern...why are you not looking at Kubotas ?

 

[California]

What makes you think a Kubota would last longer than a Yanmar - in his application and price category?

 

[MJPetersen]

The 1610 is the more popular and therefore will probably have a better parts supply. I do not have a FEL, but I wish that I did. If you can do! And make it the quick removable kind. :thumbsup:

Mike

 

[winston1]

I second or third a loader is nice and also second or third get one that is easy on/off. mines stays off more than on. Loaders can be in the way when mowing or whatever in tight locations.

 

[Alpocat]

Thanks for the responses so far guys. Please keep the comments coming. I think not having to purchase a trailer has freed up some of the FEL funds.

I'm assuming a Koyker 80 loader is easy to remove?

 

[6thgpSF]

I've got a 1610d and love the heck out of it.got a koyker80fel on it.I used to take it off but pretty much leave it on,it's like having a powered wheelbarrow ,I got some forks for it which makes it even more versatile.I really don't know how I did it before my yanmar.make sure you get 4wd if you get a loader. russ

 

[MarkV]

For sure get the FEL on that size tractor. If you were talking a tillage tractor, big HP, then maybe not. For a compact it is the best accessory you can have. If you can think of 10 things it would be handy for you will find a 100 within the first year.

MarkV

 

[montehill]

i have a 1610D with FEL. I would STRONGLY suggest you get the FEL. I had no idea how useful they are until I had a chance to use one. Now, I would not have a tractor without one! My 1610D has been a great tractor! Be sure to get the 4WD on the tractor you buy.