Looking at a MF 1540

[PACMMAX]

Hi,
I'm looking at a used MF 1540 with a Woods BH-90 BH. I don't know much about this model size but can anyone tell me if the 1540 is adequately sized for a 9 ft BH? The BH listed ontheir website seems to be closer to an 8 ft (100")?
Also as a used (albeit low hours) with the Woods BH-90, on R4's with HST, what would a good price be?
Any watch-outs or experiences with this model (good or bad). I have been shopping JD and this tractor seems to be a nice package for my needs. I have to travel a ways to get a look at it so any comments would be a huge help!

Thanks!

 

[Wobblin-Goblin]

The 1540 is an outstanding model. I don't care too much for the way MF did the Hydrostatic pedals (mine is the really slick/smooth Powershuttle), but the rest of the tractor is solid.

The Wood BH90 is a really good backhoe, don't worry about it being too much for the tractor. You should be good to go.

 

[MFRED]

That Woods BH-90X is a good fit for that tractor. Just make sure all the mounting bolts were kept tight and the holes aren't oblonged. I'd say about it's twice the backhoe the Massey makes, with twice the warranty. Plus provisions for mechanical or hydraulic thumbs. There is a bunch of tractors with that setup around here.
Tha Hydro setup with the accelerator feature is pretty slick. Almost changes my thoughts about Hydros. The power shuttle still gets my vote though.

 

[PACMMAX]

Thanks Guys,

I'm really having a tough time deciding on what to buy. I know the least about the Massey's because there isn't a dealer anywhere near me. They seem to have a nice blend of features. One of the key things I'm looking for is a hydraulic thumb on the BH. I have a lot of field stone wall work to do and while I really don't need a 9 ft BH, it seems the woods BH-90 is the only manufacturer to offer one. I have been looking at JD 3 & 4000 series but their frame mounted BH has offering for a thumb. Infact, the only brand I have seen that offers the hydraulic thumb in a smaller machine is a Kubota B26. I'm a bit concerned about the limited (26) HP and flexibility of that machine. It is also a little on the small/light side @4000 pounds fully dressed.

Any other thoughts on CUT/TLB's with an 8' +/- BH that offers a hydraulic thumb?

This 1540 sounds like a really nice tractor and the BH has the hyd thumb installed. It is a 2007 model. Have they changed much since then?

Thanks!

 

[hernando]

i have a 1540...i amy really happy with it.had some hydraluic trouble at first but the dealer took care of it...i use mine everday i do custom tractor work so it is used alot..great tractor.

 

[Bever22]

If I was going to trade my 1528 in I would get a 1540. It is a good size tractor but not too big. I just dont know if I would get the shuttle or the hydro.