need a mower

[sgtmike]

I just got a used Ford 1500 diesel 4WD. Lucky me, it was a gift from father-in-law. I'm looking for a mower. I have just under 3 acres, most of it grass (bermuda), some on slope.

Is there such a thing as a mid-mount or belly mower for this tractor? PTO is on rear.

I'm also thinking about a loader and a box scraper.

Any tips for a novice tractor owner on where to look for implements at good value?

 

[Bob_Skurka]

As for finding deals on equipment, there is a lot of used equipment out there that is actually in pretty good condition and the prices are usually much lower than comparable new stuff. Box scrapers are very common on the used market. You might want to look for one that has adjustable/removable scarifiers and a reversable blade.

I am not particularly familiar with your model tractor, but if you don't have a mid-pto then you will have to mount a mid mount mower off of the 3-pt hitch in the rear. They have an undercarriage that runs under the tractor and the deck is powered by a belt that will run from the rear pto. Often you will slip a pulley onto the PTO shaft. I've seen several models made by WOODS, and they can be seen on a lot of older tractors.

But, the downside to those systems is that when you want to use another implement you have to take the whole thing apart. I am not saying don't get one, I am just pointing out that they are somewhat less convenient if you plan to swap your implements a lot. If the tractor will mostly be a mowing machine, then you won't mind the effort.

As for loaders, you might want to check with a local tractor dealer and see if they have an aftermarket loader than can be installed. Typical brands include Buhler Farm King, Rhino, Great Bend and several others.