New land... need a tractor!!

[IslandTractor]

I knew someone would comment on that...... Kids.......

I was concerned that there'd been an accident in your past...

 

[Citydude]

How about it DOC , getting any answers here ?

Docs probably reading the "why do we spend other people's money" thread by now.

 

[K Arno]

Hello Docsfarm
I live on a woodlot that has been part of the family for a while now. Just got a new tractor to help me with the chores. I was surprised at how much work the machine can do. Can tear things up quick if you are not careful. The right machine for you is something only you can determine. What you want to do and the land you plan to work makes a big difference. I have a long driveway. House sits behind the ones out on the road. Filling potholes with the FEL took a day vs a month with a wheel barrow and shovel. Makes doing a lot of thing easier than before. Pulled rocks out that would knock my glasses off hitting them with the plow on my pickup. dug stumps with the new backhoe.

My little machine gets it all done but takes longer than a bigger more powerful rig. Picking the right tractor is like a lover. You will know when you have the right one for you.

 

[IslandTractor]

Picking the right tractor is like a lover. You will know when you have the right one for you.

I guess that means 1) you have to put in seat time on a number of different models before deciding. 2) you should check out all specifications and measurements in advance so you are not disappointed to find inadequate capacity/size down the road, 3) Too big is as bad as too small. 4) Maintenance is critical for long term reliability. 5) you can always trade up if the first tractor doesn't meet all your needs but it is expensive to do so.

 

[Luke'sScreenName]

I guess that means 1) you have to put in seat time on a number of different models before deciding. 2) you should check out all specifications and measurements in advance so you are not disappointed to find inadequate capacity/size down the road, 3) Too big is as bad as too small. 4) Maintenance is critical for long term reliability. 5) you can always trade up if the first tractor doesn't meet all your needs but it is expensive to do so.

:laughing: :thumbsup:
I fully agree with this and will pass it on to my sons when the time is right!

I'd just add: #6 be wary of tractors with multiple previous owners!

 

[IslandTractor]

:laughing: :thumbsup:
I fully agree with this and will pass it on to my sons when the time is right!

I'd just add: #6 be wary of tractors with multiple previous owners!

Yes, that is a great cautionary consideration. I'll add another few: #7 Don't focus too much on color or country of origin in selecting a good tractor. There are few truly unique tractors and they all operate pretty much the same these days. #8 A good backhoe is a wonderful thing just make sure you choose the right bucket size for your needs. #9 Most folks don't need them but articulating tractors can contort themselves in ways that you might find useful in some settings. #10 Don't stress your tractor. If your tractor ain't happy, ain't nobody happy!

 

[docsfarm]

Could you guys just get a room or your own thread? I think we scared docsfarm off.

Lol. I'm not scared off. Actually had a busy weekend that included a visit to the Pennsylvania farm show!!! I have more comments but will type them out tonight.
Thanks!!!

 

[docsfarm]

You gonna cover the room and damage deposit?


Really the OP never participated in this thread very much. Hard to help the OP when he doesn't answer questions and doesn't pose any.
You a moderator now or just being bossy?

I think I've participated pretty well. I've answered most all the questions asked of me. Is there something I missed. Had a busy weekend. Will write more later.

 

[IslandTractor]

I think I've participated pretty well. I've answered most all the questions asked of me. Is there something I missed. Had a busy weekend. Will write more later.

Don't mind the peanut gallery. We give each other grief at every opportunity. It's like a sixth grade boy's locker room in here at times. If you can ignore the chaff there are lots of people with experience who are willing to help. Dissecting an argument can often help answer how a particular piece of equipment might work best for you or you might learn something more about tractor operating/maintenance considerations that you hadn't thought to ask. Bottom line is to filter out the crap and look for the good stuff. "There must be a pony in here somewhere".

 

[docsfarm]

Hi All, Thanks for the information. I really have read every response in this thread and have learned quite a bit.
I realize I need more tractor than I initially thought, and that it needs to be wider and heavier than I initially anticipated. I spent some time at the PA Farm show looking at things.
Here are my current thoughts.
The discussion about crossover between CUT's and UT's is very interesting. And, I must say this is part of why I came here in the first place. I must say that looking at tractors online is VERY difficult for a relative newbie. Each manufacturer is different in how they classify tractors, the model numbers change year-to year and model-to-model with respect to how they apply (ie. sometimes, but not always, is the HP part of the model number).
HP is a terrible way to compare tractors. Size is not always helpful either. Capability of one 50HP model is different than another 50HP model within the same manufacturer, AND since they don't want any model to come off as incapable, they all look amazing on the websites. I actually wish the manufacturers did a better job delineating the differences between their own models- it is really hard within a manufacturer. THEN, we try to draw comparisons to other manufacturers... Its even more difficult to make sure you are comparing tractors that are ACTUALLY similar to each other.
So, again... I started thinking that I wanted something similar to a 35hp Boomer NH. I clearly need something larger (wider and heavier) based on this thread as well as input from a family member that is a farmer that came out and saw the property (he had started me initially on the 35hp course but changed his mind after seeing the land). That leads me to this CUT/UT realm.
So far the Mahindra 5035 craigslist link seems like a pretty good fit (of course it isn't made now, and the current version seems to be 3550 for the same thing- see the confusion!). Now I'm trying to look at comparable tractors from other manufacturers. And, trying to figure out what price I should pay for a used 5035w/ implements versus does it makes sense to buy a NEW tractor instead.
So there ya go... that's where I'm at. I must say it is harder to figure out than I thought, but I'm headed the right direction... AND I have a little time before I HAVE to buy, so I'm having fun working on it!
Thanks for all the help. And keep the comments coming. Don't worry, I won't get offended or worked up at the 'side discussions'