Notforhire
Veteran Member
While it would be a fantastic thing to have, an front end loader really stresses the price point.
I have located a dozen decent looking old Ford 2000s and 3000s, as well as a handful of Massey 135's and 35s.....none have a loader which will end up being another $1500 on top of the price of the tractor. At this point, if I'm getting a tractor, I'm going to go for the bush hog first. It will offer me the most utility in the beginning.
If you intend on getting a loader at some point in time, you are better off buying the tractor w/ loader, rather than adding it to a tractor you already own. The reason I feel this way, is that used loaders arn't that easy to find, and new ones run around $5,000. It's cheeper to spend the extra $1,500 now. As far as utility goes, as mentioned, a loader is the most usefull attachment you can have.
Best of luck on your hunt, Bill