New TC30 or Used TC40D?

[Bluen]

I am trying to make some tough decisions - new versus used, hp, cost, etc. - about which tractor I should purchase. I've been doing some research (especially posts on TBN which have been very helpful) and have visited five dealers (blue, green and orange variaties). We have 16 acres, mostly pasture (some in rough shape) on hilly terrain. Need to brushhog, finish mow, plow and move snow from a long dirt driveway, and do horse chores. I'm leaning towards a new TC30 (9x3) with a FEL and a 60 inch finish mower (I already have a 60 inch rotary cutter). But, one dealer has a 2 yr. old TC40D with and FEL with 200 hrs for about $4000 more. Interest rate is higher for the used tractor and I'm not sure about the warrently. I like the idea of a bigger tractor but the cost, especially going new, seems hard to justify. My father, a retired diesel mechanic, feels 4 cylinders would have a longer life versus 3 but suggested getting goats after hearing the prices... I'd appreciate hearing your opinions!

 

[markie61]

I bought a used TC40D and love it!
I looked at the TC30 and the 40D is SO much more tractor.
Bumper-to-bumper warranty = 2 years
powertrain warranty = 3 years

Someone else already took the depreciation hit, so you shouldnt lose too much value. You will take the resale value hit on new.

For your reference, I bought 2002 TC40D with 31 hours, 16LA loader, Quick-tach HD bucket&toothbar, pallet forks, full service manuals, full set of filters, and 50hour service completed = $20K+tax.
Added used 6ft box scaper, 3pt fin mower, plug aeroater for $1200more.

Good luck,
Mark

 

[thcri]

Bluen,

I kind of agree with Markie. The 40 horsepower would be much nice for you based on the amount of land you have. The TC40 is a larger tractor and will handle your rough terrain better. The new TC30 is a tractor that New Holland built to compete with other markets. $4000.00 is a big difference but 200hours on it would not scare me at all. Maybe check with the dealer as to why the previous owner got rid of it. Tell your dealer your not so sure on the used TC40D and see what kind of price he would give you on a new one and then compare then two prices. Comparing the 30 with the 40 is like comparing apples and oranges.

I guess what I am saying is I think the 30 might be some small for what you want to do with it, it can be done but will take much longer to do.
murph

 

[Soundguy]

Not apples to apples.. but I'll tell you my story anyway.

I went to get a new tc18 at the local NH dealer.. once ther I saw a used 1920 for about 700 more than the tc18. ( The 1920 will be closer to the tc 40 than the tc 30... is 4cyl, etc. )

4 grand seems like a big difference though, and the 30 should be sufficient for your acreage... it should pull a 5' cutter I would think., fine.

Soundguy

 

[jinman]

Bluen, just saying $4,000 more than the TC30 doesn't give us much to work with as the total price for the TC40D. Can you be specific as to the price quoted on that tractor? On the surface it looks like the TC40D is a much better deal and it's far more tractor than the TC30. However, I'd expect the TC40D to be around $18,500 or less. Is that close?

 

[Bluen]

First, thanks for all the input! Your experience and insight is very helpful. The final price for the used TC40D isn't yet negociated, partly as a finish mower will likely be part of the deal, but your estimate for the tractor with the FEL is very much in the ballpark. I did find out that the factory warrenty is expired and that the tractor was traded by a business that trades every two years. I haven't gotten a quote yet for a new TC40 or TC40D yet as I had previously pretty much decided on the TC30. I've test driven both the TC30 and the used TC40D - both are very impressive machines. I should mention that I owned a very used B414 IH which turned out to be a very poor investment (and is not worth repairing). So, I admit to being uncomfortable buying used again but realize the situation is not really comparable. One thing for sure, either tractor will be orders of magnitude safer than the old B414. And, the test driving experience was simply awesome - I can't believe the smooth response and turning capability not to mention I wasn't covered in oil.