new to forum, plus I have limited experience with tractors....

ldman · Jan 27, 2014

Hello all,
I have 80 acres mostly in timber. I also own a small manual sawmill that I have been using to cut timber off my land. I plan to build a new shop that will also be storage for lumber I cut, and new sheds for equipment with the lumber from my place. Once I get my new shops and sheds built, I will start to cut lumber for others and sell lumber from the trees off my place. I own an old 3055 ford tractor. It doesn't have hydraulics for a front end loader. So, I'm wanting a new or used tractor with a front end loader. I'll need something that can handle large logs to load on my manual sawmill. Plus I plan on clearing land as I cut timber off my place. So i'll need something big enough to clean up logging ect...
I have looked at a lot of tractors. But my limited knowledge has me confused as to what I may actually need. My 3055 is basically an old ford 4000 with a 3000 front end. There's no place to put front weights on my old ford.... so I often run into not being able to load heavy hardwood logs onto my sawmill.. for the front of my old ford comes off the ground when trying to pick up heavy 16' logs with the forks on the back of my tractor.

What I want is a tractor with a front end loader. It needs to be able to handle heavy logs with either a pallet fork on the front or forks on the back to be able to load them on my sawmill. Plus it needs to be able to pick up heavy stacks of cut lumber to be moved to drying sheds.

research has told me that I'm better off with a 4x4. They run about $5k higher than a 2wd. Do I really need a 4wd? Older tractors such as my 3055 are heavier than most newer tractors. Having fluid put in the tires of newer tractors can offset the weight difference.

I have looked at many tractors. The one I have found that seems to me to be what "May" be best for me is the Mahindra 5530 4wd. It has a much higher lift capacity than any others in it's range.( I'm thinking loading logs ect..)...

Any input is very much appreciated. I have even considered a backhoe/loader since I have a tractor...

What do you guys think I may need???

thanks,

Dave

murphy1244 · Jan 27, 2014

What dealers are within 50 miles of you.? What is the weight yo want to lift?

ldman · Jan 27, 2014

Small town mississippi.... Local dealer is ford, John deere, Kubota. Mahindra dealer 65 miles away.

ldman said:
Hello all,
I have 80 acres mostly in timber. I also own a small manual sawmill that I have been using to cut timber off my land. I plan to build a new shop that will also be storage for lumber I cut, and new sheds for equipment with the lumber from my place. Once I get my new shops and sheds built, I will start to cut lumber for others and sell lumber from the trees off my place. I own an old 3055 ford tractor. It doesn't have hydraulics for a front end loader. So, I'm wanting a new or used tractor with a front end loader. I'll need something that can handle large logs to load on my manual sawmill. Plus I plan on clearing land as I cut timber off my place. So i'll need something big enough to clean up logging ect...
I have looked at a lot of tractors. But my limited knowledge has me confused as to what I may actually need. My 3055 is basically an old ford 4000 with a 3000 front end. There's no place to put front weights on my old ford.... so I often run into not being able to load heavy hardwood logs onto my sawmill.. for the front of my old ford comes off the ground when trying to pick up heavy 16' logs with the forks on the back of my tractor.

What I want is a tractor with a front end loader. It needs to be able to handle heavy logs with either a pallet fork on the front or forks on the back to be able to load them on my sawmill. Plus it needs to be able to pick up heavy stacks of cut lumber to be moved to drying sheds.

research has told me that I'm better off with a 4x4. They run about $5k higher than a 2wd. Do I really need a 4wd? Older tractors such as my 3055 are heavier than most newer tractors. Having fluid put in the tires of newer tractors can offset the weight difference.

I have looked at many tractors. The one I have found that seems to me to be what "May" be best for me is the Mahindra 5530 4wd. It has a much higher lift capacity than any others in it's range.( I'm thinking loading logs ect..)...

Any input is very much appreciated. I have even considered a backhoe/loader since I have a tractor...

What do you guys think I may need???

thanks,

Dave

ldman · Jan 27, 2014

ldman said:
Small town mississippi.... Local dealer is ford, John deere, Kubota. Mahindra dealer 65 miles away.

Murphy, as far as the weight, I'm not really sure. I do know that if my 3055 had weights on the front of the tractor, it's possible I may be able to lift what I need.

Edit.... I calculated oak logs 12 ft long with 24" diameter... Around 2800lbs max.

newbury · Jan 27, 2014

ldman said:
Hello all,
I have 80 acres mostly in timber. I also own a small manual sawmill that I have been using to cut timber off my land. I plan to build a new shop that will also be storage for lumber I cut, and new sheds for equipment with the lumber from my place. Once I get my new shops and sheds built, I will start to cut lumber for others and sell lumber from the trees off my place. I own an old 3055 ford tractor. It doesn't have hydraulics for a front end loader. So, I'm wanting a new or used tractor with a front end loader. I'll need something that can handle large logs to load on my manual sawmill. Plus I plan on clearing land as I cut timber off my place. So i'll need something big enough to clean up logging ect...
I have looked at a lot of tractors. But my limited knowledge has me confused as to what I may actually need. My 3055 is basically an old ford 4000 with a 3000 front end. There's no place to put front weights on my old ford.... so I often run into not being able to load heavy hardwood logs onto my sawmill.. for the front of my old ford comes off the ground when trying to pick up heavy 16' logs with the forks on the back of my tractor.

What I want is a tractor with a front end loader. It needs to be able to handle heavy logs with either a pallet fork on the front or forks on the back to be able to load them on my sawmill. Plus it needs to be able to pick up heavy stacks of cut lumber to be moved to drying sheds.

research has told me that I'm better off with a 4x4. They run about $5k higher than a 2wd. Do I really need a 4wd? Older tractors such as my 3055 are heavier than most newer tractors. Having fluid put in the tires of newer tractors can offset the weight difference.

I have looked at many tractors. The one I have found that seems to me to be what "May" be best for me is the Mahindra 5530 4wd. It has a much higher lift capacity than any others in it's range.( I'm thinking loading logs ect..)...

Any input is very much appreciated. I have even considered a backhoe/loader since I have a tractor...

What do you guys think I may need???

thanks,

Dave

The first thing you need is a dose of reality if your planning on starting a lumber business..

The lumber market is DEPRESSED.
I'm in Fulton (northern Mississippi). I've got about 300 acres of timberland, a lot in mixed hardwood just getting to an age where I can do a thinning for pulp. Back in 2005 we were getting about $3K/acre for good stands of 30+ year old pine sawtimber. We are presently trying to get $2K/acre for a stand of 35yr old pine in Leeksville.

Back in 2005 pine sawtimber was bringing about $50/ton prices/reports/2005/3.pdf now it brings about $28/ton prices/reports/2013/2.pdf.

There are a LOT of loggers trying to pay for equipment they bought in 2005 to 2008. Log trucks around here seem to be mostly rolling to chip plants with the chips being sent overseas. Every time since 2010 that market prices have "blipped" up they go back down QUICK. Trees grow slowly and you can put off cutting for years.

So back to your 80 acres (and 2 mules?).

I've got 2 tractors, my CUT is a Kubota M4700 (~50HP, FEL lifts a ton, 3pt 2 ton) which is probably the size of what you need. My SCUT is a B7610 (23HP, FEL lifts about 700 lb, 3pt about 1300). My sawmill is a Woodmizer LT10. I cut lumber because I need trees cleared and shelving.

If $$ are tight look for a tractor that will carry your 16' log with the 3pt (about 3,000 lbs Timber and Lumber Calculators at WOODWEB )

Get 4WD.

Look at used.

My M4700 w/ ~1400 hrs cost me about $12K last year in January.

The chipper cost $1.7K new.

Good luck and where in Mississippi?

ldman · Jan 27, 2014

newbury, I'm not in the market to wholesale any lumber or timber at the present time. Thanks for your reply, for you answered a few questions I had. I just want a new tractor that can do what my current old one is unable to do. I want to build a new shop and a couple more buildings. The only logging of timber on my place that will be done is for personal use only for the time being. Once I have my sawmill building up and plenty of storage space, I plan to cut lumber on my mill for locals. I have done few jobs already with my mill... one was a man that wanted some large cedar trees milled, yet he didn't want to pay the local mill yard $75 hour to cut them... I cut them on the halves for him. I got half the lumber. Fine with me, for he had some HUGE cedar trees that produced some nice lumber. Other than that, I've strictly cut for myself. I have very little experience sawmilling. I would however like to get into specialty lumber cutting in the future.

Dave

newbury said:
The first thing you need is a dose of reality if your planning on starting a lumber business..

The lumber market is DEPRESSED.
I'm in Fulton (northern Mississippi). I've got about 300 acres of timberland, a lot in mixed hardwood just getting to an age where I can do a thinning for pulp. Back in 2005 we were getting about $3K/acre for good stands of 30+ year old pine sawtimber. We are presently trying to get $2K/acre for a stand of 35yr old pine in Leeksville.

Back in 2005 pine sawtimber was bringing about $50/ton prices/reports/2005/3.pdf now it brings about $28/ton prices/reports/2013/2.pdf.

There are a LOT of loggers trying to pay for equipment they bought in 2005 to 2008. Log trucks around here seem to be mostly rolling to chip plants with the chips being sent overseas. Every time since 2010 that market prices have "blipped" up they go back down QUICK. Trees grow slowly and you can put off cutting for years.

So back to your 80 acres (and 2 mules?).

I've got 2 tractors, my CUT is a Kubota M4700 (~50HP, FEL lifts a ton, 3pt 2 ton) which is probably the size of what you need. My SCUT is a B7610 (23HP, FEL lifts about 700 lb, 3pt about 1300). My sawmill is a Woodmizer LT10. I cut lumber because I need trees cleared and shelving.

If $$ are tight look for a tractor that will carry your 16' log with the 3pt (about 3,000 lbs Timber and Lumber Calculators at WOODWEB )

Get 4WD.

Look at used.

My M4700 w/ ~1400 hrs cost me about $12K last year in January.

View attachment 357371

The chipper cost $1.7K new.

Good luck and where in Mississippi?

murphy1244 · Jan 27, 2014

I say look at 50 hp with a FEL capable of lifting 3000 lbs +.

dbaer78 · Jan 27, 2014

For a logging tractor the 5530 would be a good choice in my opinion...simple with brute strength. I looked into them myself when I was buying. You might also look into the Workmaster series by new holland....also simple and strong.If I had more land and was looking into purchasing a bigger tractor today for logging work I really like the 5e series deere with power shuttle. Pretty good bang for the buck. Power shuttle transmission sure makes log jockeying with the loader much easier.

GManBart · Jan 28, 2014

For 2,800lb logs, you'll need an FEL that can handle more like 3,500lbs at the pins (since the weight is farther forward than the pins, which lowers lifting capacity). Very few compact tractors get into that range, so you're probably looking more at Utility class tractors. FWD will definitely help with FEL work when you have that much weight out front, and you're probably going to need a decent size 3pt counterweight.

For what you're doing, it sounds like a true backhoe would do a better job...way more lifting capacity, and a lot more capable for digging stumps etc, and you can use your current tractor for stuff like brush hogging, etc.

Gary Fowler · Jan 28, 2014

You can get an older model Case 580 backhoe in good shape for 10-12000 bucks. It will handle much more weight than any CUT or Utility tractor. Not too many 4 wd models setting around but I have seen a few and they may be a bit higher than the 2 wd. The contractor whole built my house bought a fairly good 2 WD one for $8K. It is a little sloppy at the pins but good engine and transmission. Lots of them available due to construction slump in most areas. Check out Craigslist.
As for your current tractor, all the ones I remember had 4 bolt holes in the front casting that is just below the radiator. This is where you bolt on the weight bracket. Every tractor above a SCUT that I have ever seen has front weight capability. It may not have the weight bracket on it but I would bet the holes are there.

ldman · Jan 29, 2014

I'm seriously considering a backhoe over a new tractor. I have land I plan to clear and the backhoe would come in handy to remove stumps and tree debree ect... I don't know much about them though. I'll have to do some research and ask questions on what to look for in buying a used backhoe... If any of you know what to look for in buying a used backhoe, I would be grateful for your input and wisdom. I see they have a few around here at some auctions ect...

Thanks
David

GManBart said:
For 2,800lb logs, you'll need an FEL that can handle more like 3,500lbs at the pins (since the weight is farther forward than the pins, which lowers lifting capacity). Very few compact tractors get into that range, so you're probably looking more at Utility class tractors. FWD will definitely help with FEL work when you have that much weight out front, and you're probably going to need a decent size 3pt counterweight.

For what you're doing, it sounds like a true backhoe would do a better job...way more lifting capacity, and a lot more capable for digging stumps etc, and you can use your current tractor for stuff like brush hogging, etc.

Gary Fowler · Jan 29, 2014

I really don't care much for auctions as it seems what goes to auction is things that cant sell any where else. Some folks can ferret out a good deal now and then, but by and large the are for experts that know what they are looking at so they don't get ripped off.
Try Craigslist, local equipment dealers and even rental yards for your back hoe. You will be able to get on them operate them and check for leaks, loose pins etc. You likely wont find a used 580 back hoe less than $20K that doesn't have some wear in the pins. Slight looseness at the joints isn't that big a deal as long as it isn't excessive and nothing is broken or has cracks in the boom or other parts. Swing cylinders are notorious for leaking so check those closely along with all other hydraulic lines. You need a buddy to go with you to look for leaks etc while you operate or vice versa, two sets of eyes are always better than one. Check the transmission to make sure it shifts easily, pulls without slipping etc. Check it out in all ranges to make sure every gear works.

CobyRupert · Jan 29, 2014

dbaer78 said:
For a logging tractor the 5530 would be a good choice in my opinion...simple with brute strength. I looked into them myself when I was buying. You might also look into the Workmaster series by new holland....also simple and strong.If I had more land and was looking into purchasing a bigger tractor today for logging work I really like the 5e series deere with power shuttle. Pretty good bang for the buck. Power shuttle transmission sure makes log jockeying with the loader much easier.

Agree.

flusher · Jan 29, 2014

My 2008 Mahindra 5525 is a simple, rugged, heavy tractor (55 hp engine, 45 hp pto, 2WD, partially synchromeshed tranny 8F/2R, power steering, triple rear hydraulic remotes) with the ML250 FEL (6-ft wide bucket, 2950 lb lift at the pins to 10.5 ft height, skid steer quick attach option), weighs about 7000 lb with the FEL and loaded rear tires. Cost new: ~$19K. It compares to that 5530 you mentioned.

Good luck.

ldman · Jan 30, 2014

flusher said:
My 2008 Mahindra 5525 is a simple, rugged, heavy tractor (55 hp engine, 45 hp pto, 2WD, partially synchromeshed tranny 8F/2R, power steering, triple rear hydraulic remotes) with the ML250 FEL (6-ft wide bucket, 2950 lb lift at the pins to 10.5 ft height, skid steer quick attach option), weighs about 7000 lb with the FEL and loaded rear tires. Cost new: ~$19K. It compares to that 5530 you mentioned.

Good luck.

I'm really in between which way I should go... Backhoe vs tractor with FEL(maybe backhoe attachment)..... Buying the Mahindra 5530 with FEL and backhoe attachment new would give me a solid machine I could depend on. Buying a used backhoe could be a money pit to keep working. But, for the money the Mahindra with FEL and backhoe attachment would cost, I could maybe get a decent used backhoe and also a newer used tractor to replace my old ford that is weak and old.
Buying used equipment is a shot in the dark when you don't know much about them, which is my case. If I knew I could find a decent used backhoe I think I would go that route.. But I know nothing about them. Buying a used tractor is no problem, for I know enough about them.
I'm leaning towards getting the 5530 with FEL and possibly a backhoe attachment to go with it... I'll keep digging for info and contemplating on it until I'm blue in the face I guess....

deerseeker001 · Jan 30, 2014

Welcome from Wisconsin

terryknight · Jan 31, 2014

dbaer78 said:
For a logging tractor the 5530 would be a good choice in my opinion...simple with brute strength. I looked into them myself when I was buying. You might also look into the Workmaster series by new holland....also simple and strong.If I had more land and was looking into purchasing a bigger tractor today for logging work I really like the 5e series deere with power shuttle. Pretty good bang for the buck. Power shuttle transmission sure makes log jockeying with the loader much easier.

i'm right there with you. looked at the workmaster and bought a 5055e. also looked at the mahindra 5530. the JD is been a great tractor. using forks i picked up a 30" by 8.5' oak log. it was the max i would pick up.

dad has a used case 580 E. got it for $6500 several years ago. it has been great. but the hydraulics can be expensive to repair. he has spent about 1500 in the past 5 years resealing some cylinders and replacing some hoses/fittings. the backhoe will not do s well in the woods as a smaller tractor, but you might not want to take a new tractor into the woods either

Xfaxman · Feb 1, 2014

ldman said:
Hello all,
I have 80 acres mostly in timber. I also own a small manual sawmill that I have been using to cut timber off my land. I plan to build a new shop that will also be storage for lumber I cut, and new sheds for equipment with the lumber from my place.---------------------------------------------------------
What I want is a tractor with a front end loader. It needs to be able to handle heavy logs with either a pallet fork on the front or forks on the back to be able to load them on my sawmill. Plus it needs to be able to pick up heavy stacks of cut lumber to be moved to drying sheds.

research has told me that I'm better off with a 4x4. They run about $5k higher than a 2wd. Do I really need a 4wd? Yes ----
-----------------------------------
Any input is very much appreciated. I have even considered a backhoe/loader since I have a tractor...

What do you guys think I may need??? Something better than a tractor, a compact Telehandler! :thumbsup:

thanks,

Dave

I also have 80 acres, lots of trees, mostly too many Cedars. Most guys on TBN say they didn't know about my V417, so I will post again.

It is 6' wide, 6.5' high and 13' long. 4 wheel drive, 4 wheel steer, 2 wheel steer and crab steer. Tire size is 14x17.5. Top speed is 15.5 mph, drawbar pull is 7,000 pounds and it will lift over 5,000 pounds. Has a SSQA and Aux Hydraulics on the boom.