Buying Advice Process in buying your first tractor

SDAnnette · Aug 15, 2019

I found this case d45 on craigslist in my area. Would you guys kindly give your 2 cents? I appreciated the feedback on the Kubota and the info from Jstpssng about backhoe vs auger. Is this link visible?

Case D45 4X4 Front Loader, Auger, Pallet Forks, Road Scraper, Low Hr. - heavy equipment - by owner - sale

I can re-type and cut and paste, but there are a few pictures and more details.

thank you,
Annette

oosik · Aug 15, 2019

I would consider the Case D45 about the right size tractor to start projects on your new property. Not too big, not too small.

A "list" of your projects will help you decide what tractor to buy and what implements will be needed first.

Start the list with those projects that must be done first and are most important to getting the driveway, house & yard completed.

Unless you have plans for lots of digging - forget the backhoe. It's a very expensive addition. The first three years we planted 250 trees. All holes were dug with a hand shovel - no problems there.

Filled rear tires will increase stability - both perceived and actual. Have some type of anti-corrosive ingredient added to the water. Rust can be a real bugger.

Regarding the dealer -
Have the sales person introduce you to the service manager and the service manager show you around his area
Is it a mess or neat, clean and well arranged. It's very similar to looking at the kitchen area in a large restaurant.
Should you need service - how will the tractor be brought back to the dealer. Do you have a trailer that can handle the job or will you rely on the dealer. How much will he charge to pick up and bring back.

Will this particular dealer be able to get supplies( oil & filters ) & parts for this tractor.

If you have the inclination - it's time to learn how to do basic service on any tractor you might buy also. Grease all the zerks at specified intervals. Do the periodic engine oil/hydraulic oil/filter changes at specified intervals. The Owner's Manual will cover all these tasks.

Remember - buying a new tractor is not just a new addition to the family. It's a change in life style that must be accommodated to be a happy union.

nards444 · Aug 15, 2019

chim said:
The title made me think of the strategy I should have employed when shopping for the first tractor in 1989. Buy your 5th tractor first!

yeah I bought a B2650 last month, I think more me its the tractor that i probably would have needed 2nd or 3rd. Dont ever see needing anything more on flat 4 acres of grass and the 2650 can run just about any implement that i would ever buy or rent. A run of the mill larger garden type tractor with loader and such probably would have done the job but most likely would not have been happy, realistically a sub compact probably would have done everything i ever needed and then some. But the compact tractor kinds of ensures I will never buy again unless its due to old age.

Unless the backhoe came with package that made sense I would skip it, unless your somebody does regular digging. Brand new they are bout 7k, I cant rent an excavator for a week for 1000 or around 2-300 a day, lots of digging to make up for that cost and that tractor is going to be fairly inefficient to digging compared to an ex.

Granthol · Aug 15, 2019

The d45 is about right on size for you. It has an auger so holes are easy. With the loader and forks, you値l use them more than you think it looks like a decent deal. If one of the cutters is in the mix I壇 probably do it.

SDAnnette · Aug 16, 2019

I think it is a bit pricey at $24,500, but it does have many attachments. The hours are low, but it was only made for 5 years back in 2001-2006. If it is quality and with proper maintenance, I think that isn't an issue. I just want to make sure I can get my filters or a starter, when it does go. I am not a particular brand person, but out here in CA it seems like I see Deere or Kubota. I am going to go drive it on property on Monday. Any thoughts welcome. I am excited because it seems like a good fit, nice weight, and the attachments I want.

davrow · Aug 17, 2019

I think it would be a good fit for you.

Any idea why the Craigslist ad has been flagged for removal?

ovrszd · Aug 17, 2019

davrow said:
I think it would be a good fit for you.

Any idea why the Craigslist ad has been flagged for removal?

Maybe a scam?

kenmac · Aug 17, 2019

ovrszd said:
Maybe a scam?

:thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup:

SDAnnette · Aug 27, 2019

Sorry for the hiatus, but I chose to get the Case D45. Super nice guy selling the tractor. The ad on Craigslist had expired, and he said he held off relisting until we came and saw it. So far so good! We just got a Versatube shelter for it ordered, the sun out here can be merciless. I now have to learn how to use the rhino auger. I have been playing with it. Youtube here I come.

Thank you to all of you that weighed in(that was for you Jeff) on my selection.