Questions on TYM T474 operator platform

[aesanders]

I have been out checking out the TYM‘s lately and really like the T474 model. It’s size would be ideal for me and it seems to have the most bang for the buck of just about anything around. And they have some good deals on them right now.

However, the operator platform, especially feet room just seems small for the size of tractor it is. My little 2 series Deere 2320 has more footroom, and I can stretch my feet out a bit, and the foot controls are at a more stretched out angle allowing much easier operation. Was thinking of getting a shuttle shift and I had a hard time lifting my left leg up high enough to reach the clutch in the TYM. Now I am a rather large fellow in girth, not so much in height, so my belly is in the way with the short legroom of the TYM, so it maybe just an issue with fat guys. But I am not the only fat guy around that would consider this tractor. QUESTION: I did see in a YouTube video that there is an extra bolt pattern in the seat and you can move the whole seat back a couple inches. Has anyone done this? Does it make much difference? It’s almost a deal breaker as is, and I would have the dealer move it back to try before I made a decision, but wanted to run this by the smart folks here first.

Also, one other complaint on this tractor is the three point hitch control. It just comes across as cheesy. To small and almost hidden under the seat. No set adjustment either to stop it at say position three (and the numbering doesn’t follow the control lever anyway). Anyone have complaint or issues with this lever? It is one of the more important tractor controls and seems like an after thought on this model. Might not be an issue in actual use, but I don’t like it and if feels like cost cutting.

Any other things I should check out on this tractor for those that have it?

 

[CloverKnollFarms]

I liked the 494 platform a lot better. Or you could try the 4820?

 

[aesanders]

I liked the 494 platform a lot better. Or you could try the 4820?

I like these two platforms better also, just the physical size is slightly larger than I was hoping to get. have lots of tight areas on the property. The 4820 maybe the ticket though, as it is slightly more compact than the 494.

Still, like the 474 best if the seat move back opens up the operator station. I guess no one has done that?

 

[CloverKnollFarms]

Yes, the 4820 is a heavy weight, smaller footprint 494… but the 494 platform is like a family room

 

[stoyan79]

474 is a winner, 494/574 have some issues, the old Branson models (4820/5520) are proven and generally built heavier.

 

[Torvy]

474 is a winner, 494/574 have some issues, the old Branson models (4820/5520) are proven and generally built heavier.

The 494/574 don't have "issues". They are arguably the most tractor for the money right now. You will find anecdotal evidence of any model from any brand have problems, but there is no evidence at all of a fundamental problem with the 494/574. (They are also heavier than their Branson cousins).

 

[CloverKnollFarms]

I'll admit, the 494 has a larger frame... The 4820 is much more compact, and only weighs 40 pounds less. The operators weight will vary by more than 40lbs

 

[aesanders]

Does the 4820 cab model use the same controls as the 494? Kind of Frankenstein appearance. Was looking at the 15 series cab models, and they have the 474 Contols in the cab. Weird.

 

[K5lwq]

Does the 4820 cab model use the same controls as the 494? Kind of Frankenstein appearance. Was looking at the 15 series cab models, and they have the 474 Contols in the cab. Weird.

I am not sure what you do not like on the controls but they are similar to the 15 series. Maybe I am just use to mine but the controls do not bother me.

The 4820 has one feature that is very nice. It has 4 range gears and it is synchronized. Shifts very easily unlike the 15 series. I suggest test driving it though to make sure it works for you.

 

[aesanders]

In reply to K5lwq, I haven’t been in a 15 series cab, as i haven’t seen one at a dealer, so not sure how much is different. One thing that had me really disappointed looking at pics though was the location of the fuel tank. I love the location on the Rops model under the step. It is moved to the back just like the 474 on the cab model. Not sure if the pedal controls on the 15 series cab model are the same as the 474 though. They are tight for me in the 474, although have not been in one with the seat bolted in the far back position.