Well, I struck a deal with the owner of the TC18. I drove it around in the snow today, that's right...SNOW, and shifted every lever, raised, lowered, 4wd, 2wd, high, low, pto, everything on it! The thing strated right up after sitting for weeks outdoors with it being 20 deg F outside right now. One little puff of black smoke and then purred like a kitten. I was worried about not having power steering.... no problem with the TC18. I could spin the wheel with one finger while moving slowly (no weight on the front end) and almost as easy with sitting still. Everything operated as smooth as could be, just like new I would imagine. I believe this tractor has been very well maintained. Now for the deal:
2001 NH TC18 4wd w/Hydro, cruise control and rear hydraulics
John Deere 60'' rear finish mower (good condition)
Howard 48'' tiller (good condition)
Rear tire chains
For a grand total of $7000. From what I have learned from you people, Muhammad's book, and local NH dealer I got a heck of a deal. I gave him $100 to hold it for a couple weeks while I gather the money. I haven't been this excited since I bought my brand new Triumph motorcycle a couple years ago. By the way, anyone want to buy a slightly used Trimph motorcycle...lol. A sincere thank you to all people involved with this web site. Now if I can only get that loader fitted before this snow melts.
Dave