TC21d VS TC25d

[Steelfan]

Hi, I've been shopping for a compact tractor for about 3 months. I've gone to about every dealer in the area. I've decided that I'd like to buy a New Holland. Trying to decide on Model is now my concern. I mow over 3 acres of grass at my house, and about 1 acre at my parents. Both properties have banks. I now use a 18hp Sears Craftsman, and a 16hp Wheelhorse. Neither tractor is Hydro, and is something I've never had. I'd also like to use the tractor for landscaping, and small duty jobs(such as tree removal, and gardening). I'd very much like to have a loader. The prices I got on the NH TC21d, and TC25d are about $2800.00 apart. The 21 being $13,400, and the 25 being $16,200. Both have 60 mid mount mowers. The 25d has supersteer which I think is necessary for mowing with the bigger tractor. I'd love to hear anyone's thoughts to help me make my decision. I've also found a TC21d with a 60" mid mount mower, and a loader for $14,500. The tractor is used but is in new condition, may have been a demo. Thanks in advance for the help.

 

[John_Mc]

Steelfan -

I've got a TC33D, which is the same frame size as the TC25, just a bigger engine. I use it with a rear mount mower (Woods BB60 brush mower). I mow some meadows with a few trees, and also have opened up some winding trails through the woods with the brush mower and a box blade. I've not found any need for supersteer on the unit, and am glad I didn't pay the extra for it. On the other hand, I'm not particularly pick about having that "manicured" look to my lawn. Further, I've got an old 20HP Craftsman mower with a 50" deck that I'll probably use around the house for finish mowing (once the house is built).

If you've got a lot of tight manuevering to do when you mow, you might want supersteer, but have you considered just hanging on to one of your other mowers for the close-in trim work? You could then put the money you would have spent on Supersteer into other toys... er... attachments.

For the landscaping and tree removal you may lean toward the larger unit, but the smaller, lighter unit will be easier on your lawn in wet or soft conditions. You'll like the hydrostatic transmission is you do much loader work. It's also nice mowing around obstacles.

NOTE: heard a rumor that the TC25/25D was going to be discontinued and replaced with something smaller (TC21 frame, but larger engine). Parts wise, the 25 should not be a problem, since the engine is identical to the TC29, just turned up the fuel pump a bit on the 29.

 

[jinman]

Steelfan, from your description, I'd say the TC-21 would handle your job just fine. I'd seriously look at that used unit with the mower and loader. You didn't say how many hours, but that really seems to be a good deal. My advice is to do whatever you have to do to get a hydrostatic tranny. Continuously variable ground speed is addictive as well as instant direction reversal. Sounds to me like there is a lot of value in that used machine.

JimI

 

[MikePA]

I have a TC25D with the FEL and 60" mmm with no supersteer and I can maneuver in my yard just fine. I also vote for the used 21D.

 

[Steelfan]

Thanks to MikePa, jinman, and John Mc. I just found the TC21d, that I was talking about. I didn't get to call the dealer yet. Plan to do it tomorrow. In the ad the hours aren't given. Was also wondering if there is a chance of haggling? The size factor is important to me due to lawn. There are some pretty open areas, and some tight ones. I was planning to keep at least one of the garden tractors, maybe both. They are older tractor, and value is an issue. I've took very good care of them, but age is against them. Thanks again Guys.

 

[John_Mc]

One thing to double check when you look at the used TC21D: make sure it is, in fact, a TC21D and not just a plain TC21. The 21D has a live PTO which you want for mowing. The plain 21 does not.

 

[lblair]

I have the TC21D. With 60" MMM and 48" king kutter brush cutter and 50" FEL. I mow 4 plus achers lawn. It has plenty of power for loader work and the brush cutter. I went the TC21D for size of the machine for the most part. The TC25D would not fit in my garge with the ROP's down where the TC21D will. It is a fantastic machine all the way around. I have cleard over 1 acher of brush and 1-2" samplings with the KK brush cutter. It has all been fantastic so far. Just rolled 130 hrs so far.

 

[Steelfan]

Thanks for Everyone, who is trying to help me with my decision. I got some info on the used TC21d with the loader, and 60" MMM. It was used by a farmer to run a grain elevator on the rear PTO. Its got 600 hrs on it and is a 2000 model. I've attached a picture if anyone wants to see it. Is that kind of use harder on a tractor, and is it still a good buy???? Also a question on the R-4 tires, does anyone have them, and do they dig up the yard when mowing???? Thanks again Guys!!!!

 

[MikePA]

I have the R4s. If you turn sharp enough and the ground is soft (after a rain) they will leave marks, which disappear after a few days. If you're going fast enough they'd probably dig up the yard.

The dealer building in the background looks familiar. Who is it?

 

[Steelfan]

MIkePa Its Charles Snyder in Tamaqua,Pa. I figured you may be familar with them!!!