TD Series

[msmith]

I have been looking at good used tractors lately. I almost picked up a TN75A with only 330 hours on it for a decent price I thought. The seller backed out at the last minute. Other than that, it seems that with the difference in financing, and warranty, it is almost better to go with a new tractor than with a 2 or 3 year old used one.

With that said, I have had my eye on an open station, standard shift shuttle T4030. After much debate (which I am still doing) it seems that for not much more, I could have a TD5030 cab tractor.

Here are my questions, concerns, and perceptions; Although the TD series are "economy" tractors, they cost almost as much as the T4000 series and in size comparison, the TD series are real brutes. This leads me to believe that they are not economy compared to the T4000 series, but to the T5000 series and if you compare them as such, then they certainly are "cost effective" or "price point" tractors. Am I off base here? Overall, they do seem to be a solid piece of equipment although I don't care for the added bars, lights, and mirrors.

So, for those that have experience, am I close here? What is the general perception of these tractors? Another concern that I have is, since there is no "buddy seat" is there a place for a 13 year old to sit, like on the inner fender, to ride and learn? (It's been a while since I have seen one) He has already said "Dad, if you get a cab tractor, where will I ride?" If there isn't any way to tote him around, or for me to ride and instruct while he does some work, then it's back to an open station for sure.

Thanks in advance,

Mike

 

[LaneFarms]

I have a 2wd TD 5050 with a cab and loader. I have done everything from bale hay to pull a 4 bottom plow with it. The only problem I have had is several bent drag links that the dealership believes they have fixed now. There is a small area for someone to sit. Although we have all done it for a childs safety get the cab. Its the same reason I have mine.

 

[msmith]

Thanks for the info! When you say drag link, I am assuming you mean on the front end.

I wish they made it more convenient for two people to be on a tractor. I spent a lot of "fender time" with my uncle, and seat time with him on the fender before I solo'ed mowing hay or brush hogging. You need that as you just can't show a teenager the controls and turn them loose, especially in tight quarters or on a hillside.

I take it that other than the drag link, you are pretty happy with the TD? Another thing that I am wondering about is the TD series sits a little higher than the T4000 series. This might feel squirrely to me on a hillside and be a little inconvenient in the woods, but I do like the fact that they are 1000 pounds heavier.

 

[LaneFarms]

I am on flat ground but I have no stability problems with mine. I load round rolls 2 at the time on the FEL and haven't picked the rear tires up yet. The drag link on the 2wd models is too light for loader work. After the second one being bent like a pretzel my local dealership put a piece of cold roll inside the drag link to strengthen it up.