Thoughts on a TC33D

[motownbrowne]

Hey Motown......yeah, probably don't "need" a backhoe, but I've got some projects that could use it and seemed to be an overall more useable package. Not completely set on that. Regarding what I need a tractor for......mostly log skidding and clearing work as I prepare to build a house. After that, maintaining a driveway and snow removal and general maintenance of 35 wooded acres.

If you don't need the hoe, don't buy one. They're very expensive! If I was you, I'd spend the money either on a bigger tractor with a more capable loader, or perhaps a cabbed version of what you're looking at. Or, buy one of the machines you're looking at, and spend the hoe money on a nice used UTV.

Some folks really put their backhoes to good use, but I'd want to be darned sure I needed one before dropping the coin.

 

[motownbrowne]

Also, that offer for the PDF manual applies to anyone else who wants one. Send me a PM for details.

 

[ptwat]

I have had a TC33D with a FEL for 16 yrs and just love it. If I had a backhoe I would have probably used it quite a bit but have not missed one either since as recommended above you can always rent a trackhoe or something. There have been few problems such as the steering wheel lock decided to quit working at one point but after fixing it I have not had any problems with it again. Mine does not have the SS and I have not missed that either even though I thought I would early on. The only time I have been tempted by another tractor type is with the John Deere quick hitch (or whatever they call it) equipment. For me it is a pain to change implements but that is just me. I had an old Kubota with manual transmission before that and was always worn out at the end of the day. The HST on the NH cured all that and made life great again. All in all it is a great little tractor and has been very dependable.

 

[Tompet]

I'm looking for another tractor and looked at a few tc33's along with Massey 1533/40. All of the tc33's were hydro which on this tractor search I prefer a shuttle shift. They are nicely featured tractors and comfortable. Does anyone know if any tc33's were built with a shuttle shift or was choice only hydro or gear?

Also to the op, I initially bought a scut with BH because I wanted one and ended up trading in for larger tractor primarily for larger BH. You have 35 acres, you will not be sorry purchasing a tractor with BH. Especially in your situation as outlined. As far as renting a mini ex, sounds ok, but it won't be available when you need it to quickly handle a job, rental fees, transport, etc.

A couple months ago my neighbor brought over a mini ex for me to try out and I told him thanks, but it has less power than my tractor backhoe. I told him I needed something larger with a heated cab. Well, a week later he brought over a Bobcat E45 excavator with heated cab...now that was pretty cool....neighbor and equipment.

 

[k0ua]

I'm looking for another tractor and looked at a few tc33's along with Massey 1533/40. All of the tc33's were hydro which on this tractor search I prefer a shuttle shift. They are nicely featured tractors and comfortable. Does anyone know if any tc33's were built with a shuttle shift or was choice only hydro or gear?

Also to the op, I initially bought a scut with BH because I wanted one and ended up trading in for larger tractor primarily for larger BH. You have 35 acres, you will not be sorry purchasing a tractor with BH. Especially in your situation as outlined. As far as renting a mini ex, sounds ok, but it won't be available when you need it to quickly handle a job, rental fees, transport, etc.

A couple months ago my neighbor brought over a mini ex for me to try out and I told him thanks, but it has less power than my tractor backhoe. I told him I needed something larger with a heated cab. Well, a week later he brought over a Bobcat E45 excavator with heated cab...now that was pretty cool....neighbor and equipment.

9x3 gear or hydro. No shuttle

 

[direwolf]

Do you needa backhoe? They are very expensive, and unless you have a continuing need for one in the years to come, it may be cheaper to rent a mini-ex. Just a thought.

Regarding the TC, they were made by shibaura in Japan, and are a very nice machine. I own a TC29D, and am very happy with it, although I've only had it since December. As far as I know, yes, all of the D models are hydrostatic. These models of tractors are the more deluxe models from New Holland in that generation. They have cruise control, a swivel seat, telescoping 3 point arms (super nice), a tilting and telescoping steering wheel, etc. It's not a big deal, but these features a pretty nice. Also, if you buy the NH, I'll PM you details on where to get a service manual in PDF form for free.

One thing I really like about my NH compared to my Kubota is that it's got about 18 grease zerks on it instead of about 3 on the Kubota. I just like that all of the linkages can be greased instead of relying on a spray lubricant.

That said, however, we don't know what you're trying to do with the tractor. Personally, if I had to keep only one of my two tractors, it'd be the larger Kubota. It's just quite a bit more capable. Also, my NH doesn't have a loader, but even hypothetically speaking, if it did have a loader, it'd still be the one the go. I can skid bigger logs and lift more on the pallet forks than the New Holland could ever dream of. Depending on the tasks you wish to achieve, the tractors you're looking at might make more sense, though.

Good luck tractor shopping!!

Hi MotownBrowne. I have a 2000 model TC33D. It's been a great tractor but is beginning to need minor repairs. Would you send me the information where can I obtain a service manual? Thank you.