ZJ_HR,
Think so?
Lets look at the facts.
For comparison look at similar sized Argon (which is what you appear to have from your bio) and NH test results:
Here is the data on the Argon 60 which is 57 pto hp.
http://tractortestlab.unl.edu/Misc-tests/Argon%2050.pdf
Here is a similar sized NH a TN65D which is a little smaller at 53 pto hp.
http://tractortestlab.unl.edu/NewH/65d.PDF
The NH is almost 500 lbs heavier.
Max drawbar pull is 1990 lbs more for the NH
Now lets look at the TN70D.
Its max draw bar pull is 7375 lbs and the Argon 60 is 4795 lbs.
http://tractortestlab.unl.edu/NewH/NHtn70D.PDF
and they are rated at the same pto hp.....
Its not even close. You can't beat new holland on the power and perfromance. If anything they are more powerful than NH claims. Note that NH says a Tn70D creates 57 pto hp:
http://www.newholland.com/FILES/tbl_s25SeriesText/PDFUpload290/1752/TNA_specs.pdf
the test data shows its really 60 pto hp.
Mary,
The main difference between the TNA and the TN is looks. Inside the are similar. If you can find a good deal on a used TN you will have almost the same tractor at a lower price as a TNA.
TNS is a much bigger and heavier tractor. Look at the weights. The TNS class is far larger. For your property its overkill IMHO, and the cost is much higher.
Yes you can work on the dealer just like a car dealer. Get three written quotes via fax and play them off each other. Also it helps to go back many times and grind away at them.
Its probably better to sell your tractors out right and buy the new one just like cars.
I can't help you with the price much since mine is two years old. Maybe one of the other folks will chime in.
I will say that I would get the NH loader with the quick attach. This way you can swap forks, bale spike, buckets, etc.. in a minute or two.
I love my TN70D. But I wish somedays that I stepped up to the TN75D beacuse of the larger hydro pump. For some tasks, like a post hole digger the extra few gpm would be handy. Otherwise I am content. I have 90 acres and the TN is just right in size for me.
Fred