Buying Advice Tractor I need vs tractor I want.

[JerryK]

Also, should be ' Tractors I need vs Tractors I want ' [ plural ]

 

[K5lwq]

I'm considering that route. Mid decks aren't cheap and you can buy a dedicated mower for less in many cases.

I used a 38HP JD to do some rotary cutter work and it was bogging down on some of the stuff. So I know a smaller one will lug or just stop. So I'm afraid of getting something inadequate and regretting it. Also don't want to spend a ton on a bigger unit and never use it. I'm sure this is a typical problem for first time buyers.

Very few people get a tractor that is too big or has too much HP. Most people get a tractor that is too small and have to upgrade.

I would recommend getting a mower for the wife and bigger tractor for other work.

 

[LS Tractor Owner]

I had an MT125 TLB, great little tractor! I put in our new septic system, graded the site for a new cottage, did all the power and plumbing trenches, cut in the drive, etc.... it will do the jobs you are going to do, just not fast. I, too, had plenty of time, so that made it feasible. The little MT never let me down. 225 hours in 20 months.

I did end up selling it and purchased 2 sizes up, the LS XG3025 TLB (now MT225e). Much heavier, much bigger, more capable? Only in a couple of ways....1) the BH is definitely stronger. 2) The loader is definitely more stronger and the bucket is almost twice the size (so can carry more = more productive). Do I like the new tractor? ... absolutely! Do I miss the little 125? ... absolutely! They both have pros and cons.

If I were to be purchasing my first tractor all over again, and had to choose between these two, I would have to go with the larger XG3025, solely due to the greater capabilities. The only downfall with the MT225e is that it does not accept a MMM.

With that being said, the new 2020 Kioti CK2610 (similar size) can accept a 72 inch MMM. I do not know how much they will cost, but there is that option.

As said before many times on here, “ buy once, cry once”. Go sit on them, drive them, operate the controls, fit the tractor to you!

Good luck on your search! Do not hesitate to ask any more questions.

 

[LS Tractor Owner]

Also, when I sold my MT125, got 90% of my initial cost. I kept it looking and operating like new. I may have been in the right place at the right time ? but I really did not loose anything on the tractor after all the work it did (saving the cost of rentals or hiring the work out). It REALLY saved me about $5K.
Get the bigger tractor if you can, it will last you a looonnnggg time!

 

[shooterdon]

Take a close look at your needs and the time you have to get things done. Once you establish the minimum size tractor you need...buy one size larger. You will not put a lot of hours on your machine after the first couple of years. I think Kubota makes one of the best machines out there but I could not justify the investment or deal with the arrogant dealer. I doubt my LS will as last long as a Grand L, but it will outlast me. For most of us, size is more important than longevity,

 

[desertdog71]

You guys make some good points. You're supposed to help me narrow things down, not add options. ��

 

[TractorGuy]

For 10 acres you need a good used industrial size backhoe, a 50 HP cab tractor, and depending on how much yard a decent mower. If your wife is willing to help mow let HER pick out the mower. But make sure you like the mower too because it will end up being YOUR job. Just saying.

 

[jeff9366]

I'm a tractor virgin.
Recently purchased 10.3 AC of thistles, cedar, some sort of natural razor wire (?) and groves of saplings of assorted flavors and spikyness. Probably 2-3 AC of lawn. Some trails. Keep the rest knocked down a few times a year most likely. Its hard to say exactly, I can hardly see what I have.

Soil? I have no clue. I suspect it has some clay and shale and whatever else. It's mine spoils from 100 years ago when they strip mined coal in that area of Kansas.

Pick the implement requiring the most power to use, then select a tractor with enough power. Although I use my tractor for many things running a bush hog puts the greatest load on it.

I recommend a 1,000 pound heavy-duty Rotary Mower in 60" width. Such a mower requires a minimum of 35 horsepower, 40 horsepower better.
Same mower in 72" width requires a minimum of 40 horsepower, 45 horsepower better.

 

[whistlepig]

We have 20 acres. I have a 60" rotary cutter and a 72" rear finishing mower. I mow the majority of the yard with the RFM and then trim with a 54" zero turn and a weed eater. I have other attachments that require little power.

I also have a quick attach loader. The loader not only saves a lot of wear and tear on me but also turns a lot of two man jobs into a one man job.

 

[RjCorazza]

...
So let's hear some wisdom.

I would add 3 things:
1. Whatever you get, you will want a loader
2. Easy to spend someone's money, but I would be certain to buy a large enough tractor, maybe more than what you think you need.
3. Consider skipping the mid mount mower, and get a dedicated mower, preferably a zero turn. Zero turns save A LOT of time, and I'm sure your significant other would like it.

Happy shopping.