Trying to choose

brianMO · May 4, 2006

This is a model 7308 Newholland loader. So maybe I should jump on it. I know this is considered an economy tractor, no frills. Will I be happy with that? I do not know. TC30 owners don't seem to be complaining.

I am considering hydrastat ($1200 option). The question is will I kick myself if I do not get it. Is the gear model able to shift while moving? Those are questions I need answered first.

Brian
Mo

daTeacha · May 4, 2006

It sounds like you need to visit all the dealerships and pick up brochures with the vitals of each tractor listed in the book somewhere. They're free, and make good reading while on the throne and elsewhere. I have a stack of 'em!

You can plan on making your own chart of features and figures since there isn't any consistency about what the different makes list in their booklets. I needed two books to get information about the Case and NH products -- they list different stuff -- even though the tractors are very much alike.

Most include weight, length, height, etc. You can also find turning radius, available tranny's, tranny descriptions for different models and so on. It's enlightening reading.

KiotiJohn · May 4, 2006

( Is the gear model able to shift while moving? )
From what I see on NH website, the 9x3 transmission is mechanical, not synchronized except maybe between 2nd and reverse which are inline for quick shifting. Since they don't spell it out, I have to assume you can't shift on the go between the other gears. Not sure that should be a big drawback, but synchro tranny's are preferable to me.

John

Ryno1 · May 4, 2006

The TC30 gear tranny has to stop (well almost) to shift. Yes the TC30 is the old style, no bells and fancy do dads. It is very simply a work tractor. Nothing wrong with having all the bells and whistles, if they are important to you. I know some aren't comfortable (due to height or whatever) on a TC30. Personally I like it. I don't mind the old style tranny, in fact I prefer it. The hydro has it's place, I'd think anyone with leg/back problems should take a long look at the hydro. Same for anyone doing lots and lots of loader work.

BrianMo I think the deal you were offered is a pretty good one, but you probably need to check out some of the other brands. Lots of good ones, compare features, decide which ones are important to you. I didn't feel the need for some of the more "modern" features. To me they just looked like something else to go wrong. To you they may look like something that will be beneficial. Nothing wrong with either view.

JD, NH, Kubota, Kioti and others are no doubt all good tractors. It may even come down to two or three you like equally well, with similar deals and the decision will be made based on which dealer you trust.

brianMO · May 4, 2006

hey,

When you buy a tractor you know you are going to keep it a long time. You want to get it right the first time when selecting the options. I do not need the whistles and bells. I just need a good, dependable, and solid workhorse. Something that will last a long, long time. Will I use the loader alot? Probably not, so the 8X3 tranny may be fine for me.

The price given is about the same as a similar equipped Montana. The Montana I believe has hyro, and probably a few other luxuries.

I would like to stick to the big 4 if possible.

teg · May 4, 2006

IMHO, you need to think about what you will be using the tractor for, not just the cost. Are you going to use a finishing mower, brush hog, or a backhoe? A heavy tractor for loader work doesn't work well for mowing your lawn. Do you need a compact or is a sub-compact a better fit. What type of tires are you looking at? Just some ideas to think about. Good luck with your purchase. Teg

Sabooo · May 4, 2006

( It sounds like you need to visit all the dealerships and pick up brochures with the vitals of each tractor listed in the book somewhere. They're free, and make good reading while on the throne and elsewhere. I have a stack of 'em!

(snip) It's enlightening reading. )

My missus calls this my 'tractor ****.' /forums/images/graemlins/blush.gif

RodgerF · May 4, 2006

That's a good price with the NH loader. As far as the tranny, the 9x3 needs to come to a full stop to shift. 2nd and reverse are in line and can be "shuttled" back and forth rather quickly with a little practice. If you need the mid-pto for mowing or snowblowing consider the hydro version. The mid-pto can be added to the gear model by the dealer though.

The TC30 is a solid work tractor for a good price. Other brands such as Kioti offer more features for not a lot more money depending on the area. Make sure when comparing specs you compare apples to apples. Pivot point vs mid bucket, hitch balls vs 24 in. aft, etc.

Overall, I'm happy with mine. It gets used alot and never had any trouble with it. Some pics in action.

Rodger

brianMO · May 5, 2006

Rodger,

Thx for sharing the Pics. Looks like a real working machine. I bet I would look good on one of those. That is how I am trying to convince my wife. How do you guys do it?

RodgerF · May 5, 2006

( That is how I am trying to convince my wife. How do you guys do it? )

I'm not married /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif