What has happened to tractors? Help us choose another workhorse for our tree farm.

[DavesTractor]

The Mahindra paint issue has been much, much better since about 2008 or 2009. They changed paint formulas and models built after that hold up much better. They still fade some, like everything else, but they don't turn pink after a summer in the sun anymore.

The 5555 is probably a good fit for you. As you are a commercial user, it is really important to have a good dealer near by for any brand you buy. Because with the exception of your particular 3930, tractors do have a issues now and then and commercial users need fast quality service. If you have a good local Mahindra dealer, that tractor is worth considering. It is a fairly simple model. Whatever brand you buy, you might want to keep the old 3930 as a backup. Tractors only misbehave during harvest when they are critical to your income....

And if you really admire the 3930, you might just search for a low hour used 3930.

 

[GManBart]

If you're happy with your 3930, I can't see a reason for trying something different.

There's a nice 3930 available locally....under 650 hours for $11,998. There's even a guy here on TBN that hauls tractors on the side, and you could probably get someone to inspect it for you pre-purchase.

Ford Tractor 3930

I'd take a look at this one in NC.

Ford New Holland 3930

Nice one in SC that looks clean, and has all new tires:

NewHolland 3930

 

[RollingsFarms]

Have you thought about leasing? That would get you through the season and you could find out if you liked the tractor or not and maybe it would give you an idea of exactly what you did or didn't want in a new one. That would also give you time to have the 3930 rebuilt.

 

[GManBart]

Have you thought about leasing? That would also give you time to have the 3930 rebuilt.

The way he described it, the 3930 is still working, but they're expanding and want to add another tractor. I wouldn't expect that model to be worn out at 5K hours if properly cared for, but usage and conditions can certainly change things a lot.

 

[cutamerc]

Thank you for the links, those are very reasonable prices. Unfortunately, we would really like another four wheel drive model. I will certainly keep looking at the used market though. Whatever we end up with, we will still be keeping the 3930.

We have been fortunate so far, but I agree regarding having a good relationship with the dealer (another reason we were leaning toward a new machine). Various other smaller tractors as well as seasonal rentals we have had to use have all had problems. It is a matter of when, not if. Even though it is a long drive to our farm and we bought the tractor years ago, our dealer has been very responsive when we have needed them.

That's great to hear the Mahindra is simple, do you carry them at your dealership? If so, what has your experience been?

 

[cutamerc]

The way he described it, the 3930 is still working, but they're expanding and want to add another tractor. I wouldn't expect that model to be worn out at 5K hours if properly cared for, but usage and conditions can certainly change things a lot.

That is correct, the 3930 is humming along great. We have rented tractors for a few weeks at a time, but I would rather put the money toward something we could keep and use the rest of the year as well. Leasing is not something I have considered, I'll try to investigate that angle tonight.

 

[GManBart]

Thank you for the links, those are very reasonable prices. Unfortunately, we would really like another four wheel drive model. I will certainly keep looking at the used market though. Whatever we end up with, we will still be keeping the 3930.

You're right...I forgot the 4wd requirement. There's a nice one on Tractor House right now: http://www.tractorhouse.com/listingsdetail/detail.aspx?OHID=5804288

I've never owned a Mahindra, but they have a solid reputation as far as durability, and reliability....so I wouldn't let that scare you away if you like the specs. Keep in mind that some Mahindra models are actually made in Japan (by Mitsubishi) and some are made in Korea (by TYM). That's not necessarily a negative, and some folks consider it a positive, but it's just a good thing to be aware of. It seems like most folks say the models they make themselves, in India, are the simpler, more basic style you're talking about (nothing wrong with that for many uses).

 

[DavesTractor]

That's great to hear the Mahindra is simple, do you carry them at your dealership? If so, what has your experience been?

Yes we do carry them, so my opinion will no doubt be biased some. We sell a lot of Mahindra tractors and are very pleased with them. Mahindra has many models, built all over the world. I have models that I like more than others. I suspect an honest dealer will say that about any brand. The 5555 is a new model based on an old model that had a good reputation for simplicity and durability, it was a good solid heavy duty tractor. We have not yet received our Tier IV 5555 models, but the first thing I'll want to check is how the changes have been integrated into this new model. Are all electronics well sealed from dust and rain, wiring secured well against chaffing, hoses routed securely, etc., can you get to the radiator screen easily to clean, are filters easy to change? Basically, have they done a really good job of integrating the new technology into this frame. It is the little things that cause issues. I suspect all of that has been well sorted out, but I have yet to spend any real time with a 5555. For sure it ought to be on your short list. Heavy tractor, lots of steel, minimal electronics, simple transmission. All good stuff for a working tractor.

 

[downslope]

The 3930 is more of a straddle mount whereas most of the new utility tractors you are sitting on a platform, so it seems higher and more precarious than it actually is. Is the straddle mount important to you for visibility and overhead clearance? If buying new I would look at the JD 5000 E series because they would be in your price range and are quite heavy, no-frills.

But for the way you're using the tractor probably most ideal would be a model specifically built low-profile, like a New Holland 4/4000 F series or a Deere 5000 ML series, although these might be out of your price range, especially the Deere.

Since it seems you're in the business for the long haul I wouldn't cut too many corners in compromising what you finally buy. When you go with a more upscale name-brand machine you will have additional choices of tires (sizes,radials etc.), transmission options (power reverser, creeper, power shift, more speeds are always better...) which can make you more productive. Turbo or non-turbo shouldn't really be an issue. If you do any slow work be sure whatever machine you choose will run slow enough for the task without running near idle.

 

[terryknight]

you'r looking for a bare bones utility tractor. as mentioned the 2600 series from MF, the 5000E series from JD, the Workmaster series from CNH, Farmall A series from CNH (same as the workmaster except one is blue the other red), the 30 series from Mahindra all qualify. i looked (looking for a 45ish PTO tractor) at all but the case series in 13, the JD was the most expensive at 23xxx something.