What to buy???

jbhjlch · Jun 15, 2004

Hello all. I am new to the forum, and new to tractors. My wife and I are purchasing 12.5ac of land and want to use some of it, say 10ac, for timber growing/harvesting. The property is relatively hilly, and when we thin the trees we will need something to haul logs up and down the hills. We are trying to think about whether to get a tractor or a truck. We would be able to use the tractor to mow lawn/cut brush along the road as well, but that seems like a riding mower would work. Advice?? Also, what is a good way to find a decent, cheap, entry model tractor, and which one should we get???
Any info will be greatly appreciated!

Bob_Skurka · Jun 15, 2004

I've been waiting for someone else to answer, but given the size of the property I'd suggest something in the 24 to 30hp range. You want a budget tractor, and you are new to tractors.

So from my perspective, I would suggest something from a major brand player because they are safe bets for parts, service, local dealerships, etc. And because you are new, I would STRONGLY urge you to look at a hydrostatic transmission (HST, HSD). In the 30hp range, the New Holland TC30, the Kubota B7800 and I think the JD 790 are all considered "value" tractors without having lots of whistles and bells, but all are solid machines. I know the TC30 and B7800 are availabe with hydro transmission, but I don't know about the JD for sure.

You could step down a little in size, if so, the Kubota B2610 would be a nice choice, also a value oriented machine without all the features.

Again, I am only recommending tractor that have an HST transmission for you and I strongly recommend it for anyone new. You say you have hills, well HST is MUCH safer on hills, again, especially so for new users. And it is more convenient to use too.

I believe Kioti is coming out with HST transmissions in their 25 to 30 hp range machines, in some regions Kioti is prices lower than the major 3 brands, in other areas it is right up there in price witht he big 3. Kioti is considered a minor brand, but it is growing rapidly and the dealers are typically solid dealerships. As a newbie, you probably want to stick with a tractor that has a very good dealer standing behind the machine unless you want to get out and wrench the tractor yourself. Personally I don't.

Many of the minor brands are solid tractors, but many do not offer HST, or do not offer smaller tractors and it doesn't sound like you want a big unit (nor does it sound like you need a big unit). Also, some of the really low end units (Jinma/Farm Pro) make a decent work horse machine but doesn't offer HST, and dealerships are often of poor quality that are more concerned about selling tractor than fixing them (totally depends on the dealer in your area!).

So my first choice would be something right at 30hp. Second choice would be something a little smaller (24-25hp). HST only. R-4 tires, they are good for mowing, good for loader work, not great for either, but a turf tire is terrible for loader work and an R1 is great for loader but terrible for mowing. R4's are a compramise. You'll want a front end loader for hauling out the trees, etc. A mid mount mower might be easier for you, but it is more expensive than a rear mower, so for budget purposes, a rear mower on the 3pt hitch would save you money. On mowers you get what you pay for, buy cheap and replace it every 5-7 years, buy good and it will easily last 15 years.

Charlie_in_TX · Jun 16, 2004

Timber is a specialty and I am not sure what that will require from a tractor. It will largly depend on if you have pasture now and will plant saplings or if you have an existing forest to clear.

2.5 acres of lawn can be handled with a garden tractor.

jbhjlch · Jun 21, 2004

Thanks for the info. At this point, the 25-30 hp range is what I was thinking of, but wanted to get some input. However, since I also have a house that I am paying for and this property, I can not afford to spend a ton of money. Have you ever bought used equipment? I assume that if you go to a dealer you will get a better unit than buying used from a private party?

jbhjlch · Jun 21, 2004

Charlie,

The property is mostly blackberries and smallish maples which need to be removed...

Bob_Skurka · Jun 21, 2004

I don't know if buying a used unit from a dealer is a better bet than buying from a private party, I suppose it depends on the unit. You might actually get a partial warrenty out of a dealer? Even if it is only 30 to 90 days, that will be worth some piece of mind.

I have purchased used implements from private parties and never been disappointed with them. But I look them over and if they have a gearbox I would strongly suggest you run them before forking over the money. A modestly used rotary cutter can be had at 1/2 the price of new.

Freds · Jun 21, 2004

I recently thought of going with ags on my new tractor, since its primary use is in my field, but then the dealer told me that R-4s last longer due to being made with a harder rubber.
Just thougth I'd mention that since I don't recall having read it before.