Which garden tractor do I need??

[OB1]

While looking around on the net, I also find the 3206 was a line model also offering the differential lock. Anyone have any thoughts on this model? The used category is probably where I will need to be and the 3235 is in the 2004 new model line up.

 

[Libertine]

OB1:

You might want to give some thought to a 2 wheeler, given the size of your property. There is a thread in the general buying forum (same one you posted to) on them-lots of photos too. You might want to study that. These are often dismissed by those unaware of their capabilities who have never used one, but in Europe they are used as professional ag tractors. They will do everything the models you are looking at will do plus a lot, lot more-including doing 180s when mowing just like a ZTR. For many tasks, the 2 wheel tractor will easily "out work" a garden tractor, can be used on steep slopes, are simpler to maintain, etc. They come with geared transmission, geared PTO (using both PTO lugs & standard 1 3/8" PTO shaft), shuttle shift, differential lock, etc.-everything you might find on a larger CUT. You can use almost any small gas engine or small industrial diesel engine. Unlike a garden tractor, it is very easy to adjust the track width (distance between tires) from very narrow to as wide as a typical CUT. Also, you can use any pull behind implement sold for garden tractors with a 2 wheel tractor (there are photos in the above mentioned thread). If you are on a budget, older 2 wheel Gravelies can be purchased very reasonably-although they lack some of the more modern features of the newer 2 wheelers. I had two (before I bought a new BCS model 850) and used them for pushing snow with a dozer blade (although blowers are available), finish mowing, brush hogging (including wacking down small sapplings), plowing, tilling, etc. etc. For many tasks, I prefer a 2 wheeler to my NH TC40. Their main weakness is lack of loader/back hoe capacity (although you can get a small backhoe for a 2 wheeler). But you're not going to get much loader capacity on a garden tractor anyway. For the smaller property they are a real alternative to the garden tractor.

Link to very knowledgeable BCS dealer-lot's of info.

You owe it to yourself to at least check into it.

JEH