Which Older Tractor - A Few Options I've Found

[TomSeller]

Here is one for example that I thought might do what I needed:
2006 jima diesel 4x4 254xl front loader
.

I wouldn't even reach for a 10' pole on that one.

 

[4570Man]

I wouldn't even reach for a 10' pole on that one.

I wouldn't touch a Chinese tractor with a 15 foot pole.

 

[stan33]

It is red, at least. It's got that going for it.

 

[clayrogers]

Yep, that's kind of the consensus I found when searching online. So, with my budget of around $5000, it seemed like an older ag tractor was my best bet.

Here is the list I have of tractors to look for that from input from you guys and elsewhere seem like they would be my best bet:
Ford 3000, 4000, 5000 and newer variants like 3600, 4600

Internationals - 4x4 or 5x4 series which would be 424, 444, 464, 574, 584, etc

Massey 35, 135, 150

Compact:
Ford in 00 series - 1500, 1700, 1900
John Deere xx70 - 870, 970, 1070

Let me know if something seems wrong with that list or if there are others I should add.

I'm still considering that MF 175 but have not gone to look at it yet.

 

[buickanddeere]

As previously mentioned . I hope there is another $5000 in the repair budget after spending $5000 from the purchase budget.
Over the next 20yrs. The lowest cost per year average and the highest retained value. Will be via purchasing a new tractor with warranty with the current low interest rates .

 

[buickanddeere]

As previously mentioned . I hope there is another $5000 in the repair budget after spending $5000 from the purchase budget.
Over the next 20yrs. The lowest cost per year average and the highest retained value. Will be via purchasing a new tractor with warranty with the current low interest rates .

 

[LD1]

the ford 00 series is the smaller ones of the bunch.

The deere x70 series is probably too new, and to find a good one with loader is likely going to be over your budget. Might want to look at the slightly older x50 series. Like 850,950,1050, etc.

Personally I'd try to stay newer than the MF35. Lots of things were optional. Like powersteering and 2-stage clutch. Get one without the options and it aint much of a step up from an 8n. So I'd keep my eyes on 135 or newer for massey. Or even something in the 2-series. 230,235,245,255, etc

Lots of good choices out there, its hard to make a list of everything that is "good" and everything to "avoid". And alot of times, with different options, it might be model xyz is good IF.......and avoid IF......

If you find something you think might work, do your research. Look at parts availability, post back here, etc. Cause it really is a case by case basis. But you got a good start

 

[coralhead]

If it were up to me with that budget, I would find a MF 135 with the Perkins 3 cyl diesel (very fuel efficient) with good rubber on the back. If you have little mechanic experience stay away from the multipower (I have one and had the ability to rebuild it myself). It will probably have 6 forward and 2 reverse transmission, live pto and hydraulics. If you want a front loader to move firewood and move dirt, forget that and get a 3 pt platform for the back to haul wood and a 3 point scoop to move dirt and gravel. The big permanent attached loader will be cumbersome when mowing, working in the woods, and working in the garden. Front loaders are nice if the are easy to remove as are the newer CUT loaders but not really needed at this point in your budget. Find a 3 pt blade for moving snow. Work yourself up to a nicer tractor in the future. You will be surprised what you can do without. A MF 135 is one of the most popular tractors built and sold.

 

[Soundguy]

Me? I'd avoid the 1500-1900 fords in favor of a good 3x00 or 4x00 ford.

 

[ovrszd]

Me? I'd avoid the 1500-1900 fords in favor of a good 3x00 or 4x00 ford.

I agree. I think the long term reliability is much better. With any care a 3x00 or 4x00 will outlive you.