Satoh ELKS550 4.00 star(s) (4)

Satoh Elk Right Size, Right Price
Model Year: 0

As an exercise in minimalism, the Satoh Elk really hit the mark. Since I knew nothing about tractors when I purchased it in 1987, keeping things as uncomplicated as possible, while getting a right-sized tractor for my property seemed like a good idea. Did I mention that I also had to rebuild an old home that my wife an kids just moved into? It has more than paid for itself over the years, with very little maintenance. No four wheel drive, FEL, ROPS, or hydromatic trans, but the 1,500 pounds of pulling, snow plowing, post hole digging, (with an ancient auger) works perfectly for my property. Sure I need to winch it out of the mud once a year, but it has become a right of spring. Not sure what I will buy when it goes, or what type of simple ceremony I will have. Perhaps a tea ceremony?

Pros: Simple, easy to fix.
Cons: Parts availability will become a problem.

Satoh S550G
Model Year: 1979

For a two wheel drive gas tractor under 20HP this is not a bad machine. It is primarily used for snow blowing and moving loose material and property maintenance. It is a little under powered but is you are not in a hurry, it will does the job blowing a country lane of 300 feet with trailer and vehicle parking and keeping the shop access clear. The drag blade and trailer hitch are good additions. Grading and leveling the gavel lane and moving any of the 4 trailers around the shop yard make this a useful machine. Cross matching engine parts to Mazda and ford imports helps on parts sourcing. Purchased used with a Schawrtz loader,a Case drag blade,chains counterweight and Braber PTO blower at around $5K it is good value. Manual shift with hi low range is fussy but workable.

Pros: Price and functionality good, hydraulics ports, simple design, gas fuel.
Cons: Could use a little more power, two wheel drive, no hydro drive.

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Little Monster
Model Year: 1973

This little tractor has been a life saver and a no-gut monster. Mitsubishi motor gas that is mixed on when it's a mule or a goat but I like the dependability, the size, and turns. It is really fuel econ. friendly. It does have user friendly controls and mechanics but parts are hard to find at times and expensive but overall a 4 on scale.

Pros: Tough.
Cons: No guts.

Used Satoh Elk Gas [Mazda engine]
Model Year: 1980

Good little tractor plenty of power for its size, parts fairly easy to find. I have parts & user manuals if anyone needs information I will try to help.

Pros: Close to ground.
Cons: Steering loose.