Buying Advice Not Sure What Type of Tractor to Buy

[HFF]

Hi. My husband and I are just starting out and I'm sorry for asking what are probably dumb questions --

We bought a 12 acre property that we are just starting to operate as a very small farm. We have 5 acres that we plan to hay or use for grazing for the first few years and about 4 acres that we plan to plant crops (vegtables). The other 3 are sloped woods and wetlands. There is a six stall horse barn. We have chickens and may have horses and other animals to graze a bit later on after we get settled.

We are not sure what type of tractor to buy. We need a tractor to till and help plant the four acres, remove brush, move hay to the barn, move stuff from the stalls and barn and plow snow. We don't have the equipment to hay the 5 acres and husband's cousin has equipment and will help with that.

Not sure whether to use a tractor to plow snow or to buy a truck and add a snow plow. We probably need both but can only afford to start out with one. Driveway is long (runs about 1300 feet since property is sort of a long rectangle) and is graveled and has a small hill (20% grade?). I'm not sure my husband can really plow it with a tractor but I think he plans to try.

Any advice on what type of tractor to buy (subcompact, utility), HP, brand (husband likes JD, MF and the Kubota seems like a really good tractor). Again, I'm sorry for such dumb questions. I've read articles on this but am really still confused since there are so many options. My husband would probably be embarrassed that I"m posting this (sort of like asking for directions), but we could use all the help we can get.

 

[Biggreenavalanche]

I'd also recommend taking a look at both Mahindra and Kioti...both offer excellent value for your money...you may want to consider a cab model, and, he'll definitely be able to clear the drive with a tractor, snowblowers are available for tractors and seem to be popular up in the snowbelt...as far as model, recommend you look at the Mahindra 3616 cab, should handle just about all your needs, also make sure you get it with a front end loader (FEL)...FWD, cab,heat and AC, radio, you may not see him for a while !

Just my :2cents:

Rich

 

[s219]

I think we all had questions like this at some point, so don't worry about asking them here.

Offhand, I am thinking you'd want something at least as big as a 3-series Deere or it's equivalent from other brands. I only use Deere as a reference -- I own a Kubota myself. Brand is not so important, as they all make good tractors nowadays. You can shop around and see which dealer and price/feature combination feels the best to you.

I'd probably pick a tractor over a truck+plow, as the tractor will be more versatile on your property. I'd have a hard time justifying the cost of a plow on a truck if it was only used on a single 1300 foot driveway. In contrast, snow removal would be just one of many tasks a tractor could do fairly well.

Make sure you get a tractor that is big enough. I bought a Kubota B2920 for logging and light site work, and that was one size bigger than what I started shopping for. Now that our land is clear and I have a long driveway in place, I see I could have easily gone one size bigger if I didn't need to work in tight spaces when skidding logs out of the woods. In your case, I really think a 3-series equivalent is the minimum size to consider.

Also plan your budget for implements, which can add up to as much or more than the tractor. The tractor with a front end loader (FEL) is the typical basic starting point. But to really do a lot of the chores you mention, you will probably want some implements. It's important to plan that out ahead of time as much as possible, since it can influence the choice/size of tractors.

Good luck!

 

[woodlandfarms]

30 to 40HP is always ideal, but price is an issue, nothing under 25 HP IMO for ground engagement. Plan on spending half again on implements

Tractors are mostly the same (in a big picture sort of way). I would always first look at a dealers repair shop. Nice people, relatively clean and organized, approachable with stupid questions. If the answer is no to this, move on. Service is the most important part of owning a tractor. One note is that Kubota controls are quite different from JD (and I think MF). See which you are most comfortable on.

I am a fan of used equipment, especially ground engaging. If it has some sort of a motor (like mowers or snow blowers), and you can swing it, buy new.

I do not do a lot of ground engagement so take my advice with a grain of salt. Get a bucket on the tractor, and mower for the back. The guys will respond but you may be looking at a tiller as a best option for only 5 acres. From there, I would take a break, get to see what you an and can't do, ask questions, look for used and buy as you need, which you will. Lots of toys for tractors to take the work load off. I think I have 10 implements now, started with 2. Made some of my own, bought most.

Tractor for snow clearing. Depending on your situation, you probably want chains, but be prepared, they aren't cheap.

Of course you husband is embarrassed. He doesn't read manuals either. But the forum is really, really cool with some amazing people and information. A big surprise for the net. Leave the computer up with the page open after you get a few other opinions and he will have his own handle and be asking away. We do not have a lot of women on the site, but all are treated very respectfully. My wife comes on on occassion to ask questions under my handle.

 

[riptides]

Welcome to TBN. No such thing as being embarrassed here. Your questions are spot-on and well thought about.

I'd say, the tractor is more important than the truck, if you’re just starting out with the land, and getting ideas on what you want to do.

Unfortunate, it sounds like you have plans for everything, for this one tractor. Ranging from possible stall work (tractor size), working around the buildings and property (field, wetlands, woods, driveway), (tractor size and weight), harvesting, plowing and utility work, (tractor power, size).

That's a big broad picture for one machine. I had property a while back that sounded like yours. I settled on a 30HP, 4 wheel drive, NEW model (safety features) with a front-end loader and picked up a blade (drive way maintenance) and a brush-cutter (field maintenance). I sized it for working just around the house and barn, small enough to get around, but ample size and ground clearance to venture into the woods. We also purchased a utility vehicle shortly after that. It helped with the everyday chores of hauling (wood, manure, feed, kids) around.

Now my setup never involved crop work (haying or tillage) but it was perfect for the tending and maintenance of the property. We also had a rake for the gravel driveway. In winter I still use it, to this day on another property, but only really use the front-end loader to get the majority of the snow, somewhere else.

Again, welcome and keep asking questions, you’re in good hands, on this site.

 

[k0ua]

No need to be embarrassed, there are lots of knowledgeable folks here that can help you with your decision. I will only offer a few tidbits of advice, and perhaps others will join in with more detail. I would advise the following things. 4WD is a must., All three brands you mentioned are fine quality tractors. I have owned 2 Kubota's and Now am a Kioti owner, and they have all been fine tractors. I would think you would need at least a 35 horse tractor, but 40 might be better. I am an advocate of the Hydrostatic transmission, as I believe it just makes operation so much easier and less fatiguing. It will really help with the Loader work, and running a tiller will be easier also as you can speed up and slow down easier. On the brush removal, I am not sure how large this brush is, perhaps a rotary cutter could just chop it up, or maybe you will be cutting it down with a chainsaw and transporting it to a pile. In which case a grapple could be helpful. Most people think a plow truck is faster for snow plowing, but you can do it with a tractor also. Here again a larger tractor can speed things up. Since you are new to tractors, and would probably require the assistance of a dealer for service and maintenance I would suggest that finding a dealer you are comfortable with and can trust might be more important than brand. Good luck with your purchase.

James K0UA

 

[TripleR]

Welcome to TBN. Muhammed, who own this site has a book on tractors you might want to pick up up.

There are a dizzying number of models among the top brands that will satisfy your needs and agree with biggreenavalance; look at all brands. My family own Case, John Deere, Kubota, Massey Ferguson and my brother recently bought a Kioti.

While I am not brand loyal, I won't buy unless there is a very good dealership locally; can't over emphasize the importance of good dealer support, at least for many of us.

We own SCUT's that are real work horses, but for your needs, my choice would be a CUT of 30+ HP 4WD with FEL and HST as HST is much easier for the new owner; I am assuming you will have a separate machine for lawn maintenance. I prefer something with position control 3PH, that allows you precise repeatable position of equipment height. Some like quarter inching 3PH, but in my opinion it is harder to use and allows equipment to settle down while in use.

When looking at new purchases, my wife and I spend a lot of time looking up specs and going to dealers looking at different makes and models. If possible, we go on an off day to avoid salesmen and spend some time checking the controls, operator platform and overall "feel" of the tractor. This will give you a good starting point in your final selection when you begin dealing with the sales person.

Take some time to check around to see what your neighbors are using; often an invaluable resource.

Try the tractors out as much as possible at the dealers.

One thing we have noticed, even after driving these things for a LOT of years is they tend to "shrink" once on your property and you are using them.

There are a lot of very knowledgeable TBN members, so don't hesitate to ask questions as your search progresses, I have sought advice and counsel her on my purchases of tractors and equipment which really helped.

Good luck in your search.

EDIT: By the time I typed this several other members have posted excellent advice.

 

[MarkV]

I'll say welcome also. Good advice has been given so I'll just add that if you plan on using the hay for your own critters find out what size bales your cousin makes. Square bales are not much of an issue but some round bales can weight in a range that you need to have a tractor that can move them. So look at loader capacity while shopping.

 

[DAY]

Well, of COURSE we all want you to buy a tractor! Preferably, two.
So, I'll be a contrarian, and say get a 4WD pickup, with a snow blade. A quarter mile drive is pretty long to plow snow in the winter in CT. And the truck will have a gazillion other uses, as well.
As for tractors, read the threads here, and rent before you buy.

 

[TripleR]

Well, of COURSE we all want you to buy a tractor! Preferably, two.
So, I'll be a contrarian, and say get a 4WD pickup, with a snow blade. A quarter mile drive is pretty long to plow snow in the winter in CT. And the truck will have a gazillion other uses, as well.
As for tractors, read the threads here, and rent before you buy.

Excellent advice, it give the novice a baseline for comparison.

For what it's worth, my wife has her own tractors, a BX2200 and BX2660, but often runs our Kubota L5740 if we need the M8540 and L5740 going or if I am unable to operate one for a while.

 

[TripleR]

Mention has been made of buying used, here is an example of a potentially nice unit I would consider and if it was available a couple of weeks ago might would have bought it; don't see them that often.

We have bought used several times.

2007 Kubota tractor

 

[Biggreenavalanche]

TripleR is spot on about dealers ! Absolutely go with a good,solid,reputable, dealer...as I found out (in a good way) they can make or break your experience with tractors...I'm luck, got a good local dealer for the brand I bought...

Rich

 

[bigbull338]

from what your plans are for the tractor the hp should be 45 to 55hp.an that will allow you to plow your driveways without the added expenses of a plow truck.that money can go on the tractor.youll want a loader an 4x4 no question.an depending on who is driving an HST tranny.the tractor can move round bales an till your gardens an clear brush if needed.

 

[hosspuller]

Tractor or Truck is the first question to be answered. You will need both at some point if your farm is sucessful. I 'd pick the tractor first since some jobs can only be done with a tractor. You can always have supplies, fertilizer and such delivered, but need a tractor to move or apply it. I would figure that in your area the dealers lean more toward lawn & garden than agriculture. There is a difference in service and attitude. Choose your dealer wisely.

 

[MarkV]

from what your plans are for the tractor the hp should be 45 to 55hp.an that will allow you to plow your driveways without the added expenses of a plow truck.that money can go on the tractor.youll want a loader an 4x4 no question.an depending on who is driving an HST tranny.the tractor can move round bales an till your gardens an clear brush if needed.

Really, 45 to 55 hp for the 5 acres they are working themselves. I would go above a sub-compact and make sure I had enough loader to move whatever size hay they produce, if they are going to use it themselves. Other wise I think they can get by well below 45 hp.

MarkV

 

[Mark Page]

I'm concentrating my advice on the snow issue as its requires the most tractor to handle. You'll want something around 40 - 45 horsepower with 4wd (a must for snow) hydrostatic transmission, a front end loader ( the graple style is best for moving brush) a front mounted snow blower, bush hog, rear scraper blade for moving lighter snow falls and maintaining your driveway, post hole digger for constructing fencing. You can get away with a rear mounted blower but you have to work in reverse which is a pain. I like Masseys, I've owned 3 and have had good luck. Deeres are pricey I've heard mothing but good things about Kiotis, Mahindras, Kubotas and New Hollands.
Visit some dealers, tell them what you want to do. They can be most informative. I guess my strongest advice is not let them sell you down on power. A 40-45 horse machine not only has more power but it has more weight and when it comes to tractors more weight equals more traction.
Beware of the Chineese made brands.

 

[bigbull338]

Really, 45 to 55 hp for the 5 acres they are working themselves. I would go above a sub-compact and make sure I had enough loader to move whatever size hay they produce, if they are going to use it themselves. Other wise I think they can get by well below 45 hp.

MarkV

a 45hp might be able to handle a 4 by 5 bale.but it would still be lite on the front end.ive got the 55hp kubota an i handle 4 by 6 an 5 by 6 bales with ease on the fel as long as i have 1 on the rear.

 

[94BULLITT]

I would go with a Grand L Kubota, like a L3540 or larger. The Grand L is a really nice tractor with some neat features. A cab may be something good for you since you have a long drive and will need to keep it open in the winter. Hydro transmissions are very nice and user friendly. I you decide to go with a tractor without a cab a Kubota MX5100 may be good for you.

 

[HFF]

Oh my goodness - thank you all so much for such a warm welcome and for not making me feel so embarrassed for asking what are really dumb questions. I wasn't sure anyone would answer and was overwhelmed with all the really nice and helpful responses. Thank you all!

Rich - Thank you for recommending the Mahindra 3616. It looks likes a beautiful tractor and if my husband does end up getting one with a cab, AC, FWD, radio, heat, I think you are right - I probably won't seem him again for months!

Woodlandfarms - I took your advice and left the computer open. My husband saw this thread and was a little embarrassed that I wrote in (you were right he doesn't read manuels either) but he read every one of the replies and kept coming back to the computer. He spent about several hours late last night looking at the posts again and all the different models everyone recommended and started a list. He's been talking about tractors now all weekend and I'm sure is going to start posting some questions under his own handle. (He's been busy trying to clear brush/woods all weekend with a wheelbarrow and garden tools (which hasn't gone all that well) and will probably write in on his own tomorrow or Tuesday. And thank you for the advice about buying used but making sure to buy new motors if we can and that the controls are different on the Kubota.


s219 - Thank you for such a nice welcome. My husband will definately look at the 3 series Deere and Kubota. And I didn't know the implements will end up costing as much as the tractor. I didn't even know that tractors cost a lot more than cars until this weekend.

Riptides - Thank you too for such a nice welcome. I think we are trying to do too much at first and probably expecting too much of our first tractor. My husband thought it was a great idea about the gravel rake and blade, since our driveway has potholes and needs more gravel. I think we will end up getting a utility vehicle as soon as we can afford it after the tractor (not sure whether it will be that first or a pick up truck). We have four kids (including two babies and an older son with special needs) and it's getting hard to keep pulling them all in wagons up and down the farm.

James KOUA - Thank you too for such great advice and for not making me feel so embarrassed for writing in. My husband made a list of specs from theses posts and added 4WD, hydrostatic and at least 40 HP (or 45-55 if we can afford it). Thank you.

TripleR - Thank you for such great advice and for such a nice welcome. We do have a separate mower for the yard. My husband added high HP, FEL, HS to his list. We really hope we can find a good dealer - it's funny that they all seem to only deal with one brand and that you can't really go to one tractor store to buy a tractor. Great advice about going on a day off. I'm sure the sale people will realize that we don't really know that we are new to this and it would be nice to get a feel for the tractors before they start the sales pitch. Glad to hear your wife has her own tractors. Hope someday I can get my own (or at least a utility vehicle to move the kids and things to and from the barn). Really great quote from Samuel Johnson.

MarkV - Thank you for mentioning the bales and for the nice welcome. I think the bales are large round instead of the small square ones and my husband is going to ask his cousin what is the best way to move the bales and what size loader capacity he will need. Most farms around here are small horse farms and use the square bales and my husband's cousin has a much bigger farm up north. We are really grateful he is going to help with this because we heard bale equipment can be very expensive and there are not many people who bale hay around here any more. And thanks for the advice on HP. We will try to get 45 to 55 HP if we can afford it. Thank you.

DAY - Now my husband really wants both a truck and a tractor! Thank you. But I think you are right - it would be much easier to have a truck in the winter here for the snow . I hope we will be able to get one after a year or so. It seems kind of funny but I think trucks cost less than tractors.

BigBull338 - Really good point about HP for plowing the drive way and hay bales and getting the added HP. It's a long drive way with a small hill and some turns and a lot of trees and I worry about husband getting stuck in the snow. Hay bales are big round bales. I'm not sure what size they are but my husband will check with his cousin to make sure he gets the right size loader to handle the bales. Thank you!

Hosspuller - I think we will get a tractor first, since it does more than a truck (but thanks to DAY my husband wants both!). And you are right about the dealers around here -- they deal mostly with lawn and garden and the nearest real farm tractor dealer is almost an hour north from here. I hope we can find a good dealer. Thank you.

Mark Page - Thank you for the advice on HP. We are going to try for 45 to 55 HP if we can afford it or at least 40 HP, with HS, FEL. My husband added all the things you mentioned to his list. Glad to hear good things about Massey too. Thank you!

94Bullitt - Thank you for the advice about the Kubota L3540. My husband took a look online and really liked it. Am hoping we can afford one with a cab. They seem safer and a lot warmer too! Thank you.


Just wanted to thank you all again for such great advice and such a nice welcome. I'm sure my husband will write in on his own but we are both so grateful for the advice. And again sorry for so many questions - and also now for such a long email, but I just wanted to thank you all personally for such great advice. (And hope I didn't miss anyone).

 

[woodlandfarms]

2 more things, or should I say one new and one old

Its the dealer, not the tractor. Unless you are super mechanically inclined, go visit your dealers first. Get their opinions, look at their service department, takes some brochures and prices home. Find out who he has sold to and ask them what their experience was like. Every manufacturer makes a lemon. A few more than others but the major brands are about the same. Won't do you any good to review the outstanding kubota line if you don't have a dealer or a dealer worth his salt.

Second, ask about a demo day. Many dealers will bring out a machine for you to put a few hours on. Get the feel of. I bet 90% of those delivered are never picked up ;-) If they won't deliver, rent one for a day or a week. I was raised with large ag tractors, had no sense of what a SCUT or CUT was. Now I own a tractor that no one in my neck of the woods has ever seen.

Anyway. You came to the right place for advice on tractors, and on projects.