Considering this Massey Ferguson... opinions...

SonnieP · Aug 4, 2005

I'm somewhat (partially) cross posting this from the general forum but want the MF users to give me opinions in case you haven't seen my other post.

I visited the MF dealer this morning and looked at this tractor for bushhogging about 20-25 acres and blading my 1270' long driveway.

This is what he suggested:

MF 431 2WD 52HP/44HP PTO $12700
500lbs front weights $507.35
MF 2006 80HP 825lb 6' Cutter with slip clutch $1648
MF 570 583lb 7' Box Blade $769
Rear wheels filled with water/antifreeze

Out the door for $16014

OR swap the cutter and box blade for:

Big Bee 80HP 6' 710lb Cutter $1224
Big Bee 7' 592lb Box Blade $450

Out the door for $15253

Curious if these prices are reasonable, competitive, and will this machine be a good one to own over the long haul.

Thanks!

scott_vt · Aug 4, 2005

Sonnie,
What I have heard from other members, the 431 is a great machine for the money. I think that you are looking at the right size machine for what your planning to do with it. Other than the size of the mower, which should be just about right for that machine I cant really help you out.

scotty /forums/images/graemlins/cool.gif

SonnieP · Aug 4, 2005

Well I've just about convinced myself to step up to the 4WD model. My says if I'm gonna get a tractor then she wants me to be able to cut down close to the pond, which is very wet and boggy.

It appears I may get the most bang for the buck stepping up to the 4WD model in MF and maybe even considering the 451 with independent PTO clutch. I believe the dealer told me I'd be looking at about $2500 more, but I'll have to double check with him tomorrow.

I'm really liking that Perkins engine and the heaviness of the tractor. And the prices seem to be the lowest of any of the tractors in that HP range.

JerryG · Aug 5, 2005

I would say go with the 451 with the IPTO and 4wd. If you did ever want to trade or sell it you would get more of your money back. Another thing, if you do ever get more land, you are set for it with this size of tractor. Also, get the 8 x 8 shuttle. It makes loader work and mowing much easier.

SonnieP · Aug 5, 2005

I'm not going to be getting a loader... I don't want to find out how I would have ever lived without one, but tell me... what is an 8 X 8 shuttle and how does it make mowing easier?

Thanks!

JerryG · Aug 5, 2005

With a shuttle, you have the same number reverses that you have forwards. If you are mowing forward and want to back around something, you just shift the lever to the left of the wheel. The lever is the direction change from forward to backward. It is late and I am tired. I have 50,000 chickens going to market in a couple of hours. That is why this may not make much since.

scott_vt · Aug 5, 2005

Sonnie,
As Jerry said the FWD is great to have. I use mine all the time, but Im up in the mountains of Vt. Its a must up here. I dont think you can go wrong with spending the extra money for FWD !!!

scotty