Dealer Dealer service - a major factor?

[lhfarm]

I am pricing a TC40D w/ FEL & BH at 3 dealers. The closest dealer and the one with current highest offer is about 12 miles away. Number 2 in the running is about 45 miles away and the current front runner is around 40 miles away. I don't have a trailer big enough to haul the tractor in for service if/when it is required. So a couple of questions for you guys.

1. Never owned a new tractor and have done all my own repair and maintenance on the two I have owned. Am I going to want/need to return the tractor to the dealer for the first major service (I believe at 50 hrs)? If yes, should I make the first service part of the deal?

2. Would I be better off in the long run paying a little more for the near-by dealer since that would probably be my first choice for service in the future?

3. Anything else I should be working into the deals?

Thanks,
Barry

 

[gamble77]

If the price isn't too far off then I would buy from the local dealership. Nothing like building a relationship to help your needs in the future.

 

[MikeBurr]

For my first service, the dealer had a service truck come by my house and service it in my drive. Did a check over and oil/filter change, less than 1 hr. Check to see if the dealers have such service. I should only have to go back to the dealer for something major.