Finally Made Up My Mind

cedarman · Apr 17, 2004

Got to be NH, just like the feel better. Went to the dealer today but salesman wasn't working so a guy in the shop got me the keys and let me drive the 24 and 33 AGAIN anywhere I wanted, pastures and side hills with some slope factor. I just keep going back to the 33 and that's what it's going to be. Just like the extra features, weight, and comfort. The TC33D (24 hrs demo) he has on the lot has been quoted to me for $17700 and includes 4WD, Foldable (noisy) ROPS, Deluxe 3PT, Std axle and industrial R-4 tires, and 7308FEL. Says he might move a little. Also mentioned in earlier conversations that he needs to get rid of it soon or will have to start paying for it. Now the silly part, I really like the looks of the LA14 MUCH better, although, I think performance wise both are probably equal. Talked to an out of town dealer and he quoted a TC33Da equipped the same but with LA14 @19400, also said he could move a little. I know it's probably a small, unimportant thing about appearance and no matter what, I would be happy with either but down the road, I think the new style loader will be worth more if I sell. I know I'm supposed to be able to get this price under $19 but will see. NH 60" mmm is quoted @$2500 additional. Seems like most people I talk to want or wish the had the mmm. Primary use for the machine is going to be loader work but resale is the mmm a plus or minus?

GerardC · Apr 17, 2004

If I like it, I buy it. I never think about "resale", ever! Your gonna "lose" no matter what, so I say why think about it. I would get the one that is of most use to you now and worry about selling when the time comes. Who knows, you may never sell it! /forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif

MikeBurr · Apr 17, 2004

Just traded my 2001 33d for a new 33DA, yes, I do like the new loader better and some other things. Mid mower, I use a rear brush hog type mower and have never used the mid pto for anything. The loader seems a little faster and handles a little more load. Have fun which ever way you go.

OkeeDon · Apr 18, 2004

One of the reasons I bought a TC18 instead of a used TC33D was because the TC18 had the 12LA loader. The 12LA has nearly the same capacity of the 7308, and was far better than the old 7306 that used to come on the category I machines. The new 14LA loader should likewise be far better than the 7308 in terms of lift capacity, etc. After having the 12LA, I would definitely spend the extra money for the 14LA. But then, I'm good at spending outher people's money... /forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif

gbpackerfan · Apr 18, 2004

Cedarman NH is a great choice. One can rationalize himself into or out of anything. If most people are like me I always suffer buyers remorse on any large purchase for a few days. No matter how much homework I do I always question the choice I made. However, that remorse always subsides much, much quicker if I buy what I think I want. I am usually a lot happier too. My vote goes to the 14LA.

JoeTC33 · Apr 18, 2004

I recently bought the TC33D with 7308 FEL and 72"mm. I have put 28 hrs. on it with both mowing and loader work. The 7308 has done everything I have asked it to do. I like the 72" mm because it sits outside the tires and makes it easier to mow close to objects. I believe the 72"mm was $2800 so just slightly higher than the 60". I paid $19,200 for tractor and loader but mine had Supersteer which was an extra $900 so I would think you can get the $17,700 price down a few more hundred. Good luck and blue is great choice!

cedarman · Apr 18, 2004

Have you had to take the mower deck off yet, I'm wondering how much of a job it is to get it on and off? I've read on other forums that some machines you have to tie up an arm when the deck is removed, is this the case? Also, I'm reading the $19200 you paid didn't include the 72" mmm, right? Just tractor, fel, and supersteer. Are you happy with the way the machine mows? Thanks to all for the posts and advice. Will be talking to the salesman tomarrow and update my journey.

Magnum · Apr 18, 2004

The new series (A)tractors have a heavier duty front axle to accomdate the higher lift capacity loaders. The curved boom loader has some advantages in lift capacity, reach, and visibility. If you want the ultimate setup get the quick coupler on the front and you can quick disconnect the bucket when you are mowing or in tight areas, along with using all the compatable front attachments. Since compact tractors are often a 30 year investment, moving up to the newest technology may warrant some consideration. Good luck and enjoy your tractor!

p.s. you can snug up the bolts on the ROPS pivot point to reduce the ROPS rattle...

cedarman · Apr 19, 2004

Talked to my local dealer and here is his faxed quote: New TC33Da Tractor $19,550. This includes hydro, 4wd, Foldable ROPS, deluxe 3pt, R-4 tires, tilt/tele steering, std axle, 14LA loader, 60"hd quick attach bucket and joystick. I don't think we are very far apart and I'm getting tired, not to mention anxious. Will talk about getting a tooth bar, couple of more rear hydrolic outlets and loaded tires(which he recommends). When I asked him what they loaded them with he said calcium chloride. Had a friend who had that and had to get new rims but don't know how long it took to do that type of damage. He stated shouldn't be a problem for many years and the valve stem would be where it showed up first. Read some earlier threads and took what Andy said to heart about loading tires for safety. What do you guys think about calcium chloride?

DocHeb · Apr 19, 2004

An alternative is Rim Guard, made from beet juice - just as dense, non-corrosive, and doesn't kill plants if it leaks out. The disadvantage is it may be difficult to find in some areas. Do a search on "Rim Guard" and you"ll get a bunch of hits. Generally I'd say the dealers that have disparaging opinions on Rim Guard don't have it available at their shop.