Help select right tractor, right arm slight disabi

newhorse2 · Mar 31, 2006

We are buying first tractor ever, have right arm limited use, thumb & forfinger, some power but not much. Use it everyday with my horses, and take my pain pills after!

Do we go gear or hydro, just because of no shifting ease. ?
We've looked at JD 790 4WD w/FEL $14298, and the new 3203 for $16034--then at suggestion of friend, the New Holland TC30, at $15800 gear, or $17000 HST-4WD w/FEL??

Don't want to go into too much debt, the new Holland does have better financing rates than JD.....

What would you recommend for first time tractor owner, wife would have to learn!

Bob_Skurka · Mar 31, 2006

I have severe RA under constant treatment by a specialist so I can empathise with you. Brand is less important than function in my book. Definately go with HST transmission. And go with a more modern design than either the NH TC30 or the JD 790 because those don't have the ergonomic design that newer machines have. Look for a tractor that 'fits' you, some have fender mounted front loader controls and that may be easier for you to reach/manipulate. Others have loader controls that are mounted on the loader and those may be a harder reach. Also look for other little things like the New Holland "turtle/rabbit" control that is on the loader lever of some of their models, other brands have a similar feature, but it gives you greater control of the machine and is as simple as pushing a button with your thumb.

There are plenty of bargain tractors out there, but in your case I would strongly avoid them. Bargain machines, while they may be strong and reliable, typically do not have the features that YOU will find useful given your reduced right arm function.

Adjustable lower links are a help, but I'd spend the extra $200 and buy an aftermarket set of "Pat's Easy Change" 3pt connectors if you are going to be swapping a lot of implements and one of them is a post hole digger. If you are not using a post hole digger, then get one of the other brands of Easy/Quick Hitch systems (available from most any dealer).

Look for a suspension seat and an adjustable/tilt steering wheel. The suspension seat will take some shock out of your body on bumps (tractors do NOT have shock absorbers). Some tractors have steering wheels that you can tilt and/or adjust in multiple ways. That little thing may be the difference between you being able to control the tractor with one arm or not.

I will say that both New Holland and John Deere have some of the best ergonomic designs of any brand I know. Both brands impress me greatly for some of the design details and features they include that are simply not on other machines. Kubota outsells both JD and New Holland combined, and I own a Kubota, but I have to tell you that in your case I'd seriously look at the New Holland TC29 or TC33 and the JD3120 and JD3320 machines. Kubota would have B7800, B3030 and L2800, L3130 and L3400 machines in the same ranges as you are looking at. The B7800/L2800/L3400 machines are basic and I would rule them out given your circumstances. The B3030 and L3130 are deluxe machines but I beleive both of them are lacking in ergonomic convenience when compared to the New Holland TC29/TC33 or the JD3120/3320 machines.

Bird · Mar 31, 2006

Most newer tractors have power steering that's easier to turn than a car's power steering, and like Bob said, go with the hydrostatic transmission and both you and the wife should find it easy to operate, regardless of which brand you buy.

BillG_in_TX · Mar 31, 2006

Bob,

How about a PT-425 for this gentleman? Seems ideal for his circumstances and needs.

To the original poster - here's a link to the Power Trac web page for the PT-425. Also, look down the list of forums for the Power Trac discussions. And don't miss MossRoad's PT-425 page. /forums/images/graemlins/cool.gif

Bob_Skurka · Mar 31, 2006

Bill that might be a very good idea. Honestly I'd want to go over a PT425 very closely for ergonomics before making a recommendation to someone who had a disability. I know the hydraulic drive system is going to be easy to operate, I'm just not sure about the position and reach of the controls, and the problem is that unless he knows someone who has a PT or takes a trip to Tazwell, he will have to buy it without testing it. I couldn't recommend that in this case.

Bear in mind that with a disability in the arm, reach to the levers may be uncomfortable and use of the hand may be an issue. That is why I suggested some specific models over other models. The TC30 and JD790 are pretty cramped. The TC30 loader control is loader mounted, the 790 is mounted (in my opinion) somewhat awkwardly and it is difficult (for me) to exit the right side of a 790. Further I don't think the 790 has HST as an option (but it might), even if it does, the 790 is not even remotely as ergonomically friendly as a TC29, TC33 or a JD3x20 series.

KiotiJohn · Apr 1, 2006

( have right arm limited use, thumb & forfinger, some power but not much. )
Newhorse, is the problem in just your thumb and forefinger, or the whole arm? Is this a lack of a thumb and forefinger, or just inability to use them? Anything with a thumb operated device may be a little hard to manage, but I'm not clear on this.

I sure think HST would make it all a little easier on you.

Don't limit your search to just a few brands as there are other reallygood tractors out there, and many have very good financing programs right now.

Check out all that you can, Kubota, Mahindra, Kioti, Montana, Farmtrac and many more.
John

JerryG · Apr 1, 2006

A PT might have to be ruled out because of no dealer support. I know that we sometimes take for granted that we can work on our tractors. Depending on the extent of the disability dealer support could very well be a factor.

Bob_Skurka · Apr 1, 2006

( A PT might have to be ruled out because of no dealer support. I know that we sometimes take for granted that we can work on our tractors. Depending on the extent of the disability dealer support could very well be a factor. )

Jerry that is an excellent point. Dealer support may be a bigger issue in this case than in some others.

Also, in this case I was pretty specific about tractor choices that I recommended and I was that way for a reason. Normally I don't get into a lot of specific features but in this case I feel compelled to do so. For example I like the fact that on the 3x20 JD tractors there are some very easy to use controls for things like cruise control, 4wd and PTO. In fact to engage the PTO on those tractors there is a simple knob on the dash. On most other tractors there is a long throw lever at your side, that lever has been known to 'stick' going into 4wd or coming out of 4wd. Not an issue for someone with full mobility, but perhaps an issue for someone without it. In particular I like the 'turtle/rabbit' switch on the NH loaders (optional feature) but it offers a great deal of control with the ease of a low pressure switch. Not a feature found on most brands. But it might be very helpful in this case. Another uncommon feature is the swivel seat found on the NH. A very nice feature, but it is not on most brands, and when you have limited mobility and need to turn around it is "priceless!" (see the attached photo).

No question I am a big fan of Kubota, their reliability is higher than any brand I know of. I simply don't know of any ~30hp tractors that have some of these little touches offered by NH or JD. While most brands will have cup holders, glove holders, etc, and while those are handy, I am trying to focus in on features that really will make the tractor easier to use. As I have advanced RA, I can speak to some of these things as things I love having, or wish I had.

I am not going to presume ot know which things will matter more than others. I'm just pointing out that these features are often overlooked and may be the difference between the tractor being a comfortable easy to use tool and a pain in the rear that he will reluctantly and painfully use for many years to come.

As stated earlier, the JD iMatch, Pat's Easy Change or some other Quick Hitch would also be high on my list of add ons, no matter what brand was purchased because they are far easier to use than 'extendable' lower links on a 3pt.

MossRoad · Apr 1, 2006

Welcome to TBN! /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

I know a PT425 could be a choice.

Some pros are no gears, super easy changing of attachments, easily modified and very cost effective.

If your right arm has limitations, any tractor with a right handed joystick will be an issue to address, so the brand that fits your strength and range of motion will be very important. The beauty of the Power Trac is everything can be changed or modified by anyone with a welder, some wrenches and some hydraulics.

For anyone, disability or not, Power Trac does not have a dealer network and this has to be known before purchase. If you can do your own maintenance and repairs and enjoy that kind of work, it is a great choice. If you have trusted engine and hydraulic shops in your area, they can do any work for you if you chose that method. Several folks here do that. Power Trac also has some of the best phone support and parts delivery of any company I have every dealt with. You could even ship the thing back to them for work if you wanted, but that would be $$$ for shipping.

However, some folks just want or need dealer support for all kinds of reasons. If that is a requirement for your purchase, a Power Trac is probably not going to suit your specifications.

One other note is a PT425 has a tunnel that you have to step over. If you have leg troubles, that could be a problem, but so can steps going up.

Lots of choices out there.

Hey, wasn't there a post somewhere here on TBN that had links to some sites that modify tractors specifically for folks with physical limitations and needs? Anyone got a link to that?

kozak · Apr 1, 2006

newhorse2,

Welcome to TBN !!

As Bob Skurka has indicated, the NH Boomer Series of compact tractors is an excellent choice from the ergonomics built into the operator platform. However, the TC30 I believe does not have the deluxe features you will be looking for. If you consider NH you will want to look at the "DA" series of tractors such as TC29DA or TC33DA.

As Bob mentioned, these series of tractors have a built in Hi/Low speed adjustment button on the FEL joystick handle. From your post, not sure if you have or do not have thumb & forefinger function on your right hand. If you don't, this is still not an issue for changing hi/low speed as there is also a toggle button on the righthand controls mounted on fender that serves the same purpose. On the lefthand controls (fender) you will find the levers for putting tractor in gear (hi & low speed) as well as putting the tractor in 2WD or 4WD. A little bit confusing the way I have stated it, but overall you have 4 speeds to choose from. Left lever in low or hi speed & then right button on joystick or fender controls for additional hi/low speed. Definitely go Hydrostat.

The power brake lever is also mounted on the left floor by the seat. You will need to operate this lever quite often however can start tractor with it disengaged as long as brake pedals (left) are depressed.

Quick attach feature for FEL is a must. Do not have to get off the tractor to change lets say from FEL to forks & best of all of course, no tools required.

The supersteer option is also nice especially for FEL work as you will do far less steering / moving tractor back & forth for alignment. The other benefit of supersteer is the auto sensi-track feature. I have never needed to put my tractor in 4 wheel drive as the sensi-track features does it automatically for me. So just leave it in 2 wheel drive all the time. However, SS is expensive & not absolutely required.

Curved front hood on the NH series makes front visibility much better than lets say a Kubota.

If you don't like blue you can also always go red & visit Case dealer as all these options are identical on their "DX" series of compact tractors.

Good Luck On Your Hunt.

Vic

JerryG · Apr 1, 2006

I think that PTs would be an ideal choice for some that have a disability, but without dealer support it could create a real problem. If a person could find a shop that would be willing to work on all aspects of the PT then that would elevate that problem. I was by no means to cut the unit down. May aspects of PTs lend themselves to ability modification much easier than a typical tractor.

MossRoad · Apr 1, 2006

I was by no means to cut the unit down. 

I know that, Jerry. /forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif No need to clarify your statements as they were 100% correct. Especially this one...

 without dealer support it could create a real problem. 

The key word there is "COULD". If you can't fix it yourself, don't have someone that can fix it for you, don't want to fix it yourself, or don't want to ship it back to PT for repair, then I'd say maybe it isn't the brand you should be looking at /forums/images/graemlins/tongue.gif. I always make sure folks know this when ever I suggest they consider a PT. As with anything, research, research and then research some more before you make a big purchase, like a tractor. /forums/images/graemlins/laugh.gif

Anyone find those links to those handicapped modified tractors, yet? I think one had a wheel chair accessible operators station on the rear, didn't it?

KiotiJohn · Apr 1, 2006

( In particular I like the 'turtle/rabbit' switch on the NH loaders (optional feature) but it offers a great deal of control with the ease of a low pressure switch. )
My dealer had an NH out his place to sell used and I tried it out. It had that feature as well. So easy to engage the faster speed range there on the joystick or on the fender by just toggling a switch.
Even with no thumb it would not be hard to engage the joystick button from what I remember of it.
John

JerryG · Apr 1, 2006

Anyone find those links to those handicapped modified tractors, yet? 
If you run a search on Google for "AgrAbility", you will get a lots of those types of sites. Sorry, I didn't know that anyone had ask for those sites or I would have said that before.

MossRoad · Apr 1, 2006

Thanks, Jerry! /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif That's one of the one's I was looking for. http://www.agrability.org/

newhorse2 · Apr 2, 2006

As I am new to this forum and computer info highway, I've tried to reply to some of your messages. ALL ARE GREAT.

We are going to go the HST way, though have to look at the NH TC29/33 and DA models yet. Dealer service is a must for us. The JD new 3203 was quoted at a reasonable price with our AQHA membership discount, and it is not too big.

Will be using a post hole digger for fencing, so hopefully we can fit it all into a small budget.

Hopefully this makes it to post so you all know that I have read and am going on your advice! This is a great site for beginners and the experience shows....

daTeacha · Apr 3, 2006

Case is essentially the same machine as NH except supersteer is not available. If you have a Case dealer nearby, you might find you like red better than blue.

If it isn't too personal, how much can you move your right arm? Most 3 point controls are a lever on the right fender requiring several inches of motion to fully raise or lower implements. Loader controls are typically mounted either on the fender or the loader itself, again on the right side. I think a good dealer/hydraulics shop should be able to put together some loader controls that mount on the left side of the loader. I don't know about moving the 3 point controller. It seems there is probably a way to adapt a tractor to your needs. There is no shortage of old time farmers with varying degrees of injury to arms and hands who still run tractors, my FIL being one. He had a staph infection that limits his right arm to about 45 degrees of movement at the shoulder and still runs his Ford 5000 around with the loader and bush hog on it. He's 81.

For everyone else, maybe it would be helpful if we could post pictures of each platform area similar to the one showing the swivel seat. Then the location of controls with respect to the seat would be apparent and newhorse would have at least a basic idea of what might work, thus saving a little time. Not that there's anything wrong with visiting tractor stores and sitting on machines. /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif It just might let him decide which ones to visit first.

newhorse2 · Apr 12, 2006

Can move right arm, have nerve damage in tendons from wrist, the forarm itself is aggrivated by nerve damage, scare tissue, so I control with pain meds. Right thumb and forefinger are only two with some power. Can't lift with right arm , have become left handed over the last 13 years...

Looked at the NH33DA -very nice, allot of extras. We are leaning towards the JD 3203 --as the price with FEL, 60" HD Bucket is $16183 vs $18800 quoted on the NH TC33DA with 14LA loader. Though the NH has better finance rates now... I think the 32 HP/24 PTO HP will do just fine for the property we have to work with. The 2nd JD dealer we went to was great to work with, and thier service dept has long time employees of 10 to 25 years. The NH dealer, not too comfortable with, and is farther away 35 miles, they would charge to haul tractor if a problem during warranty?

I am going to go with the Pat's Easy Change instead of the JD I-match, so I can use with other mfg attachments, and a post hole digger.

Even though there is not allot of reviews on the New JD 3203 , we are going to chance it based on the comfort, location of the loader joystick , leg room , AQHA discount and the 2nd dealer....Will send pictures when we get it!

THANKS AGAIN....

kozak · Apr 12, 2006

newhorse2,

Congratulations on a fine pick of a TRACTOR. Just checked it out on the net. Can't go wrong with a Deere & at the price you got it for versus the NH.....very nice !!

Will be looking forward to pics.

Vic

KiotiJohn · Apr 12, 2006

Congratulatios on getting to a decision. I'm happy to know that you found something that will be comfortable for you to use, and of course, both tractor brands are good ones.

Looking forward to seeing pics when you get your new helper home.
John