Tiller How big should I go? Topic is 3 pt Rototillers.........

[blackrams]

I have a Ford 1210 three cylinder diesel, hydrostatic 4wd drive, turf tires. If I remember correctly, it's 16 horse.

Have been looking for a rototiller for my hobby passion. Have found a bunch but, most are much bigger than I think my little tractor can handle. I'm thinking 36" to 42" width at maximum. Appreciate any thoughts or advice on this. The last thing I want to do is go too big and have a tiller that I can't use.

Thanks in advance.

Rams

 

[Z-Michigan]

It depends on your soil conditions and expectations. Tilling 2" deep in sandy loam that's already disturbed is easier than trying to go 6" deep in hard clay with sod.

Unless your soil is firmly in the easy category, I think 36-42" is the right place to look.

 

[2458n]

Think your looking at the right size. That small makes finding one a little harder, but demand will be less then for a 5 ft. + model. You do not have to do it all at once. Take a light cut to kill off weeds and go back with a deeper pass later. You will like it. Sure beats walking behind a tiller.

 

[blackrams]

It depends on your soil conditions and expectations. Tilling 2" deep in sandy loam that's already disturbed is easier than trying to go 6" deep in hard clay with sod.

Unless your soil is firmly in the easy category, I think 36-42" is the right place to look.

Appreciate the feedback.

The soil in central Kentucky is definitely not sandy loam, tends to be good black soil but, there is quite a bit of clay. Depends on where you're at. Had some "top soil" hauled in a couple years ago. Needed a void filled. Turned out to be almost all clay. Yes, it came from a local source and I almost sent it back but, needed to continue with the project. Have regretted that decision ever since. That soil will barely grow weeds. Will be getting some river black soil delivered to put on top of it and then want to till it in and add some sand to it.

That's one of the reasons I'm looking for a tiller. Again, thanks for the response.

Think your looking at the right size. That small makes finding one a little harder, but demand will be less then for a 5 ft. + model. You do not have to do it all at once. Take a light cut to kill off weeds and go back with a deeper pass later. You will like it. Sure beats walking behind a tiller.

Yeppers, finding one that isn't worn out has not been easy and a new one really isn't in my budget but, will keep looking. I whole heartedly agree with your statement about walking behind a tiller. Not my idea of a good time.

 

[RSKY]

I would get the smallest that will cover your tracks. You can always go slower or make two passes if you need to. As with using a bush hog I feel that wider and slower is better. Everybody I have ever talked to that bought a tiller narrower than their tractor has regretted that purchase.

RSKY

 

[fried1765]

I have a Ford 1210 three cylinder diesel, hydrostatic 4wd drive, turf tires. If I remember correctly, it's 16 horse.

Have been looking for a rototiller for my hobby passion. Have found a bunch but, most are much bigger than I think my little tractor can handle. I'm thinking 36" to 42" width at maximum. Appreciate any thoughts or advice on this. The last thing I want to do is go too big and have a tiller that I can't use.

Thanks in advance.

Rams

Be absolutely certain to get a tiller that will cover your tracks.
Probably the best buy out there for your use, is the 48" "Tillovator" from Agri Supply.
You can check it out on the Agri Supply website.
48" tillovator ......Agri Supply item # 30265 .....#1389.99 + shipping (you actually may have an Agri Supply store within driving distance).
The Agri Supply people are GREAT folks to deal with!

 

[Sawyer Rob]

You didn't say whether your tractor has 16 engine hp or 16 pto hp?? That makes a big difference...

Anyway, I run a 42" Howard with my 12.5 pto hp tractor and it runs it good. I wouldn't want to go wider than that though.

Howards are a heavier built tiller and have more tines per width than many of the cheapo tillers, so that takes a bit more hp too...

SR

 

[aczlan]

You didn't say whether your tractor has 16 engine hp or 16 pto hp?? That makes a big difference...

Anyway, I run a 42" Howard with my 12.5 pto hp tractor and it runs it good. I wouldn't want to go wider than that though.

Howards are a heavier built tiller and have more tines per width than many of the cheapo tillers, so that takes a bit more hp too...

SR

We run a 60" Kubota tiller behind our B7500 (16PTO HP, HST transmission) and it handles it well, you have to go SLOOOOW if you have it buried in the dirt.

Aaron Z

 

[bigtiller]

I see on tractor data that your tractor is 42" wide with 13.5 pto hp.
I would shop for a 42" tiller, I think it's the best fit for size and performance.

TractorData.com Ford 121 tractor information

 

[Fallon]

If you find a good deal on one that is to wide, you could just try it. If it's to much for your machine, remove a row of tines...