Hydrostatic vs shuttle shift

[psyched123]

I bought and enjoyed a shuttle shift 38hp tractor 19 yrs ago, but I'm 78 and thinking I'd like to end my days with a new tractor. Most now seem to be hydrostatic. I just talked with my brother-in-law who has both transmissions and he recommended staying with shuttle shift. I do some mowing and he says his hydrostatic gets way too hot when mowing. He likes it when doing dirt work and moving hay, etc. but not for something where you'll be driving it steady for a long time. It seems the dealers around here are mostly pushing hydrostatic. What's your experience?

 

[DonRybak]

I too am getting ready to hit 79 in a couple months and love my hydrostatic. I have never noticed mine getting hot when mowing but I mow pasture once or twice a year and with horses the grass isn't that tall. I do move round bays of hay every week or so and the hydro really shines there. So I guess really the answer is what tasks will the tractor be used for the most.

 

[mikester]

I prefer hydrostat over shuttleshift...But there's a catch

I would not buy a purely mechanical hydrostat. E-hydrostat is the only way to go IMHO. I wish I had cruise control for mine for mowing.

My hydrostat throws a lot of heat in summer. In winter the cab is very comfortable. Get the A/C if you have a cab.

I strongly recommend a test drive and seat time to make your decision. Not all hydrostats are made equal and some are weak and gutless and undesirable as a work machine and on hills.