looking at first tractor

flifisher · Feb 7, 2011

Hi, After seven years of cutting pasture with a 48" riding mower I've decided to join the big leagues and buy a real tractor! Money is pretty tight (DUH) but I think I can find a good older tractor in the 50hp range.
I have enjoyed reading advice on buying and look forward to showing off my new toy, when I find it.
Luckily I really enjoy working on anything mechanical and have a large workshop to fix and tinker on my toys, as I am just finishing the r.v. conversion of a 36' bluebird schoolbus, (3208 turbo diesel if you were wondering) I need to get this tractor to keep the projects going

Muhammad · Feb 7, 2011

Welcome to TBN.

Egon · Feb 7, 2011

Welcome.:thumbsup:

CompactTractorFan · Feb 8, 2011

Welcome to TBN!!! That's a big step up going from a 48" rider to a 50hp utility tractor...:thumbsup:

jlsmith · Feb 8, 2011

Where are you located, there are alot of great people on here and will be glad to inform you of their great dealers depending on where you live.

bp fick · Feb 8, 2011

I'd be tired of bumping along with a back breaking riding mower over that many acres.

A rear finish mower will change your life, man. Happy shopping on the tractor. There are so many good deals out there on used. Sad to say, folks get themselves in a pickle, or, times just change.

New? Thanks another ballgame altogether.

flifisher · Feb 9, 2011

Thanks for the welcomes!

I happily reside in the great Pacific Northwest, Concrete Washinton to be exact, 1-1/2 hrs north of Seattle.

I have seen lots of good deals, but I have am trying to be patient and get the right tractor for me, i.e.

1. 50-60 h.p.
2. 2 wd with locking diff, Flat property with good river bottom soil
3. Live pto, still figuring out the pto options
4. A loader, must have for chores, hauling hay firewood etc
5. Good tires
6. Diesel, there is a diesel station 1/2 mile up from here:thumbsup:
7. Attachments, brush hog at least, anything else icing on the cake
8. Minor leaks ok. dont mind cylinder seal replacement but major block or
tranny leaks not ok
9. Age and parts availability looking at ford, mf, case, prefer '85 and newer.
10. Relatively low hours
Well, guess not asking for much:laughing: but I know my deal is out there.

Anything else I should be thinking about?