Looking to upgrade from my JD 4100....suggestions?

[imq707s]

I have a JD 4100 that I picked up a few years ago from my father at a great price when he ended up moving and not needing it any more. I've had it for around 3 years now, it's a 20-ish HP diesel with a 52" belly mower on it, 4wd, and a gear transmission. I used to brush-hog, mow, and move some dirt around every now and then. The one thing I wish it could do was move 4x5 round bales around, but it's just not big enough......so I've finally decided to upgrade. In addition to being a little to small, I absolutely HATE the gear transmission on it.....especially when mowing, and moving dirt around in tight places with the box blade I have. The gear always grind when I shift unless the tractor is at a complete stop....and it's a real pain when you are wanting to change directions a lot. And the fact that it doesn't have a FEL really stinks also...what would really come in handy.

So....I've decided to upgrade. I want something that's at least 35hp, 4wd, has a FEL, has enough power to run a 5ft brush-hog, has a hydrostat transmission, and more some 4x5 round bales around.

So far in 3 years, I've put less that 10 hours on this thing.....if that gives you an idea of how much I use it. I have 6 acres, so that's not really much land to work.

What brands of tractors should I be looking at? Is a JD or Kubota worth the extra money over something like a Mahindra or NewHolland?

And suggestions or info would be great! Thanks!!

Also...what do you think my 4100 with 700hrs on it is worth? It's been stored inside since new....and had a pretty easy life.

 

[bspeedy]

Welcome to the forum.

Wow - 10 hrs in 3 years...

For that infrequent usage, I'd get an old farm tractor with a loader for 5-7 grand. Anything will do. Not sure why the convenience of HST is important for 3 hours per year of work.

If you just WANT a tractor and have tons of cash rattling around in your pocket, any of the major brands should suffice. I do recommend JD or Kubota, maybe Massey. Those brands will give you the best resale in 20 years when the tractor has only a couple hundred hours. Also, parts availability will be there in 20 years.

Tractorhouse.com is a great resource for tractor values. Look up your model and take 10-20 percent off their (usually) ridiculous asking prices.

I really don't recommend using any piece of equipment for only a few hours a year. Machines are happier when they work, not sitting. Heck, my log splitter and troy bilt rototiller get more hours than that per year, and they sit most of the time. If you do leave it sit a lot, keep a battery tender on the battery, store it inside - preferably in the dark, and keep the mice and other critters out / off of it. Change the engine oil annually. Watch hydro fluid for signs of condensation.

More information about other tasks you may do will help with recommending specific tractors.