Re: Did you ever get the Massey??
Woodbeef,
Yeah we finally got it delivered on December 20th - Merry Christmas to us. Here's the info I had been posting on the "Buying New Holland TC45" discussion, when we were still thinking the Boomer. Bigger is definitely better.
"Got the 8x2 synchronized transmisson with 4WD. Live PTO with the dual clutch. We both felt better with that set up. Folding ROPS and side exhaust let's us get it into the garage. The loader is the 6 foot MF1050 and the mower is the Woods BB 72. Did not think we needed to go for the shuttle on the transmission even with the loader. Total price for every thing was $25,000 including tax and that also includes tires loaded with the Calcium Chloride mix and a tank of fuel. I think we did okay. I was able to calculate the gross price based on information I picked up at the OSU Science Review from the product reps and also piecing it together from the info I could find on the State of Minnesota website, which several of the members referred to in the forums. Anyway I got more HP, more lifting capacity as well as the mower I really wanted.
If I added the price of a Bushhog mower in with the last price of the NH package I posted it came up to $23120 including tax. So for $1880 more the wife and I are happy and feel safer with our new toy. We'll post our exploits on the Massey Ferguson forum as we they develop."
Also right before I had it delivered I had the dealer throw in a 6 foot scraper blade for grading the gravel driveway and plowing the snow. We have a 1500 foot driveway at the farm. When the dealer drove up with the whole set up, he said he looked at the blade and tire width and said we should have a 7 foot blade instead. Didn't jump the price. Said to go ahead and enjoy it on him. Nice dealing with the local folks.
Anyway I've had a chance to use it to grade the crown down on the driveway and even plow some snow last week. I think I'm doing okay for a rookie. Took it up through the fields in the snow to get a feel. Took it nice and easy and was able to do really well in 4WD and Lo Range. Just have to watch the sideways even on a gentle slope. But so far we're having a good time with it. Have put about 4 hours on it so far. More fun lies ahead. Stand by for further exploits. Thanks to all you guys for helping with the decision process.
Big Ern