Thanks guys. So does it make more sense to up the ante to 8-9k on an older used one or just go all out and spend the 13-15k on a brand new one? I realize 5-6 grand is a lot, but going from a 1990 model for 8k or an 07 for 13k is a lot too. A friend just got a new Deere 2305 (4wd 24hp) with loader, mid mount mower, tiller for under 15k (a few months ago).

 

New is almost always cheaper unless you have all the cash in your pocket...finance rates on new tractors is pretty good!

Come to think of it...I might have just the thing for you new...at least give you something to think about

Back in a bit!
Chris

 

I looked at little at new ones and that would be awesome. It seems like there is more hp in the same size new ones than there used to be (but I guess vehicles are the same way). I see 0% for 36 months, anyone ever do 0% for 60 or 72 months?

 

we have a massey and it has been a great tractor. we use it for work around the house and to clean the driveway off in the winter.

 

Not really...but neither does most of what AGCO considers competition...so they try to be competitive with them, and nor waste their money buying down rates...that, and I'm not sure if the finance sompanies will even let them buy down the rates that far out, too much uncertainty!


I also looked at what I have here...we have some MF tractors that are in storage (dealer went out of business, so they brought them here) and I thought one was a 1523 (23 Eng HP), but it's a 1528 Hydro (28 HP) and they are a bit more money! So with a mid mount mower, you;ll be looking at somewhere around $15,500. Not what you're looking for!

And the Deere 2305 is what we call a Sub-Compact...and I'll bet I could compete with that price on one of those...22hp, loader, mower, and tiller/bush hog! The only problem with those, is they don't really like the bush hogs...a lot of weight to start spinning for a small tractor

BTW, I'm just ball parking numbers!
Chris

 

I stopped by a Deere dealer on the way to the fair. They have a new 2305 24hp with loader and 62" mower for $13,900 w/o talking them down any.

Is a flail mower much different from a bush hog and can the small ones handle them ok? I won't be cutting anything crazy with it, but not sure if I will have it all as lawn.

 

If you look around, you can probably get a Kubota BX22 or BX23 with a loader, 12" backhoe, and mowing deck for a similar price. To give you an idea of the power of these little tractors, I've attached a sample of what if can do.

 

I cut 7 acres with a 72' International Cub w/ a Woods 59 mmm. That thing is only 11 hp and the grass is 6 - 8 inches tall and its thick and it'll run threw that with out any problem. Granted the blades need to be kept sharp and the underneath of the deck clear of grass build up. So I would think even if you go for something in the high teens, as far as hp wise, you'd be fine.

 

my dad bought a cheap tractor ONCE.

then, he bought a Ford/NH with power steering, power brakes, and all that stuff.

now, his wife can work the tractor, and he can work the shovel, position implements and all that stuff.

she can sit in the tractor all day, instead of them swapping places every time it gets tricky.

he said that saves hours, and makes them both happier working outside.

it made all the difference their ability to enjoy working on their property.

 

I've found a Kubota B8200 with 5' bushhog and a Ford Golden Jubilee with small loader and 5' bushhog. Asking price on both is $2000. The Ford needs painted, but has more power and the loader, but is much older (1953 model) and somewhere around 30hp gas. The kubota looks good, but need a spring for the pedal on the hydrostat tranny to get the pedal to come back to neutal and is an ~86 model and about 19hp diesel.

 

I wouldn't want a tractor without a loader, so I'm not sure about the 'bota. The Ford price seems about right, but check the hydraulics. A buddy of mine who is pretty knowledgeable got taken on a used tractor. The hydraulics seemed fine when he looked at it, but they turned out to be so tired that he couldn't do any work with it. It cost him an extra grand to get it fixed. Put it to work on a test drive. If the owner balks, run.