Choosing the Right Tractor

There's no denying a tractor is one of the most important tools on an acreage. From moving snow to mowing the grass, from digging holes to hauling loads, the uses are endless. And with such a large investment, you'll want to know exactly what you need before signing on the dotted line. Here are some tips to help you select the best-suited model and some features to consider.

Consider your property

It's important to think about the number of acres you own and to account for any land you plan to buy in the future. Buying an appropriate tractor up front is often more cost effective than upgrading a short time later. To ensure your equipment can grow with your property, consider your future needs. Will you need to till a large garden? Do you plan on working with horses or livestock? Are you planning to use the tractor to mow the lawn? Since certain jobs require specific attachments and horsepower, answering these questions will help provide you with the greatest long-term value.

Sizes and configurations

With the number of affordable used tractors on the auction lists and dealer lots diminishing, many acreage owners are considering buying new. "Used utility tractors are very expensive -- you won't find any bargains," says John Nowatzki, ag machine systems specialist with North Dakota State University Extension. "Tractors hold their value."

And the benefits of new tractors of all sizes are attractive. Not only are new tractors safer and more fuel efficient, they're being sold in a wide variety of configurations that fit most every need. Features that once only appeared on high-horsepower models are now offered on smaller tractors, including on-the-go shifting, full cabs, and higher-flow hydraulics.

In many cases, subcompact tractors (roughly 20 to 30 hp.) are capable of tackling the jobs on your property. Most manufacturers offer a range of transmission and hydraulic options, as well as smooth three-point hitch operation and easy PTO control. With implements available -- including loaders, backhoes, mowers, tillers and more -- subcompacts are useful for smaller properties with lighter tasks.

Moving up in size, compact tractors (roughly 25 to 60 hp.) and utility tractors (roughly 40 to 70 hp.) are capable of doing even more, with added transmission, PTO, and hydraulic options, as well as heavier loader lift capacities for a wider range of tasks.

Transmission and horsepower

Transmission options

A mechanical transmission has long been the norm, but has recently given way to a hydrostatic model. A mechanical transmission is very similar to the selective gear transmission in a car or truck. The operator uses a shift lever to select a specific gear, which tells the tractor to maintain a constant ground speed for a constant engine speed.

Most transmission models have two gear selector levers. One allows for on-the-fly shifting between a few gears, meaning the gear can be changed while the tractor is moving. The second lever chooses the gear range, but can only be shifted when the tractor is at a complete stop.

A hydrostatic transmission does not have a lever to select specific gear ranges. The advantage is that any tractor ground speed can be chosen between zero and the maximum speed. This feature would be useful in light mowing operations where the implement power is low and the need for operating efficiency is very high. The major drawback to a hydrostatic transmission is that it is much less efficient than a mechanical transmission, which results in a significant increase in power loss.

Horsepower types

When studying a tractor's horsepower, you should carefully consider the type of horsepower measurement being stated by the manufacturer or dealer. Two ratings are used to define tractor power: Brake (or engine) horsepower and PTO horsepower (the most common).

"The brake horsepower is what is put out by the engine without loss caused by the transmission and other components," explains Nowatzki. "The PTO horsepower is the power that is available to operate equipment from the PTO shaft."

Different implements require certain PTO horsepower, so knowing the tractor's PTO rating is important when you are sizing an implement to a tractor.

Hydraulics, three-point and front-wheel assist

Hydraulics and three-point hitch

"Hydraulics are high up on the list of options when buying a tractor," says Nowatzki.
With the pull of a lever, through the science of fluid dynamics, hydraulic systems allow the tractor to perform tasks the operator physically can't do, including operating implements, steering, and breaking.

A three-point hitch is also important, as it is used to pull and operate implements behind the tractor. Implements attach to the three-point hitch using three movable arms, which are connected to the tractor's hydraulic system to provide lifting, lowering, and tilting capabilities. "For example, most rear-mount mowers operate this way," says Nowatzki.

Front-wheel assist

Most everyone is familiar with the common two- and four-wheel-drive configurations -- it is, the engine delivers power to either two or four wheels simultaneously -- and many tractors on the market today have these capabilities. Similar to four-wheel drive, a front-wheel assist feature is common on compact and utility tractors that have front and rear tires of different sizes. When front-wheel assist is engaged, it provides a mechanical drive to the front and rear wheels. Without front-wheel assist, a tractor may resist turning, and the front tires may slide. With front-wheel assist engaged, a tractor will pull itself around turns with less skidding of the front tires. Though it's a great feature, the addition will cost you.

Dealer service

Last but certainly not least, consider your access to local tractor dealers, as you'll likely be working with them for the life of the tractor. Also, consider your training needs for tractor operation, ongoing maintenance, and advanced service. This may be the deciding factor between buying a new tractor with a warranty and greater reliability or a more affordable used tractor that will require occasional repairs.

Buying a tractor is a big investment, so do your research and choose the model that will best suit your needs. With the many advances in tractor technology, you're likely to find one that can help with every chore.

Diagrams

Operator's platform

A properly designed operator's platform should provide comfort and safety. The following are features to look for when examining that area.
A. For comfort, make sure there is sufficient open space between the pedals and the surrounding fenders.
B. All controls should be easily accessed within the normal range of motion.
C. The seat should be adjustable from front to back, and up and down.
D. All panel dials and lights should be easily visible from the seat. An adjustable steering wheel helps.
E. Handholds on both sides of the stairs add stability in slick conditions.

Rear componentry

To the untrained eye, the equipment on the back of a tractor can be intimidating. This diagram breaks down features used for attaching implements, including the PTO, hydraulics, and three-point hitch components.
A. Power take-off (PTO)
B. Hydraulic coupler
C. Hydraulic cylinder
D. Draft link
E. Lifting link
F. Compression link