Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
and might need to be replaced. If you feel your tractor tires need more weight for traction
or stability, there are some new nonsalt products available that your tractor dealer can order
for you. Weight can also be added with wheel weights.
Front tractor tires can be purchased in the price range of truck tires, approximately $50
for two-wheel-drive tires and $80 to $90 for four-wheel-drive tires. However, rear tract-
or tires will be somewhere around $125 per tire used or $295 new. When considering a
tractor's price, therefore, don't overlook the condition of the tires, as it may greatly affect
whether you are getting a good deal.
Two-Wheel Drive or Four-Wheel Drive
Although a substantially priced option, four-wheel-drive (4WD; also called 4x4) tractors
are becoming more popular because they provide added traction in ice, snow, and mud and
during rough or hilly work, and they tend to hold their resale value better than two-wheel-
drive (2WD) models. The extra weight of the front axle mechanism in 4WD tractors helps
to even out weight distribution, which increases balance and stability, increases pulling
power, and adds traction for the use of a front-end loader. If you opt for a 2WD model,
look for one with a differential lock that locks the rear wheels together (like PosiTraction),
which will help keep you from getting stuck.
Power Steering
While manual steering is fine for long straight lines, if you are maneuvering in tight spaces,
as you would when cleaning pens, power steering is very handy.
Age
Don't be overly concerned about the age of a tractor. Because we have become accustomed
to buying a new car or truck every so many years, we often look at other vehicles that way
too, but with tractors, that is false economy. If it runs and is paid for, the extra age of a
tractor just adds to its character. And the quality of workmanship is really fine on most
older tractors. There are a lot of very usable, good tractors from the 1950s and 1960s. Just
be sure that parts are available for repair.
Good equipment retains its value and in some cases actually appreciates. In 1948 a
brand-new 8N Ford was sold right off the showroom floor for $900. That same tractor is
worth $2000 today.
Wear on tractors is measured by hours of engine operation rather than calendar age. If
you're buying a used tractor, try to purchase one with fewer than 5000 hours on it.
