Picking the Right Tractor
Tractors have been an essential part of the farming lifestyle for decades now, redefining efficiency and productivity on farmlands. If you’re not familiar with tractors, you might think they’re all one and the same. But if you’re going to be a serious member of the farming community, you should know that this isn’t the case. Choosing the right tractor can be just as difficult as choosing the right car, so if you’ve never done it before, it can be a little intimidating.
Here at Morgan Power Equipment, we want to help you pick the right tractor for your needs and your budget. We’ve provided some starting points below, but to get an up-close look at our tractor models, stop by our location in Halifax, Massachusetts, near Brockton.
Think about the Implements
One of the easiest ways to narrow down the pool of possibilities is to consider what you’ll be using your tractor for. Tractors are often made differently so some people get all they need for their work while others don’t waste money on features they’ll never use. Smaller tractors are perfect for mowing large lawns or small fields, but you’ll want something bigger if you need your tractor to haul trailers or pull heavy equipment.
You can also upgrade your tractor with accessories, like spreaders or rotary tillers. Just make sure your tractor can handle the upgrades. Look for the power take-off, or PTO, which is the drive shaft that powers other equipment. You may also find a series of hydraulic pumps that transfer energy back into the accessory. You should at least have a drawbar for towing. If these things don’t exist on your tractor, you may find it’s not going to be of any use to you and you’ll want to move on to another model.
Tractor Size
As you might have gathered, the size of your tractor plays an important role in the choice you make. Subcompact tractors (20-30 hp) are perfect for simple tasks or for smaller properties. They’re still capable of heavy duty projects and can be equipped with loaders, backhoes, mowers, and tillers. They have a range of power options that will help you pick the perfect size without compromising on performance.
For slightly larger properties, you’ll probably want a compact tractor (25-60 hp) that offers more transmission, PTO, and hydraulic options, as well as strong and sturdy enough to haul heavier loads. Also keep in mind your storage space. The bigger the tractor, the harder it is to keep covered from the elements when it’s not in use.
The Numbers Matter
Horsepower is just as important in choosing a tractor as it is in choosing a car. It won’t translate into speed, but rather power, so the more you expect from your tractor, the higher the horsepower needs to be. You’ll probably want a tractor with more powerful PTO rather than looking for a big, bulky engine. Your hydraulic systems and drawbar ratings will require similar consideration so don’t forget to look at that as well.
Picking a Manufacturer
Your final step is to consider the manufacturer. Even if you have a favorite, make sure it’s going to be worth the money. You’ll need a tractor that’s durable, long lasting, and low maintenance. Not all manufacturers hold up to this standard. Plus, you’ll find better working tractors are more productive and give you a higher yield. The initial price might be a little higher than other tractors, but it will save you money in the long run to invest in something good.
Here at Morgan Power Equipment, we recommend Mahindra to all our patrons. They’re the perfect blend of productive and dependable and we have some in our showroom right now so stop by our location in Halifax, Massachusetts today to take a look for yourself. We also welcome patrons from the area of Brockton.