![]() ![]() Are they topped off and clean? Are there dates on the filters indicating a change and do they correlate to what is written in the log book? It might even pay to have an experienced mechanic accompany you. Fluids can tell you a lot about machine care. That could be an indication of haphazard operation or even abuse. Check to see if safeties have been disabled. that might lead you to believe more hours are on the machine than indicated by the hour meter. ![]() Inquire what implements have been run on the tractor as well as how many operators have had access to the machine. Find an owner with a detailed logbook and a well taken care of property – those are signs pointing the right direction. You’ll want to establish a baseline price using or a similar source and you’ll also want to have your financing in order so that when you find the right tractor there are no delays that might cause a good deal to slip by. You’ll need to have done your homework and know what machine fits your needs and terrain. ![]() Maintain the tractor by the book, don’t abuse it, give it a coat of wax periodically, and you should be rewarded with long life and a satisfactory ownership experience.īuy a used tractor from a private entity and not a dealer and that expertise will not be part of the equation. When you take delivery, the dealer should go over every aspect of operating and maintaining the tractor and not leave until you are completely confident about safe operation. SATISFACTORY TRACTOR MANUALThis is an excellent opportunity to get familiar with the owner’s manual from cover to cover. When the paperwork is taken care of, the dealer usually needs time to attend to last minute details. Once you’ve decided on a tractor, negotiate, but remember the dealer has to make a profit and paying a little extra for one that will attend to your needs before, during, and after the sale is well worth it. In some circumstances this might not be possible, but if it is, take advantage of a ride on your terrain. As you narrow your search and begin to get serious, we like to see a test drive on your property. ![]() Remember, ostensibly you will own the machine for some time to come and you won’t want to be second guessing yourself down the road. The test drive is the perfect time to pay attention to ergonomics and how comfortable you feel on the tractor. Once you settle on a model or two, a test ride will be in order. Based on that assessment, the dealer will make a recommendation or possibly several. The dealer should take time to learn your exact needs (current and future), inquire about your property (or if possible, visit it to visually understand the scope), and determine what your budget is. In the case of a new machine, you’ll be purchasing from a dealer who should have a thorough understanding of what the tractor is capable of and what it is not. Which is right for you? Read on and we’ll cover some of those things that will help you decide.Ī tractor is a big ticket item and the up-front purchase price is a large part of the cost of ownership, though operating and maintenance costs are also important factors to consider. Are you in the market for a tractor and like the idea of saving a few bucks on a pre-owned machine but wonder about what maintenance woes you might inherit? On the other hand, a new model might cost more, but there are those manufacturer incentives like zero down and extended no interest or low interest terms. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |