Tractors are the most vital need of a farmer, be it a small farm or a big farm. It helps farmers increase their productivity and lower their manual labor.
Buying a tractor for your small farm is an important decision; therefore, you need to consider a lot of factors before getting one. You need to make sure that your hard-earned money is invested in the right model.
Endurance, long lasting performance, ample productivity, safety, and comfort are a few necessary features a tractor should have. Models like the John Deere 420 tractor come with these facilities and are a good choice for small farm owners.
To give you a clearer idea of how to choose the right tractor for your small farm, mentioned below are some of the necessary factors. Let’s check them out-
The size of the farm
First and foremost, to choose the right tractor, you need to know the size of your small farm. Generally, a small farm tractor between 35 to 70 Horsepower(HP) is ideal for performing all agricultural tasks.
Moreover, along with the farm size, make sure to consider your future needs as investing in a tractor should be cost-effective.
Tasks you need the tractor for
The next thing to consider while getting a tractor is to shortlist the tasks your tractor will perform. Whether you need it for mowing, snow removal, the cutting road to your property, hauling items like hay bales, feed bags, mulch, gravel, etc.
You should also keep in mind the lifting capacity of the tractor. Your tractor should have enough lifting capacity to run smoothly throughout the day.
Horsepower
Horsepower is a crucial factor while buying a tractor for your small farm. Currently, manufacturers use two different types of ratings to measure the tractor’s power- PTO Horsepower and Engine Horsepower.
Budget
This goes without saying. You need to fix your budget first to get your own tractor. Depending on the flexibility of your budget, you can select the features and additional components of your tractor.
Having a fixed budget will also help you avoid any unnecessary confusion.
Operation time
Operation time is yet another vital factor to keep in mind while buying a tractor. For instance, if you will be spending five to six hours on your farm, your tractor should have a machine strong enough to last that long.
If you buy a tractor that is too cheap, it will take double the time to finish a single task and ultimately will cost you more in the future.
Engine
The engine is one of the prime factors while choosing your tractor. The power of the engine will decide the capacity of your tractor.
The engine decides the horsepower of the tractor, its lifting capacity, and the type of work it can handle.
Hydraulics
A tractor’s work involves a lot of lifting and moving. The hydraulics system in tractors makes this possible. The system’s fluid transmits energy and allows the tractor to move and lift things.
Additionally, the hydraulics system is also responsible for controlling heat transfer and lubrication. Therefore, an optimal hydraulics system is essential to consider while buying a tractor for your small farm.
Safety features
Considering safety features while buying a tractor is of utmost importance. Don’t buy a tractor that does not come with a rollover protective structure (ROPS) and seat belt.
Tractor rollovers are quite common incidents, and having this safety feature can save you from getting crushed under or being thrown away from the tractor.
Consider hitches
It is quite common to use your tractor with other equipment attached. This is why you should get a tractor with the right hitch type.
Tractors nowadays come with different hitch types, which allows you to attach different equipment. Moreover, with the help of the right hitch, you can lower or raise any equipment easily. Hitches also let you attach front-end loaders and forklifts.
Comfort
You’re going to spend quite a lot of time in your tractor. Therefore, you definitely don’t want a tractor that is too uncomfortable to sit and operate. A comfortable tractor should have these mandatory comfort features-
- Proper design in operator’s platform
- Enough space between fenders and pedals
- Seat and steering wheel adjustability
- Panel light visibility
- Fine condition in handholds
- Control accessibility within normal reach range
Conclusion
Here is a round-up of the factors you should consider while getting your small farm tractor. Hopefully, these tips help you get the right tractor to perform optimum farming work with comfort and safety.
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