Comparing NEW Tractors

There are some fairly obvious benefits in buying new. You are not buying into any potential nasty surprises of a machine that is in need of expensive repairs. You also have the security of a manufacturer's warranty. The minimum you will see in the industry these days is 1 year and 2 years is often available.

Another advantage is access to more modern technology which offers you greater safety, performance and comfort.

Some of the features that you should look for in a new machine compared to an older refurbished machine are:

• Power steering for easier handling.

• 2 stage clutch for more control of drive train and power take off implements.

• Spark arrestor style muffler for reduced fire risk.

• Larger, more comfortable seats.

If you are looking for a 4-in-1 bucket loader with a new tractor you should aim to get:

• A self levelling feature which reduces contents falling out when boom is raised for increased safety.

• A quick release bucket and frame so the front end loader can be removed if required.

• Larger lifting capacities due to the more robust nature of the new tractors available.

Of course you will pay more up front for a new machine. However, it is worthwhile to consider that the ongoing running costs of a new tractor should be less due to the likelihood of fewer repairs.

Also it is important to be aware that with the improving quality of products manufactured in China, there are some very cost effective brand new machines available.

Having said this, do your homework and establish that the product has decent backing in Australia. If you decide to go for a Chinese made product, find out how long the product has been available in the country. If the importer has been supplying the same brand tractor for a number of years, it is a good sign that the product is standing the test of time.

Most importantly check on the spare parts availability. Ask the dealer to show you the spare parts sheet for the model you are interested in, where the parts are stocked and how long it takes them to get them in.

With the right backing, most small acreage lifestyle farmers should expect to get a lifetime of service from a new machine.

Comparing REFURBISHED Tractors

Refurbished tractors require the most clarification and are usually machines that have been used in the Japanese market mainly to cultivate small rice fields. They are generally light duty compared to the tractors intended for the Australian market - even for small acreage farms.

When these tractors have finished their useful life in Japanese rice fields, they are shipped to a low cost country such as Vietnam for basic repairs then sold in Australia.

The light duty nature of these tractors mean they have limited capabilities when accessories such as front end loaders are retrofitted.

Typically these tractors are around 15 - 30 years old. The refurbishment typically involves the following:

• Gearboxes are checked and new oil supplied. New bearings are fitted as required.

• Clutch tested and replaced if necessary.

• Brakes tested and repaired or replaced if necessary.

• New or near new tyres are fitted.

• New seats are fitted.

• New batteries are fitted.

• New radiators are installed.

• New Roll Over Protection Systems fitted.

• The tractor is re-painted.

Engines are usually pulled down and new pistons, rings, bearings and gaskets are fitted as this is a relatively simple task. This strip down and replacement with new parts classifies the engine as reconditioned.

It is important to note that this does not mean that the tractors are 'fully reconditioned' or 'remanufactured' in the true sense of the words.

The gearbox and clutch are more complex to pull down. Therefore an operational test is performed and if it passes, it is deemed ok. Accessories such as hydraulic pumps, alternators, starter motors etc are tested but not reconditioned either.

This means that there are elements of the tractor that are simply unknown. It may function perfectly ok at testing, but may be close to failure.

As there is some risk with this, the purchase cost of a refurbished tractor is lower than a new tractor. This makes them a good option when working to a very tight budget. Typically you get a limited warranty of about 3 months.

Comparing USED Tractors

Used really falls into two categories. there are the machines that have been used locally and those that have been used on the Japanese market.

These used tractors from Japan are different to the refurbished tractors for one key reason. They are considered to be of a high enough standard to not requiere the overhauling that the refurbished units receive.

These tractors used to be readily available in Australia. However, as the Japanese economy has been doing it tough for some time, Japanese farmers have been tending to hang on to these better used machines rather than selling them off.

Again, there is the risk associated with the unknown history of a machine. But the upside is they come with a basic warranty as they are sold through importers / dealers.

When it comes to buying a machine that has been used locally it is certainly possible to pick up a bargain but the principal of 'buyer beware' certainly holds true. Remember if you buy privately, there is no warranty and you are on your own!

If you have the technical expertise and the time available to make repairs, then a used tractor is a more viable option.