Steps to buying a new or used tractor

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by: Robert Tate
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Word Count: 492
Date: Sun, 20 Dec 2009 Time: 7:57 PM
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Tractors are used to complete a wide range of agricultural tasks. However, not every tractor is capable of doing every task. Tractors come in different sizes, with many different features. There are heavyweight, compact, and small tractors.

How the tractor will be employed determines which tractor is the best deal. Another factor will be how much experience the person has operating and maintaining farm equipment. Personal finances certainly will be a major factor in the purchase.

The first step to purchasing a new or used tractor and its accessories is simply deciding which is the right type and size to get the work done. Any tractor that is not the right size will become costly and becomes highly inefficient. Additionally, the wrong sized tractor could become a safety hazard.

Several web sites offer online assistance with choosing the right sized tractor for each type of application. Texas A & M University has published a catalog, called "Revegetation Equipment Catalog." Two Extension engineers (Paul Summer and E. Jay Williams) from the University of Georgia have created an informative publication titled "What Size Farm Tractor Do I Need?" Ewald, Inc. has produced an online buyer's guide, called "Tractor Buying Facts" which assists with choosing the right tractor for each project.

The next step is to decide whether to buy a new or used tractor. Each has its advantages and disadvantages. A new tractor costs more, but is more apt to have updated safety modifications. It will need very little maintenance and repairs. This means not losing productive work time due to equipment failure. However, a new tractor can easily become a financial burden, especially if the intended work is not completed for some reason.

On the other hand, used tractors may or may not have safety modifications. They are more likely to need repairs and require more maintenance than newer models. Unless the individual is an adept mechanic, these repairs may become expensive. However, used tractors may be more within the budget, especially when adding many accessories.

Once the decision of new or used tractor has been made, the next step is to find the tractor. There are many resources, online and offline which can make the search much easier. Many sites like EBay, CraigsList, and TractorHouse.com list all types of new and used tractors for sale. These types of sites also permit you to post want ads.

The main thing to remember is to purchase a tractor that has safety features, especially Rollover Protective Structures (ROPS), PTO guards, lights, and seat belts. The greatest dangers of operating a tractor are from rollovers, runovers, collisions and getting caught in moving parts (National AG Safety Database). These types of tractor accidents have caused many deaths and injuries. Take precautions and do everything to avoid becoming one of the statistics.

About the Author

Robert Tate - Region Sales Manager of Mascus UK. Mascus is an electronic marketplace for used trucks, trailers and tractors. Mascus makes trading in tractors for sale more efficiently by collecting all information about supply and demand in one place. All dealers, producers and end users are welcome to offer their used machines and trucks for sale via the marketplace.

Contacts:

Robert Tate

Regional Sales Manager - UK

Mob:+ 44 (0) 7970 230055

E mail: robert.tate@mascus.com