AssetTrader Buying Guide to Tractors

Introduction

Tractors are an immensely important agricultural tool, and are synonymous with the farming industry. It can be argued that the versatility of tractors can often be overlooked, and that in fact, they hold the potential to perform a wide array of tasks.

It is important to ensure when purchasing a new or used tractor that you seek a model which is suited to your specific needs. Asset Trader has compiled a range of information and tips to assist you in making an informed choice about your new purchase. This is important, as for many, a tractor will be a piece of equipment which is relied on everyday for a great number of years.

Functionality and Use

The main features of tractors overlap in cases with the features offered by skid steer loaders, backhoe loaders and some excavators. However, these tend to perform more specialist tasks. However, with regards to surface impact, tractors, when equipped with the right kind of tyres, are able to work on certain surfaces without creating a large level of damage.

Before visiting a tractor dealer, it is well worth having in mind an idea of the tasks you expect to be performing in your ideal tractor, as well as the attachments and the level of horsepower required. Horsepower proves to be one of the clearest boundaries between tractor models and states what work the tractor can perform exactly, as well as what attachments it can power.

The lower end of the market is dominated by tractors of 25HP or less, and although these vehicles are capable of completing most basic landscaping and lawn work, they are unable to provide an adequate level of power for more demanding tasks. The middle ground of horsepower in tractors sit at between 25HP and 65HP and this includes tractors which are most suited to many commercial uses, such as stables, and small farms. The highest end of tractor horsepower features tractors of over 200HP, but the standard larger size is around 665 HP. Such tractors are designed for rigorous agricultural use.

It is important to aim to purchase a tractor with just the right level of horsepower, as too little means that you are limited in the types of attachments that can be used with the vehicle, and too much means that there is potential ground damage.