The Basics of Buying Tractors

All you have to do to see the attraction of buying a used tractor instead of a brand new machine is to compare the prices. Look at the price of a new model and then do a bit of search for the same model (or similar) for sale used, and it's likely that your eyebrows will rise and your jaw will drop at the same time!

Even for the most experienced of farmers, the brand new market for tractors often appears to neither be a particularly sensible, or realistic, option. But what if you're a complete rookie, a complete tractor novice who knows next to nothing about tractors? This blog sets out the basics - the key factors you should consider as a prospective buyer of a used tractor.

The key factors to consider when looking at used tractors for sale

For the uninitiated and the inexperienced, the process of finding a suitable used tractor can at first appear to be quite challenging and bewildering.

The good thing about the internet and sites like tractorsforsale.co.uk, is that you have lots of choice right there at your fingertips. But with that, it sometimes seems like there's too much choice! It can be difficult to sieve through all the information, specifications, and technical jargon to find out what you really need to know. Here are some of the basics:

How powerful should a tractor be?

As a general rule of thumb, models up to 25hp should be ideal for general activities such as mowing, but not heavy brush conditions. A tractor between 26hp-65hp is best suited for environments such as nurseries and smaller farms. For heavier farming uses, such as hay bailing, a 66hp-200hp machine is suitable. For commercial farming, machines of over 200hp are recommended.

What terrain will the tractor be used on?

You should bear in mind the type of terrain that you intend to use the tractor on. If landscapes are hilly or are of clay soil type then you might need a bit more horsepower.

Three-point hitch and PTO

You should really ensure that a used tractor for sale has a three-point hitch and PTO (Power Take-Off). The PTO enables the engine of the tractor to power implements that you attach to the tractor. PTOs come in varying RPMs - a 540 RPM will cover most typical needs.