Martin Tractor, Inc.
(309) 365-2031
There are many factors to take into consideration when buying a tractor... price, condition, size, horsepower, attachments, etc. With this guide, we hope it will help you through the buying process so you can make an informed decision that will work for you and your property!
Decide What You Want to Accomplish
You're not just buying a tractor; you're investing in a tractor for saving time and money. So, ask yourself, "Self, what do I want to do with this tractor?" Let's start by making a list of every chore, job, or projects that come to mind. Just knowing what you want to do with a tractor will help you make the best decision with the right size and options!
Here are some common jobs you might need to do:
- Build a fence
- Till a garden
- Mow your lawn
- Remove snow
- Grade and level a gravel driveway
- Move dirt
- Landscaping
Choosing Attachments/Implements
Now that you know what you want to accomplish with your tractor, make a list of attachments and/or implements you will need for each job. With your chore/job/projects list, which ones are most important to you that will save you time? Pick a few and then you will be able to see which attachments and/or implements are essential to those jobs. Since all attachments and/or implements have requirements, like horsepower or hitch category, you will want to make sure you're picking out the correct tractor and attachments/implements.
Features & Specs
When choosing which tractor you want to buy, make sure to think about all the places you need it to go. For example, measure the building you want to store it in, will it need to fit in-between fence posts, or other areas around your property that might be a tight squeeze. Another thing to think about is weight. Just because these tractors are compact doesn't mean they are lightweight! If you do a lot of driving around your yard, it will leave tire marks. For example, if you are going to use this tractor for mowing, maybe look into smaller tires. It will help!
Let's talk 2WD vs 4WD. Obviously 4WD works better on wet ground or on hills but they are more expensive BUT they also will hold their value. With 2WD, they work great for mowing, hauling and some light tilling.
How about the transmission? Depending on the jobs you're trying to do, the transmission can make a HUGE difference! Non-synchronized gear transmissions require you to come to a complete stop before clutching to change directions. Now, if you're going to be in forward gear most of the time, then this transmission will work great. If you're going to need to switch between forward and reverse often, a synchronized gear, shuttle or hydrostatic transmission is what you'll need.
While comfort may not be your first priority when tractor shopping, it should be considered. If you're going to use this tractor all year long or extended periods of time, some of these comfort features will go a loooong way! Adding a cab is one of the best ways to stay comfortable with heat, A/C and most importantly, protection from the elements. And let's not forget cruise control! If you plan on using your tractor for mowing and it could be hours at a time, having cruise control will make a difference.
Finally - Picking the Tractor for You
With going over what you want to accomplish to choosing the right attachments/implements to thinking about what features and specs you would like, I'm sure you have a pretty good idea what you're looking for in a tractor. Below is a list of compact tractors that we offer, along with a couple specs. Click on the series link for more information.
John Deere 1 Series
- Horsepower: 23-25 HP
- Hitch Type: Limited Category 1
- 2WD or 4WD: 4WD
John Deere 2 Series, 3 Series, 4 Series
- Horsepower: 25-66 HP
- Hitch Type: Limited Category 1, Category 1 or Category 2
- 2WD or 4WD: 4WD