Looking for a tractor replacement

[Randy G.]

Currently I have a 1981 2940 4wd open station 7860 hrs. I want a cab tractor with heat and ac, 4wd, pto, front loader, 3 pt to use a 7' rear blade for snow, ag tires, rear hyd, etc. I basically want a smaller version of my 2940 with a cab capable of taking care of my acreage. I'm not familiar with newer small utility tractors so need direction towards a good dependable model. Your suggestions are welcome.

 

[Tx Jim]

I won't recommend a JD 50 or 55 series utility tractor with a cab. The AC & wiring on those models leaves a lot to be desired? When I served as a JD service manager I thought the wiring schematics on those model tractors with cabs resembled a spider web & the printed circuit board was known for poor connections. Also the master/slave cylinders to operate clutch can be a pain to bleed air from the them. I own a '11 Kubota M7040(64 pto hp) MFWD , hyd reverser with FEL that has given me good trouble free service for 1900 hrs

 

[Steve in IL]

Any thoughts on your budget?

 

[Randy G.]

Depends on my trade in allowance.

 

[B. White]

Just an opinion, since I'm no expert, but do the research on any model interested in and figure out what year they started using proprietary software on a dealer's laptop to troubleshoot or reset/reprogram engine control modules and computers. Stay away from them. Spend less on something anyone can work on, if necessary. I found out the hard way on a 2020 with an ECM error code. I've ran into several folks who have worked for dealers of several brands and it is a big complaint from all of them, plus crappy wiring and switches as mentioned above.

 

[Jim.ME]

Just an opinion, since I'm no expert, but do the research on any model interested in and figure out what year they started using proprietary software on a dealer's laptop to troubleshoot or reset/reprogram engine control modules and computers. Stay away from them. Spend less on something anyone can work on, if necessary. I found out the hard way on a 2020 with an ECM error code. I've ran into several folks who have worked for dealers of several brands and it is a big complaint from all of them, plus crappy wiring and switches as mentioned above.

What 2020? Guessing that is a year. I understand it looks like you are making a general statement, but the Brand and model would be helpful.

 

[B. White]

What 2020? Guessing that is a year. I understand it looks like you are making a general statement, but the Brand and model would be helpful.

Yes, general statement in regards to any brand with an ECU. Mine happened to be a 2020 NH Workmaster, but have heard the same thing about the others. I knew how crazy electronics were on cars, but it was a big shock going from older to newer tractors. My problem ended up being relays that needed to be replaced, but only could tell that by dropping at the dealer and waiting on them to hook up the laptop. There was a service bulletin that replaced these relays for problems, but my S/N wasn't included when I checked.