What to look for when buying a Compact Utility Tractor

Whether you just moved to your rural retreat, or you’re considering taking on a few more chores, you’ve probably decided it’s time to think about a new compact utility tractor. To help give you the information you need to make the best buying decisions, the tractor experts here at PrairieLand Partners John Deere have put together a few tips. 

The first steps. 

The first step in choosing your utility tractor is deciding on the chores you expect it to handle, both now and in the future; that allows you to narrow your choices down to a particular horsepower range. From there, you and your PrairieLand Partners Sales Professional should consider the size of your property, the comfort and convenience features you’d like, and, of course, your budget. 

A few questions to consider:

■  How much power do you need? Having a little more power than you think you need is better than not having quite enough.

■ Which transmission fits your skill level? Utility tractors are available with a variety of transmission types, from automotive-style manual shifters on up.

■  Two-wheel drive or four? Light-duty mowing may only require two-wheel drive; for heavier chores in rolling ground, MFWD may be the way to go. Four-wheel drive is commonly referred to as “MFWD,” for mechanical front-wheel drive.

■ Which implements will you need? There are hundreds 
of implements and attachments available from John Deere and PrairieLand Partners, from rear blades to rotary cutters. Your choice of implements will affect the tractor you need.

■ What are your comfort and convenience requirements? If you’re working in the dead of winter or heat of summer, you might consider a closed, climate-controlled cab. If your chores are more “fair-weather” or you enjoy fresh air, you may only need an open station model.

■  What about regular maintenance? A tractor should do chores, not be a chore to own. Consider the frequency, type, and ease of scheduled maintenance.

Once you and your PrairieLand Partners salesman answer these questions, you’ll be well on your way to selecting the right utility tractor model.

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