Important Tips for Buying a Used Compact Tractor

Whether a company is growing, diversifying or simply upgrading what they already have, every business has numerous reasons to add new equipment to its fleet. 

It’s never been a better time to buy a used tractor, especially in the lawn care and landscape industry. Over the past few years, most manufacturers have seen double-digit increases in new tractor sales — causing manufacturers like John Deere to invest time and money into making compact tractors more efficient than ever before.  

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These upgrades are not only encouraging new sales, they also generate trade-in opportunities from early buyers providing even more choices for those seeking low-hour, pre-owned machines. For companies looking to add to their fleet, used equipment continues to be a financially viable option. 
 
The influx of available options may seem perfect for used tractor seekers, but not all used machines — or sellers — are created equal. It’s up to the buyer to properly research, vet and investigate a potential purchase. 

Whether you’re a seasoned used equipment buyer or you’re brand new to the game, here are five tips to consider to ensure your compact tractor ends up as a solid investment. 

Starting Your Search 

There are many avenues to explore when shopping for a used compact tractor. Whether it’s newspaper classifieds, websites, auctions or your dealer, finding the perfect machine to meet your needs can be easy. 
 
The online world is constantly evolving, and finding exactly what you’re looking for is becoming easier almost every day. Websites can update their inventory at the drop of a hat, ensuring customers are always seeing what they have on hand at any given time. RDO Equipment Co. team members work hard to provide an inside look at the history of their used equipment.  

Online shopping also gives customers the opportunity to research options and make comparisons between two or more models. With information being so readily available, even those who plan to buy their used tractor at a brick-and-mortar dealership can gain confidence in knowing they’ve done their homework. There’s even an opportunity to stop by your local dealer to talk to a salesperson and see what is on the lot. 

Newspaper and other printed listings are still options for starting a used tractor search but keep in mind that most will direct users to a website with up-to-date information on available machines. 

Vet the Sources 

Buying a quality, trustworthy used compact tractor starts with finding a quality, trustworthy seller. But how do you separate the good dealers from the less-than-desirable?  

Like the used car business, seller reputation is key in the used tractor business. 

Unlike buying a used car where the complete background details are available and easy to find, used tractor buyers tend to have to dig a bit to find the information they need. Whether it’s a private seller, auction house, dealership or other outlet, do some research into the history of the seller. Look for red flags such as bad peer reviews, unethical business practices and even records of stolen equipment. 
 
If you’re thinking of buying through a private seller, keep in mind their goal is to sell the tractor — regardless of whether the unit makes sense for the buyer. An equipment dealership typically has a large inventory and experts who can help a buyer determine which unit is the best fit. Not only do dealerships have a vested interest in a happy and satisfied customer, building a relationship is also a great opportunity for the buyer to purchase parts and receive service on the machine down the road.  
 
Auctions, while abundant with large inventories of tractors, also come with the biggest ‘buyer beware' warning. Companies that struggle to sell used tractors on their own often look to auctions as a last-ditch effort — making the quantity great at the expense of quality.  There’s also no recourse for buyers who end up with a tractor that has hidden problems. 

Timing Is Everything 

The agriculture industry's seasonal factors affect both used tractor availability and price. Manufacturer programs typically begin near the end of March and run through June, increasing the trade-in activity. Used tractor seekers can also capitalize on end-of-season sales where attractive offers on new equipment mean more trade-ins and more options. 
 
Smart buyers also stay up to date on what’s happening in the industry too, as market trends often dictate the potential swing in pricing. Keep an eye on auction prices, new equipment sale prices and other online used equipment prices. Watching the ups and downs and keeping a pulse on the industry can help secure a timely purchase. 

Machine Details 

You’ve found the right make and model of tractor and you’ve vetted the seller. You should be ready to buy, right? 

Not exactly. Conducting a thorough investigation of the used tractor prior to purchase is essential to ensure you’re getting a quality machine. 
 
Ask to see a full evaluation, including hours, records of maintenance intervals and complete history of the machine. Be sure to get detailed photos that include both general shots of the machine and those that document major repairs and significant work done so nothing comes as a surprise. 

In addition to reviewing paperwork, do a visual walk-around inspection when possible. Check for leaks and look for signs that maintenance has been neglected. Signs of wear are normal, but cracks and rust are concerning and could lead to bigger problems down the road.  
 
Most reputable sellers will allow a potential buyer to test out a machine, and when you’re working with a dealership like RDO, test-driving your options is encouraged. 

While operating, look for black, white or blue smoke coming from the engine, listen for strange noises, feel for rough operation points, notice things that just don’t feel right and ensure the overall functionality of the unit. It’s also a good idea to bring along another expert or talk to a salesperson on the lot to spot key things to look for and possible deterrents in a quality machine. They can even answer questions you may have about running the compact tractor or things to watch out for.  
 
In order to get the best value when buying used equipment, it’s recommended to look for a tractor three years old or older. Experts generally agree that, at three years, the higher cost you’d find with new equipment is no longer a factor.  
 
Warranty is still attached to the tractor after three years, too, making buying used that much more attractive. Some manufacturers also offer five- or even six-year warranties, so even some older pre-owned tractors may still have warranties remaining.

Post-Purchase 

The final tip for success continues long after the machine has found its new home.  

As with new equipment, ongoing maintenance and care is important to protect the investment and extend the life of a used tractor.  

Too often, buyers neglect or simply forget about regular maintenance, but even just a little effort can go a long way. 

A good preventative maintenance (PM) program can include:

• Visual inspection of the machine before starting, paying specific attention to cracks, leaks and other red flags. 
• Check and refill fluids.
• Grease crucial points.
• Regular check of the engine — including air and fuel filters.

In addition to regular PM, tractor owners are advised to schedule a thorough service inspection every year with their trusted local dealership. 

So, you’re in the market for a new tractor. Maybe you need an upgrade, or you’re looking for your first tractor and need a place to start. Whatever your situation, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of tractor buying tips to help you get started.

When Should You Buy a New Tractor?

There are many reasons you might need to buy a farm tractor, whether you’re expanding your operations or simply need a new machine. You may also be looking to replace an old machine. Signs that you will need a new tractor soon include:

• Your current tractor has worked 12,000 hours or more.
• You need to replace engine parts often.
• New technology is available.
• New parts are increasingly unavailable for the model you have.
• The scope of your work is changing and you need new equipment to keep up.
• You’ve increased your acreage or livestock.

If you’re looking for your first tractor, rest assured that you have plenty of options available. Learning as much as possible about tractors and their uses can help guide you toward your best fit.

Types of Tractors and Farming Equipment

If you’re shopping for your first tractor or haven’t bought a new one in a few years, you might want a quick refresh on what type of tractor can best help you maintain efficiency and productivity. While there are dozens of different types of tractors, implements and heavy agricultural equipment, here are some common variants you might find useful on your farm.

• Combines: Also known as combine harvesters or forage harvesters, combines provide several different capabilities, including harvesting, threshing, gathering and winnowing. As the name suggests, this type of equipment “combines” many functions into one machine to help you efficiently harvest crops.
• Wheeled tractors: Also called utility tractors, wheeled tractors are excellent for streamlining tilling, planting, spraying, and many other farming practices. These general-purpose tractors come with a range of lifting capacities to accommodate land management, small-scale crops and specialty farming applications. 
• Track tractors: Track-type tractors move on a continuous track rather than tires, giving them excellent traction. These tractors are efficient, easy to maneuver and can withstand a range of conditions, even on wet soil. Tracks also decrease compaction by displacing the weight of the tractor over a larger footprint. 
• Hay equipment: Small farms and commercial hay producers can both benefit from hay equipment solutions. Hay balers cut and compress bales of hay into easily transportable shapes for farmers and ranchers. Hay rakes collect hay, prepare it for the balers and keep it dry and speeds up the baling process. Hay swathers cut hay and other small crops and form them into windrows to dry out.
• Attachments: The variety of farm attachments and implements you can use with tractors drastically increases the versatility of your machinery investment. Attachments like mowers, seeders and tillage equipment allow you to accomplish more tasks with a single piece of machinery.
• Sprayers: Much like spreaders but intended for liquids, sprayers are pieces of farm equipment that make it easy to apply pesticides, herbicides, nutrients and fertilizers across acres of land.

What to Know Before You Find a Dealership

Whether you need to upgrade your current tractor or are just getting into farming with heavy equipment, you might not know where to start. With so many different sizes, models and options available, it can take a while to to find the right tractor for your job. Here are some steps we recommend to streamline the process.

1. Do Your Research

While dealership etiquette is similar, shopping for a tractor is different than shopping for a car. For one thing, tractors last years, even decades, longer than the average car. As long as you keep up with regular maintenance and proper use, you could even use that same tractor for the rest of your life.

That’s why the first thing you should do when buying a tractor — or any farm equipment — is to conduct plenty of research. You want enough time to weigh all your options before buying your first tractor to make the best choice, while understanding that farms operate 365 days a year. Often times farmers are rushing to find quick solutions. Using your local dealership’s expertise will help you quickly find the most efficient solution.

Asking around is a good place to start because experienced farmers and tractor enthusiasts can tell you what you need to know, from red flags to look out for and any quirks specific models may have. Googling, reading product reviews and consulting with dealers should be your next step.

2. Create a Priority List

While you’re researching, make a list of everything you need the tractor to be able to do. Consider these factors when buying your new or used tractor as your deal breakers. 

Next, list everything that would be nice to have but isn’t completely necessary by forming a “needs” vs. “wants” list. Things like an enclosed cab or a specific transmission system come to mind. Additionally, while it can help to know about brand specifications, it’s better to focus on your own goals for the tractor. 

3. Determine Your Budget

When calculating your budget, you should also factor in additional costs like repairs, add-ons and implements. Research what each dealership in your area charges for specific models and compare the prices you find. This method is beneficial when you already have a particular model in mind, but it can also help you determine the most reasonable price.

4. Consider Your Property and Tractor Needs

Once you have a budget in mind, you can begin narrowing down your search for a suitable tractor. An effective way to find the right one for your needs is to consider the specific ways you plan to use it on your property.

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Will you be doing fieldwork, plowing, hauling, towing or cultivating crops? If this is your first time buying a tractor, you may not know all the different ways you can utilize it. Be sure to discuss all your farming needs with your dealer.

You’ll also want to think about the type of property you will use your tractor on. Is it flat land? Are there narrow spaces you’ll need to fit through? Does your property have steep slopes? For instance, if you have a large plot to work, you might opt for a tractor with more speed so you can get the job done efficiently.

If you have farmland with lots of gates, barn doors and or equipment, you may want a compact model to navigate those tight areas.

5. Consider Operator Comfort and Convenience

Though comfort may not be the first thing on your mind when you think of heavy farming equipment, it can make working long hours less difficult. Keeping yourself and other operators more comfortable may even help you be more productive. Of course, you’ll need to sit in the tractor and try it out to determine how it feels to you. 

Additionally, you’ll want to consider how you’ll feel when working through sweltering summers or freezing winters. You might want an enclosed cab, air conditioning, extra padding in the seat or an ergonomic control setup for ease of operation. Even the smallest details, like large glass windows for extra visibility, can make all the difference. If you’re hobby farming and aren’t as familiar with heavy equipment, a model with ample comfort and convenience can give you the confidence to work on any terrain.

New vs. Used Tractors

Should you buy a new or a used tractor? That depends on your budget and your needs. You can save thousands by opting for a used vehicle, but the long-term investment of a new tractor might be better for your situation.

If you do plan to buy a used tractor, make sure you trust the seller. Ask them how they used the tractor. Did they ever experience anything out of the ordinary? What is the tractor’s power takeoff horsepower (PTO-HP)? 

Here are some essential things to look for when you’re inspecting a used tractor:

• Signs of wear: Check for leaks, rust, abnormal noises when driving or anything that seems off.
• Tire condition: Look out for bubbles, cracks and cuts in the tires.
• Hours: Total hours on a tractor is a good indicator of it’s lifespan.
• Test drive: Just like with a new tractor, take it for a test drive. Make sure you feel comfortable with the transmission system and driving mechanics. 

If anything seems off to you, it might be best to look for a new seller. 

The Benefits of a New Tractor

While a used tractor might seem more affordable now, you should remember that there will be additional costs down the line. Because it’s already logged some hours, you may need to bring this tractor in for more frequent repairs and maintenance. A new tractor will also last longer than a used one, which can be more cost-effective. 

You also want to consider technology and upgrades. How much longer will parts be available for a used tractor? With a new tractor, you have more time before it becomes obsolete. You’re also more likely to find energy-efficient and emissions-compliant engines on newer machines, which is vital in the state of California.

Additionally, heavy equipment technology is always evolving. By investing in a new tractor, you can benefit from the newest features and integrated technology. These resources can make for a more efficient and productive operation.

What to Look for in a Tractor Dealer

When you’re buying a tractor, it’s best to buy from someone you trust. Both the dealership and its individual representatives can give you clues as to whether this seller is a good fit.

Some important things you should look for when deciding on a dealership include:

• Inventory: A good dealership will have an extensive selection of tractors that fit various needs.
• Facility: The dealership facility should be customer friendly and organized so it is clear what kind of service the business provides.
• Ownership: Is it a small, family-owned business or a branch of a large company? This distinction can make all the difference in the service you’ll get moving forward.
• Quality support: In the event of a breakdown or emergency, you should be able to rely on your dealer to provide quick service to prevent unscheduled downtime. Your dealer should be a partner in helping your business stay productive and offer scheduled repairs to keep your machine well-maintained.

Ultimately, when you choose a dealer, you’re choosing a long-term business partner – if you feel mistreated, it’s time to look somewhere else.

What to Ask a Tractor Dealer

Make sure you let your dealer know what you’ll be doing with your tractor, both now and in the future. A good, well-maintained tractor can last decades, so you want to account for any changes in the size and scope of your operations moving forward. 

To get the best understanding of each model, you should ask your dealer about the following features and functions:

1. Horsepower

One of the most important things to consider when shopping for a tractor is the power you’ll need. Generally, higher horsepower means a bigger tractor.

There are two types of horsepower — the engine’s horsepower and the power takeoff (PTO) horsepower. The engine horsepower refers to the full power the engine produces.

On all tractors, features like power steering, hydraulic pumps and hydrostatic drive leech power from the engine in a process called parasitic loss. That loss means your actual horsepower is lower than what your engine is producing. That excess energy is what you will use to power your attachable implements. 

So why does PTO horsepower matter? If you need to use any implements, you’ll need to know your PTO first. This should be a lower number than your engine power. Using an implement that requires higher power than what you have can be dangerous, resulting in a damaged tractor or even personal injury. 

Ultimately, your safest bet is to buy the biggest tractor that’s reasonable for your needs. Choosing a tractor with high horsepower can ensure you have the energy to get the job done now and in the future if your tasks change.

2. Tractor Size and Performance Capabilities

• Sub-compact: Sub-compact tractors are the smallest commercial tractors available, with engines generating a total of 15 to 25 horsepower. Since they’re so small, they’re simple in terms of features and suit light operations, such as hauling dirt and mowing pastures, and other home projects.
• Compact:Compact tractors weigh about 4,000 lbs and are under 100 horsepower engine. They’re best for lighter commercial tasks like hauling small loads, removing snow and maintaining roads. Some larger models can be used for specialty crop applications when modified with an orchard cab.
• Utility: Utility tractors range from 40 to 100 horsepower and tend to come with more bells and whistles. Cabs are sometimes standard on these tractors, and some may even have advanced technology like computer systems or artificial intelligence (AI). They’re most useful for heavy work like large-scale hay operations and livestock hauling.
• Mid-size: Also classed as mid-range tractors, this category of equipment provides a convenient and comfortable solution ideal for livestock maintenance, feedlots, dairy farms, municipalities and various specialty applications. Mid-size tractors offer maneuverability and power without compromising fuel efficiency.
• High horsepower: High horsepower tractors have the power and versatility to handle a variety of demanding tasks. These tractors are suitable for agribusiness applications like tillage, planting, harvesting, lugging, baling and loading. Their capabilities enable you to take on even the most difficult projects.

You need to know two things before choosing a specific size — your daily operations and the size of your land. If you need to squeeze into smaller spaces, buy a compact or sub-compact tractor. However, if you need high horsepower to do heavy tasks, you should look into something a little larger, like a utility tractor or a tracked tractor. 

3. Transmission Systems

The transmission controls the power output in your tractor. Specifically, it controls your direction and speed.

There are four main types of transmission in tractors today — gear-drive, power shuttle, hydrostatic and continuously variable transmission (CVT).

1. Gear-drive: A classic transmission system, the gear-drive is the oldest and most straightforward in use today. It uses a clutch and gear shift mechanism to change the tractor’s speed and direction. This type of transmission is generally more affordable than others and allows for greater PTO horsepower. However, the clutches in this system are typically not lubricated with oil, so they tend to wear down faster.
2. Power shuttle: A gear-based transmission system that automatically clutches and shifts gears based on the tractor’s speed and rpm. This transmission is most helpful if you frequently shift between forward and reverse, like with a front loader. Additionally, the clutch is usually lubricated, giving it smoother control and a longer lifespan.
3. Hydrostatic: This type of transmission relies on pressurized oil to turn the wheels. It changes the direction and speed by adjusting the amount of oil flowing to the hydraulic motor. Hydrostatic transmission maintenance involves regularly changing the oil, cleaning oil cooler fins and changing the filters.
4. Continuously variable transmission (CVT): CVT technology is relatively rare in smaller tractors. Industry leader Fendt developed these incredibly efficient transmission systems, which use less water than hydrostatic and wear out slower than gear-drive systems. This type of transmission automatically shifts based on the operator’s pedal input. As the pioneer of the CVT, Fendt delivers equipment offering unparalleled fuel savings.

Some transmission systems will be better for your purposes than others, so make sure to ask your dealer for their recommendation. 

4. Tractor Implements and Attachments

The tractor’s implements are the attachable parts that carry out your intended actions. Common tractor implements include:

• Rotary Cutters: These implements typically attach to the back of a tractor to cut grass and weeds as the tractor moves. 
• Rotary tillers: Rotary tillers attach to the back of your tractor and till the soil behind it using rotating tines. 
• Front-end loaders: These versatile implements attach to the front of your tractor to lift and carry heavy loads, depending on whether you add other parts. You can connect it to other tools like pallet loaders or buckets to fulfill more specific purposes.
• Rear blades: These blades attach to the back of the tractor and flatten the ground. They’re useful for scraping surfaces to reach the bottom layer, such as large expanses of snow or when creating level paths. 
• Backhoes: Backhoe attachments can be used for various applications that involve plowing, breaking, ripping, digging or drilling.
• Discs: Also known as a harrow, a hydraulic disc attachment is ideal for breaking up dirt clumps, leveling ground, aerating soil and cutting weeds.
• Forks: Fork attachments equip your tractor to carry, rotate and lift heavier loads. Their two-pronged design is excellent for unwieldy objects and materials.
• Hitches: A hitch attachment links to your tractor to transfer the weight and resistance of an implement and offer enhanced traction.
• Landscape rakes: Featuring curved tines that hold debris, a landscape rake is a suitable attachment for transporting and disposing of loose materials or spreading topsoil and gravel.
• Posthole diggers: Posthole diggers eliminate the manual labor of digging holes in the ground. Farmers may use this tool for many applications, such as planting saplings or setting fences.

How to Choose Your Implements

Once you know what you need, it’s time to choose the specific model. Knowing how much horsepower your tractor can supply is a great start, as each model will have different power needs. Your implement’s horsepower should be within your tractor’s PTO range.

• Weight: Your tractor should lift the implement and whatever you need the implement to move. 
• Width: Your implement should fit the tractor in terms of physical size as well as weight. The appropriate width depends on the implement, so speak to your dealer if you have any questions.
• Components: You need the right pins and attachments to securely hook your implement to your tractor. Look into what each model requires and make sure you either have or can buy the right parts.

In general, as long as you stick to the rule of matching your implement to your tractor, you should be on the right track. If you’re ever unsure, it’s best to check with your salesperson to determine what implements your tractor can handle.

Find Your New Tractor With Holt Ag Solutions 

Holt Ag Solutions is a trusted source for large-scale farm equipment with 12 locations across California and Oregon. Our knowledgeable staff is happy to help you find a suitable model for your operation, or you can browse our inventory online.

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