10 Tractor Buying Tips For You to Consider When Buying a Used Tractor

While it may be tempting to walk right past the used tractors and head straight for the shiny, new models, you might be missing out on a great deal for an excellent used tractor. A used tractor could be a perfect fit for you if you know a few basics about how to evaluate the tractor. A bit of extra effort and a bit of knowledge could end up saving you a lot, especially when you're buying from a dealership and not from a random seller online.

1. Used Doesn't Mean Abused

By far, the most common reason people trade in their tractors is simply because their needs have changed, not because the tractor is worn out, is defective, or is some kind of ticking mechanical time bomb. This is where working through a dealership becomes invaluable - they will inspect the tractor and let you know what is or isn't up to snuff.

2. Check The Safety Features

As tractor rollovers and overturns are the most common tractor accidents, you'll want to be sure any tractor you consider has appropriate safety features, the number one feature being the ROPS (rollover protective structure). Is the ROPS still fully intact? You'll also want to check that the seatbelts and safety switches are still functional, and make sure all guards and shields are in place and in good shape.

3. Do Your Own General Inspection

You'll want to do more than just kick the tires (although you should do that, too). Check the pumps, the fluids, check for signs of leaks, take a look at the dutch and brake pedals; test the brakes themselves. Examine the paint, looking especially for signs of rust, dents or holes. Check the exhaust smoke. Turn the steering wheel and raise the lift; ensure the loader arms are straight and not tweaked. Check the visible wiring and electronics; make sure every button, gear, light and lever does what it's supposed to do.

4. Check The Hour Meter/Tachometer

Though it may be faded, fogged up or generally difficult to read, make sure you can see how many hours the tractor has been operated. If you can't read this or the hour meter is no longer working, there's no way to really know how "used" the used tractor might be.

5. Understand That A Tractor is Not A Car

While the span of a good car could be 10-15 years, a tractor's lifespan can be several decades. A 25-year-old car is a dicey proposition at best, whereas a well-maintained 25-year-old tractor could be the perfect solution for your budget as well as for your needs.

6. Simplicity Of Features

While newer tractors have an amazing number of features and technological advancements, sometimes you might just want a more straightforward experience. If you're not one for all the modern extras, an older tractor model without the bells and whistles might suit you perfectly and still get the job done without being overly complicated. (Also, fewer electronics usually means fewer repairs down the road.)

7. Implements

A tractor is only as good as its attachments. Be sure when looking at the cost of a tractor that you factor in all the implements you'll need to make your tractor as functional as you need it to be. Also be sure that whatever implements you'll need are either still available for your model or can be retrofitted to work safely with whatever tractor you select. Along the same lines, you might do well to consider brands with universal hook-ups.

8. Stick With Well-Known Brands

When considering a used tractor, it might not be a bad idea to choose a well-known brand with longevity in the market simply because there will be a larger inventory of parts, larger selection of attachments, more online resources for DIY service, etc.

9. Be Patient

If you're looking to buy a used tractor, you'll likely need to be willing to wait weeks, sometimes months, to find a model that suits your exact needs. There is a lot of money to be saved when purchasing used but you'll have to invest some time upfront before you reap the benefits.

10. Ask Questions

Don't be afraid to ask questions - lots of questions Your salesperson will be happy to help you narrow down your search and to get you the right tractor for your needs. You also might want to consider talking with the parts and service departments as you'll likely be dealing with them rather than your salesperson down the road.

Buying a used tractor is an excellent, budget-friendly option for many. While it can be time-consuming finding a used tractor that ticks all of your wishlist boxes, the money saved can be well worth the effort in the end.