Farming may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of northern Door County. But this weekend residents and visitors alike can see the farm equipment and engines that eased the work of growing crops in the field and orchards of Door County and beyond, as well as get glimpse of modern-day equipment, and all for a good cause.

The 10th annual Antique Tractor and Engine Show, along with a juried arts and crafts show, is a fundraising event for the Liberty Grove Historical Society at its museum grounds off Wisconsin 42 at the top of the hill on the south end of Ellison Bay. The shows run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday.

The combined shows are one of the biggest fundraising events for the society, which is working toward paying off the mortgage of the Liberty Grove museum site. It includes a restored Baptist church with a display of artifacts from local families dating back to the 1800s, two pickers shacks, a granary/barn and a cottage from Liberty Park Lodge.

“I hope everyone gets a little idea of what agriculture used to be like — how a tractor runs and what it does, and learn a little of rural America. Some have never seen tractors or a hit-and-miss engine,” said Russ Smith, chairman of the tractor show. “They will get a little fun and education while we work to keep Door County’s history alive … We want to be sure that the history of our fishing, logging and farming activities is preserved so that people can relate back to what Door County was and that it is not lost.”

“I had to beg, borrow and steal tractors (in the event’s early years) … People in the area brought all the tractors they owned,” Smith said. “It gets better every year, and we are up to 50 tractors at the show and 20 hit-and-miss engines.”

While most tractors are entered into the show from people in the county, Smith does have entries that will travel a distance, including a restored tractor from Nekoosa.

“I take them all,” Smith said.

The tractors on display have interesting pasts. Some are everyday working tractors, referred to as “daily drivers,” that are used in local orchards and on farms. Others are pristine, restored and rare. A few large, modern tractors and equipment will also be on the grounds to let the public see the difference between the “today and yesterday of farming,” Smith said

The tractors that do run provide an impressionable 30- to 45-minute parade on the grounds and through Ellison Bay, beginning at 1 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday. Smith arranges extra drivers so that owners can have more than one of their tractors in the parade. Emcee Brian Leist provides plenty of descriptions for each tractor.

“It is a real crowd-pleaser,” Smith said.

New to the tractor show this year will be a special piece of vintage orchard equipment. An original prototype cherry shaker, custom-built in Sister Bay in 1962, will be on display courtesy of Steve Kalms.

Turn-of-the-century, hit-and-miss engines are another feature to the show. The small water-cooled engines that fire on every other stroke were used to pump well water and run washing machines. Two displays of the engines are provided by local residents Larson Anderson, Jason Leist and Brian Leist.

A 25 foot-long Allis Chalmers Scale Model Tractor and Farm exhibit will be on display inside the main barn on the property. Dennis Manke of Watertown builds the complete farm scene with the miniatures he has collected over 40 years. The farm display is similar to how a model railroad would be designed, but with tractors, barns and fields, Smith said.

The show awards seven trophies to tractor entries and displays. Three official judges select the Feature Tractor of the Year, which will be a J.I. Case model this year. Event attendees select their favorites and cast ballots for a list of People’s Choice awards.

Tractor-pulled hay rides around the society grounds are offered from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 4 p.m. both days. Live music is offered by old-time folk and country bands the Bittorf Brothers from noon to 3 p.m. Saturday and Charlie Cramer from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday. Visitors will also find a full menu of lunch items ranging from rib-eye steak sandwiches, cherry brats and hotdogs to yams, sweet and white potato curly fries, Door County Ice Cream Factory goodies, beverages and refreshments. Admission is by donation.

–~ Earnings per Share Increased 17.9% to $1.45 –~~ Raises Full Year 2012 EPS Guidance –~~ Sales Increased 9.6% to $1.29 Billion and Same-Store Sales Increased 3.2%

BRENTWOOD, Tenn., July 25, 2012 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ — Tractor Supply Company TSCO +7.84% , the largest retail farm and ranch store chain in the United States, today announced financial results for its second fiscal quarter ended June 30, 2012.

Second Quarter Results Net sales increased 9.6% to $1.29 billion from $1.18 billion in the prior year’s second quarter. Same-store sales increased 3.2% compared to a 4.6% increase in the prior-year period. The same-store sales increase was driven primarily by continued strong results in key consumable, usable and edible (C.U.E.) products, principally animal- and pet-related merchandise. The Company estimates that approximately $38 million of sales were pulled forward into the first quarter from the second quarter as a result of early spring weather, which is at the high end of the previously communicated range.

Each quarter of fiscal 2012 starts one week later than the same quarter of fiscal 2011 due to the Company’s 2011 fiscal year having 53 weeks versus the normal 52 weeks. Adjusting for the one-week calendar shift, same-store sales for the second quarter of 2011 increased 7.1%. Same-store sales for the four quarters and full year of 2011, adjusted for the one-week calendar shift, are presented in the attached table of Selected Financial and Operating Information.

Gross margin dollars increased 12.2% to $451.5 million from $402.5 million in the prior year’s second quarter. As a percent of sales, gross margin increased to 34.9% from 34.1% in the prior year. The increase in gross margin as a percent of sales was primarily driven by the favorable impact of a lower percent of sales mix of low margin, big ticket seasonal and emergency response products.

Selling, general and administrative expenses, including depreciation and amortization, improved slightly to 21.8% of sales compared to 21.9% of sales in the prior year’s second quarter. The improvement as a percent of sales was primarily attributable to expense control with respect to store personnel and other operating costs.

Net income for the quarter was $106.6 million, or $1.45 per diluted share, compared to net income of $91.2 million, or $1.23 per diluted share, in the second quarter of the prior year.

The Company opened 18 new stores compared to 16 new store openings in the prior year’s second quarter.

Jim Wright, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, stated, “We are pleased with our ability to generate double-digit EPS growth during the second quarter, while operating in a stagnant economy and navigating weather shifts and unfavorable drought conditions. The pull-forward of spring category demand into the first quarter from the second quarter was at the high end of our previously communicated range, while all core C.U.E. businesses posted solid increases above last year. Our operating performance and 17th consecutive quarter of comp transaction count increases are testaments to the stability we have built in our business and continue to demonstrate the progress we are making on many of our key initiatives. We remain committed to our strategy of providing exceptional value to our customers, while we continue to evolve our assortments and the in-store experience.”

First Six Months Results Net sales increased 14.8% to $2.31 billion from $2.01 billion in the first six months of 2011. Same-store sales increased 6.7% compared to a 7.0% increase in the first six months of 2011. Gross margin dollars increased 16.0% to $784.3 million, or 33.9% of sales, compared to $676.1 million, or 33.6% of sales, in the first six months of 2011.

Selling, general and administrative expenses, including depreciation and amortization, increased 9.3% to $550.0 million, but improved as a percent of sales to 23.8% compared to 25.0% for the first six months of 2011.

Net income was $146.9 million, or $2.00 per diluted share, compared to net income of $109.5 million, or $1.47 per diluted share, for the first six months of 2011.

The Company opened 51 new stores and closed one store in the first six months of 2012 compared to 42 new store openings during the first six months of 2011.

Company Outlook Net sales for the full-year 2012 are now expected to range between $4.58 billion and $4.65 billion compared to the Company’s previously expected range of $4.61 billion to $4.68 billion. Same-store sales for the year are now expected to increase 3.5% to 5.0% compared to the prior expectation for an increase of 4.0% to 5.5%. Based on stronger than expected net income per diluted share for the second quarter, the Company now anticipates net income per diluted share for the full-year 2012 will range between $3.58 and $3.66, compared to its previous guidance of $3.52 to $3.60.

Mr. Wright concluded, “Our second quarter performance shows the underlying strength of our core businesses, as well as our ability to manage through and respond to a wide array of variables. Our team is actively managing the product assortment to meet customer needs in the affected markets as the drought continues to spread and intensify. As demonstrated in the past, we have the ability to effectively react to seasonal variances. Looking to the second half of 2012, we remain energized about the opportunities we see ahead and will continue to build on the progress we have made in the areas of inventory management, merchandise allocation and regionalization. We have built a stable and differentiated business that serves a unique niche in the retail marketplace.”

Conference Call Information Tractor Supply Company will be hosting a conference call at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time today to discuss the quarterly results. The call will be broadcast simultaneously over the Internet on the Company’s homepage at TractorSupply.com and can be accessed under the link “Investor Relations.” The webcast will be archived shortly after the conference call concludes and will be available through August 8, 2012.

About Tractor Supply Company At June 30, 2012, Tractor Supply Company operated 1,135 stores in 45 states. The Company’s stores are focused on supplying the lifestyle needs of recreational farmers and ranchers. The Company also serves the maintenance needs of those who enjoy the rural lifestyle, as well as tradesmen and small businesses. Stores are located in towns outlying major metropolitan markets and in rural communities. The Company offers the following comprehensive selection of merchandise: (1) equine, pet and small animal products, including items necessary for their health, care, growth and containment; (2) hardware, truck, towing and tool products; (3) seasonal products, including lawn and garden items, power equipment, gifts and toys; (4) maintenance products for agricultural and rural use; and (5) work/recreational clothing and footwear.

Forward Looking Statements: As with any business, all phases of the Company’s operations are subject to influences outside its control. This information contains certain forward-looking statements, including statements regarding estimated results of operations in future periods. These forward-looking statements are subject to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and are subject to the finalization of the Company’s quarterly financial and accounting procedures, and may be affected by certain risks and uncertainties, any one, or a combination, of which could materially affect the results of the Company’s operations. These factors include, without limitation, general economic conditions affecting consumer spending, the timing and acceptance of new products in the stores, the mix of goods sold, purchase price volatility (including inflationary and deflationary pressures), the ability to increase sales at existing stores, the ability to manage growth and identify suitable locations, the ability to manage expenses, the availability of favorable credit sources, capital market conditions in general, failure to open new stores in the manner and number currently contemplated, the impact of new stores on our business, competition, weather conditions, the seasonal nature of our business, effective merchandising initiatives and marketing emphasis, the ability to retain vendors, reliance on foreign suppliers, the ability to attract, train and retain qualified employees, product liability and other claims, changes in federal, state or local regulations, potential judgments, fines, legal fees and other costs, breach of privacy, ongoing and potential future legal or regulatory proceedings, management of our information systems, failure to secure or develop and implement new technologies, the failure of customer-facing technology systems, business disruption including from the implementation of supply chain technologies, effective tax rate changes and results of examination by taxing authorities, the ability to maintain an effective system of internal control over financial reporting and changes in accounting standards, assumptions and estimates. Forward-looking statements made by or on behalf of the Company are based on knowledge of its business and the environment in which it operates, but because of the factors listed above, actual results could differ materially from those reflected by any forward-looking statements. Consequently, all of the forward-looking statements made are qualified by these cautionary statements and those contained in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. There can be no assurance that the results or developments anticipated by the Company will be realized or, even if substantially realized, that they will have the expected consequences to or effects on the Company or its business and operations. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. The Company does not undertake any obligation to release publicly any revisions to these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

John Deere Compact Gators

These John Deere compact tractors have three point hitch technology, which is the standard and primary feature. This feature represents the three main tools that you require. You can attach a bucket, mower, harvester, seeder, cutting tool, excavator, a digger, and many other attachments. The most important thing is to determine what implements you need to most, but you can also purchase additional implements to do other jobs later on. Modern machines make implement attachment very easy without major adjustments. The front and back of the compact tractor must have hydraulic systems to allow for a more powerful performance for digging, moving, and cutting. The hydraulics systems allow the machine to carry more weight, so as long as there is ample counterweight at the back of the tractor.

Opt for safety and comfort of a John Deere Gator

Aside from the hydraulic systems, which ease the work, safety and comfort is also equally essential. Ergonomically designed controls, pedals, wheels, and seats, come highly recommended. Ergonomics are a paramount in today’s tractors, in order to minimize, if not to eliminate injuries, due to sustained strains when operating the machine. The wheel can be adjusted according to the drivers wish, to a comfortable setting. The legroom should be ample enough to reach the pedals easily and allow the operator to stretch. The controls are easy to operate and reach too. Long hours of work require a seat with ample cushioning and suspension to ease out bumps. Enclosures allow the driver to work through the rain, wind, sun, and snow, complete with heating and air-conditioning. If an open cab is preferred, a roll over device should be in place, along with a seatbelt, incase the tractor should roll over.

Traction and engine attributes

Medium sized business requires compact tractors that have powerful engines to meet the demanding work loads. The engine can also withstand long hours of work without breaking down. The engine should have available power when the operator needs to push harder and longer too. The tires also play crucial part. Some lands have unforgiving terrain, which requires tires that have deep grooves that grips the soil for proper traction. For urban settings and plain terrain, standard tires are suitable in these conditions. A combination of muddy, hilly, and plain terrain could use a set of all terrain tires so the machine could negotiate such conditions with ease.

Another great feature of a compact tractor should have easy access to part in case of replacements. Modern tractors can easily be fixed without accessing the hood. If you are in the market for a good tractor, choose a recently made one, so that serviceable part will be available in shops and online stores. Business owners choose to buy compact tractors because of its efficiency, reliability, and productivity enhancement.

The 2009 john deere gator compact, 2006 john deere gator compact atv, the 2005 john deere gator compact, and the john deere gator cx are all excellent models. Let us help you find the John Deere Gator for sale that you need.

Compact tractors should be versatile

In the case of tractors, versatility is a main consideration. Versatile machines denote performing multiple tasks. As described on the onset, a machine can do digging, moving, plowing, and many other jobs. What makes a machine versatile is the three point hitch that is a major and standard feature of a modern tractor. The feature can do three jobs in one easy attachment, using the tractor as a platform. Modern technology allows for the attachment to be used in relative ease and without the need to cumbersome adjustments. The front loader has powerful hydraulics that powers the loader. The loader’s lifting capacity is increased, allowing it to carry heavier loads. The front part can also have implements for cutting and mowing. The rear too has implements that can dig, excavate, and seed.

Choose compact tractors that are ergonomic, safe, and comfortable

Modern tractors offer more than powerful engines and hydraulic systems, they also offer comfortable, safe, and ergonomically designed feature. The ergonomics are essential technology, so that operators can avoid injuries for prolonged use. For instance, the wheels should be adjustable, so that the driver can adjust the settings to his own preference. The pedals, seat, and controls should be at the right configuration, so that the driver can use it with ease. The seat should have cushions and suspensions, in order to provide a comfortable ride. Safety is another attribute that should be taken into consideration. Some tractors may have enclosures that are complete with foot guard, shield, and air conditioning systems. Seat belts and roll guards protect the driver, in case of any eventuality, hopefully not. The cab must have ample legroom and head clearance for added comfort.

Compact tractors should have powerful engines and ample traction

A powerful engine allows the operator to push the machine harder and longer. Speed and efficiency denote profit and reliability. On the other hand, tires also play an important part in maneuverability. Negotiating unforgiving terrain requires a suitable set of tires. Terrains that have muddy and hilly features require tires that have deep grooves to provide ample traction. Urban settings require a standard set of tires, while the combination of both needs an all terrain set of tires.

Easy maintenance and parts access is also crucial including choosing the best replacement compact tractor tires and other attachments. Access to engine parts should be accessible enough to avoid opening the hood. Serviceable parts should be available at all times, which is important to choose a tractor of a recent make. These tips are sure to narrow down your selection process. Choose compact tractors that have advantageous features, in order to boost your business potentials.

Compact tractors are self-driven machines that are smaller versions of heavy duty agricultural tractors. Commonly used by garden owners, landscapers and hobbyists, these can also be used for commercial purposes if a particular business caters to landscaping, garden or grounds management that do not require large scale operations. In the US, there are already numerous brands or makers of compact tractors, with each of them offering several models for a particular machine. These models offer many possibilities for users, by giving them many choices to best suit their needs.

Used Compact Tractor with Loader for Sale

Whether you are looking for used compact 4×4 tractors or compact tractor packages, there are many available models that can perfectly match your needs. The development of compact tractors over the years has helped people tremendously. With these powered machines, working on an acre of land takes less time than to be done manually. And with a lot of engines and add-ons available, these equipments can do a lot more. Tractors are broadly categorized in two, based on their purpose. These are commercial and residential products. Compact tractors are not exclusive for home use, since it can also be for small-scale businesses that can meet the required capacity. The two differs basically in the objective of whether it is intended to generate an income or not. Whatever the purpose is, compact tractor packages for sale can offer a big help to users.

People who are considering opening up a landscaping business can start with used compact tractor with loader. Tractors can be attached with several other equipments to help people with hard labors in construction and agriculture. In landscaping, construction can also be a tough work that it requires machines such as tractors with loader to carry various materials such as rocks, sand, gravel and many others.

Other used compact tractors:

• Used Compact Tractor with Loader
• Used Compact Tractors For Sale
• Used Tractor Sales
• Used Tractor Loaders
• Used John Deere Compact Tractors With Loader
• Used Compact Tractor For Sale
• Used Kubota Compact Tractors

The compact tractors are usually smaller and are typically intended for such task and grounds maintenance. Loaders are said to perform the work of about 6 laborers, saving time and money. Any starting landscape contractor can count on these machines if they want to earn quickly. Hobbyists who see farming or gardening as a productive way to spend free time can also rely on used compact tractor loader sale for it can work efficiently and costs less than the new models in the market. Prices may depend also on the horsepower range, but the key is to find out first which type of used compact tractor with loader he needs before buying.

The world-leading manufacturer will be exhibiting no less than 11 different agricultural machines on its stand, including the M series tractors and the RTV900 all terrain utility vehicle.

The highlight will be Kubota’s flagship M130X tractor, which was unveiled last year. The 130hp model is the largest in compact tractors range and has been designed to offer a real alternative to both expensive and economy tractors.

It features a four-cylinder engine, electronic fueling and engine governing as well as Intelli-Shift 16 Speed transmission with eight-speed powershift and auto field/road modes. This can be enhanced with the new LA2253 loader, which has a lifting capacity of 2.1t to a maximum height of 4.1m.

This will be complemented by five models from the M40 series, which spans 63 to 95hp and includes the M8540 narrow, which has been specifically designed for use on fruit farms and vineyards.

Read full article: Kubota to display full range of tractors

More Kubota Compact Tractors:

• Kubota Compact Tractor
• Kubota Compact Tractors Sale
• Kubota Compact Tractor Tires
• Kubota Compact Tractor Packages
• Full Range of Kubota Tractors

Buying a compact tractor is not that easy, but it only requires simple process for as long as you have basic knowledge about compact tractor. It is important for you to understand what the tractor can do for you. You need to first set your budget and you need to know how much money you are willing spend for your compact tractor. Your budget will also help you to determine what model or feature of tractor you can buy for money.

A compact tractor made by Yanmar is notorious for first time users, because they are smaller than your regular tractor and it can easily be maneuvered and it can employed more complicated terrains and awkward crannies. The small built of this tractor will help users to finish their job quickly and with efficiency. This does not require any effort that is why it is perfect for beginners. You can finish your work in a small span of time, because this tractor is faster compare to a regular tractor. A compact Yanmar tractor is perfect and recommended for both commercial and residential use.

There are several reasons why compact tractors of Yanmar are the number one choice of many consumers. This kind of tractor is very handy, especially when the time comes that you need to purchase and to test drive the tractor. It is important that you test drive the compact tractor that you are going to guy to know if you can handle this kind of tractor. At first you might feel an awkward feeling while driving a much smaller tractor especially if you are familiar with large tractors, but as you try to drive compact tractor you will find out and discover its convenience and ease of use. You will appreciate compact tractors than your conventional tractor.

Compact Tractor Loaders:

• Best Compact Tractor Loader
• John Deere Compact Tractor
• Compact Utility Tractor
• Yanmar Compact Tractors
• Sub Compact Tractors
• New Compact Tractors
• Kubota Compact Tractor

Yanmar compact tractors were made from high standard and superior quality, so you can be sure that all of their tractors whether compact or not can last for years. Once you chose Yanmar you can ensure that all parts are high in quality and low in maintenance, but you still need to take good care of your tractor by doing regular checkups. Regular checkups can prevent you from having huge repair and maintenance. In case, you need to replace the part of Yanmar tractor in the future, there are available parts or you can use warranty to repair or replace worn out parts.

Before you make any conclusion, you need to determine the exact function that you want for your tractor. It is also important to determine what you want for your tractor. You can list all the tasks that you want to accomplish using your tractor. Once you are done with listing, then you can start searching for the right tractor that can help you accomplish your tasks.

Your budget can hinder you from finding the best sub tractor in the market. If you have very limited budget, then you can opt for second tractors, but you need to choose the used tractor carefully. If you are going to buy used tractor make sure that you will get a brand that is reliable and trusted in the market. The information that you can get about used tractor especially on the web can be very overwhelming for a first time buyer like you. It will be helpful if you will go to review sites about buying tractors. Lots of users can give you helpful and related information that can help you find the best used or brand new tractor.

One of the most important features that you need to consider when looking for a sub compact tractor loader is the horsepower. A sub-compact tractor is being measured with the use of horsepower similar to other engine powered vehicles. When buying for a tractor you need to look for 18 to 28 engine power to make sure that your tractor will perform at its best. It is important for you to know that high horsepower does not always mean that that tractor has more usable power.

The next thing that you need to keep in mind is the PTO horsepower or the “Power Take Off horsepower”. This rating will indicate the actual usable power of the tractor and this is a helpful gauge to know the tractors capabilities. The horsepower is transferred coming from the engine to the implement with the use of a rotating shaft located at the rear, middle or front of the tractor.

Compact Tractor Loaders:

• Best Compact Tractor Loader
• John Deere Compact Tractor
• Compact Utility Tractor
• Yanmar Compact Tractors
• Sub Compact Tractors
• New Compact Tractors
• Kubota Compact Tractor

It is important for a buyer to know there are two types of PTO engagements and this is the independent and the live. It is important for one to know the difference between the two. Whether you want a second hand tractor and a brand new tractor, the horsepower and the PTO horsepower is very important. All sub compact tractors are use for difficult work, so you need to make sure that they are made by a reliable manufacturer and the features of the tractor is suited for the work that you need to accomplish.

To those that are interested to know what this machine is, here, is a brief description. The machine is a very hardworking and useful addition to any garden. The loader’s primary task is to move large chunks of rocks, stone, earth, and clearing out debris of all sorts. Such tasks used to be carried out by hands becomes a thing of the past. The machines are designed for doing such jobs with ease. What it lacks for speed, it makes up for the strong construction and capabilities. The compact look covers-up the strong engine inside to carry out such tiresome tasks. Some loaders may have attachments to do more jobs, not just loading. It has a large bucket to scoop all sorts of materials.

The size of the tractor loader for gardening depends on the size of the land. If a piece of land measures a few acres, it needs a lesser horsepower engine. The same goes for a medium sized plot; will need a more powerful garden tractor loader. Choosing a brand new or a used tractor is usually the last deciding factor. Both factors can have useful advantages to suit every gardener’s needs, although the dilemma is usually the price and financial constraints. Nevertheless, a used machine has one advantage over the new ones and that is the savings one makes.

Finally, the features of the tractors can tremendously help in performing a flawless and productive job in the garden. These features include ergonomic seats and controls. Tilting steering wheels and hydrostatic transmission are the usual refinements in the machines. There are other features such are hydraulic powered attachments, do work with such ease. Safety of the driver is also vital, so seat belts and crush bars are a standard. The ergonomic controls and seats allow total comfort and prevent future health risks due to long term use of the tractor. Protection from the sun and debris is equally vital. Some models are equipped with canopy and enclosures to offer total comfort and protection from the rain and sun.

The loaders have come a long way, and now these machines have state-of-the-art attachments and features. These amenities are essential in order to boost productivity, cutting back on manpower, and finishing the job swiftly. The modern designs and capabilities ensure total protection, productivity, safety, and customer satisfaction. In a few more years, one might wonder what the companies would come up to wow the clients. The garden tractor loader is a worthwhile investment and a great addition to any garden.

You might be the proud owner of a brand new piece of land with many acres available for your farming pleasure. It is possible that the pasture that you talk about may be filled with overgrown greenery as well as untended plant and weed growth. The obvious solution here is to get some help via some farm machinery or a small tractor. But if you have no previous experience tending a farm or large tracts of land, what are you to do? It is normal to have plenty of questions and that is the way it should be. Because only with proper research will you be able to know what kind of farm tractor you should get.

What kind of small tractor, what size, which features should you look for? Let’s take these queries one by one.

What size should I get?
This depends entirely on what you plan to do with the tractor. The second most important factor is what your land is like. You might just need to mow some grass on a light grassy field if that is the case then a garden type lawnmower variety is probably best. If you plan on actually plowing a field, gather and fasten some hay, do some stump pulling and the whole nine yards then it is best that you get yourself a more powerful tractor machine.

Light Duty or Heavy Duty?
Basically, you will find that there are two types of lawn and garden tractor. The light-duty and the heavy duty tractor. Light duty machines are quite affordable, requires less maintenance, is belt driven, and has short term parts available. They are usually made of sheet metal and plastic and are designed to last for a shorter period of time. Breakdowns on light duty equipment may not be repaired and used machines might not be accepted for trade-ins. They however remain immensely popular because of the low purchase cost and if you take care of your light-duty tractor, you may be able to perform chores on it for many years.

Heavy duty equipment is usually more expensive to purchase, requires more maintenance, is usually made with an iron or steel frame, is shaft-driven and has long term parts availability. It is designed to last for many years to come. Heavy duty owners usually trade-up to a newer model after a few years, similar to that of car owners. This means that there is a good sized number of secondhand heavy-duty tractors available for purchase.

Compact Tractor Loaders:

• Best Compact Tractor Loader
• John Deere Compact Tractor
• Compact Utility Tractor
• Yanmar Compact Tractors
• Sub Compact Tractors
• New Compact Tractors
• Kubota Compact Tractor

Before you go ahead a purchase, make sure that you actually need this piece of farm equipment. It is important to note that not all farm jobs can be handled by a tractor. If this is the case, perhaps you are better off with renting new compact tractors first and seeing if they can handle the job you need done.