I have done a significant amount of internet exploration and have visited a number of dealers just to lay eyes on things. I narrowed the field down to the most attractive candidates and negotiated prices with dealers. I have a short (or somewhat short) list of finalists. Tomorrow I will visit dealers to learn more about the machines, fire them up and exercise the controls. By the end of the day, I hope to make my purchase.
There is one variable at play that could appreciably alter the picture. I have a bum right shoulder. 5 surgeries. A total replacement with half of that artificial joint removed. I experience pain, lack of stability and weakness with my right arm extended out in front of me. At this point, I don't expect much improvement if any. Right now all the tractors on my short list are size 2 (one size above sub-compact) I have selected those because the bucket control is at the fender and I can operate it with my upper arm resting naturally at my side. If I find that I can operate a control located near the steering wheel a few more tractors enter the picture.
Prices include Tractor, Bush Hog and Box Blade. All prices are before tax and any dealer fees. Any delivery fees are inconsequential. Insurance costs are inconsequentially different.
Stop 1 will be at the JD dealer. Dealer is local at 25 miles.
JD 2025 package $20,000. 0% on all items.
Stop 2 Mahindra/Kioti dealer. Dealer is local at 12 miles.
Kioti CK2510 package $19,700. 0% on tractor. Convoluted blended rate when implements added.
Kioti CK2610 package $20,700. 0% on tractor. Convoluted blended rate when implements added.
Stop 3 Kubota dealer. Dealer is local at 25 miles.
Kubota B2601 package $18,700. 0% on all items.
Stop 4 Tym Dealer. Dealer is 50 miles away.
Tym T264 package $15,900. 5.5% on everything.
Stop 5 Yanmar Dealer. Dealer is 124 miles away. Servicing dealer is 15 miles away (they are sold out of compact Yanmars and will happily service mine.)
Yanmar SA324 package $17,400. 0% on Tractor. Implements must be paid for in cash.
IF I feel like I can get by with FEL controls beside the steering wheel, I'll end up with one of the below tractors, but I am doubtful as my shoulder is trashed.
JD 3025 package $20,000. 0 percent on everything.
Mahindra Max 26 Package $19,700. 0 percent on everything.
Kubota L2501 package $20,450. 0 percent on everything.
As you might suspect, I have found things I like about certain tractors over others. Some have cruise control, some have telescoping 3 pt arms (not real sure the advantage there) some have skid steer bucket attachments, some have 3 speed HST, etc. There are other relevant financial factors that I won't bore you with. Let's say all of the dealers seem pretty equal.
If any of you have model specific information or knowledge that you think might be useful, please let me know. If it were you, which would you choose and why? What else do I need to consider?
My thoughts as of now. On the TYM website, the 264 is describes as a sub-compact. Every spec puts is squarely in the size 2 compact range. I need to lay eyes on it. It is a great deal. I can get a tandem axle trailer and a disc with that for $18,700 all at 5.5%. The Kubota B2610 sits at the top of my list as of right now all things considered. Tractor, implements, 0% financing and insurance under one roof from arguably the best reputed brand. The JD 3025 is a great deal if I can use the FEL control comfortably.
