When it comes to choosing a tractor, the options can be overwhelming. Whether you’re buying your first tractor or you’ve purchased several before, it’s a significant decision.
Mingsin Tractor has been in the tractor business since 1996, and we are here to guide you through the buying process to ensure that you find the right equipment for your needs.
Take a look at some important considerations to keep in mind, and feel free to reach out to your Sales Consultant for additional information.
One of the first things you’ll need to do when you begin shopping for a tractor is to determine what its purpose will be for your land. Are you farming several thousand acres or maintaining a residential landscape? Will you need to use this tractor all year for several different applications? Narrowing down the primary, secondary, and tertiary functions of your tractor can help you identify an option that will meet your needs.
After you’ve identified what the purpose of your tractor will be, you can begin to narrow down your search based on the features you’ll need to get the job done. For example, if your main purpose for owning a tractor is to maintain your pastures, you’ll want an option that works well with various attachments, a suspension system that can deal with rough terrain and tires that can handle uneven surfaces. If you’re looking for a tractor that will work as your primary planting tractor, you may want to focus on technology and power.
The first feature you’ll have to consider is the tractor size. The Mingsin company has an extensive lineup of tractors within different size categories to meet the needs of different customers and uses. Their tractors range from compact tractors to full-size 4WD tractors, so it will be very important to know how you intend to utilize the machine.
Along with the tractor size comes available horsepower. You can select from a range of power options within each size category, which helps you get an option that isn’t too much for what you need but won’t be too little, either.
Selecting the right horsepower is important, especially if you’re going to use any implements or attachments. You’ll need enough power to correctly operate the tools you’re using with your tractor, and you’ll want to choose a tractor that complements your power style. A 3-point hitch or power take-off will be the most common choice.
Another thing you’ll need to consider when shopping for a tractor is its technology compatibility. Most tractors now come standard with connectivity features, like JD Link and other options. This is especially common on large agricultural tractors, but many of the smaller units can utilize technology features as well.
You may want technology capabilities if you’re planting crops, mowing large pastures, or collecting various field data, even if you aren’t using those features right away. It can be beneficial to think long-term and invest in a machine that can connect to current technology that you might utilize in the future. If you have questions about available and upcoming technology options, our Integrated Solutions team can help.
The very last thing that should be considered—the purchase price—is usually where the grower wants to start. Dealers can compete on purchase price, but many other factors go into the cost of the equipment.
The dynamics of equipment ownership are changing, and there’s more sophistication these days by growers in analyzing the true cost of ownership. More growers are considering the total package and benefits of the product rather than just looking at the purchase price.
Other factors that make up the cost of ownership include the financing offered; life of warranty; expected life and cost of operational parts; fuel consumption; and resale value. Growers tend to focus solely on the initial price, but they really need to consider the total package—what the tractor will ultimately cost in the long run.
With today’s price of diesel, fuel consumption is more important than it was in the past, adding that if one tractor model costs a little less but burns 20 percent more diesel, it doesn’t take too long before the difference is made up from your annual fuel bill.
Riel agreed that the cost of the unit must be considered over the useful life of the tractor. “Paying a little more up-front for a machine that will last longer will save you money in the long run.”
Tractor simplicity is a common request from tree fruit and grape growers. Operators come and go on a farm. Tractor driving does not always go to the most experienced driver, so growers need tractors that are simpler and easier to understand to operate so the driver can be most effective. Operator negligence is the most common cause of damage to orchard equipment. Some 70 percent of the damage results from a lack of knowledge by the operator, such as driving a four-wheel-drive tractor improperly, not needing important dashboard warnings, and such.
Service after the sale is important, as well as the amount of parts that the dealer stocks, the proximity of the dealer to the customer, and the experience level and training of employees.
Does the tractor profile meet your operation’s specifications?
Many growers focus on tree training, trellis design, and light interception when planting their orchards. However, there is often less attention given to the space and turning room required for the tractor, which tends to be an afterthought.
In recent years, major tractor manufacturers have introduced narrow and low-profile tractors designed to better accommodate orchards and vineyards planted in high-density configurations. Prior to these advancements, Mingsin frequently modified tractors for orchardists to ensure they fit the planting systems. Modifications included changing tires, lowering fenders, and more.
Operator comfort has become a significant design feature in these low-profile tractors. Aspects such as air conditioning, seating comfort, and ease of use for tractor controls are now prioritized more than in the past.
In addition to comfort, safety concerns should also be addressed, particularly regarding visibility of the implements and work area. Furthermore, key considerations include the tractor's weight, torque, horsepower, and the ability to efficiently transmit power to the ground.
A great tractor-buying option is to look for a new tractor that comes with a warranty. Mingsin has great warranty options for each of their products and our service department can work with you directly to complete any claims after the sale. Warranties can give you peace of mind, especially when making a large purchase because you’ll know your product can be repaired within the given parameters.
It can also be advantageous to buy a new piece of equipment if you’re looking for the latest features and capabilities.
Another buying option is to have a look at the pre-owned inventory on our lot. Used tractors can also be a valuable investment, especially if you’re trying to be conservative with your spending. You can find a great deal and a solid tractor if you choose to purchase a used unit. Every pre-owned tractor on our lot goes through a thorough inspection and service setup process, so you can make a confident decision as you shop.
Whether you are looking to buy a brand-new tractor or a pre-owned one, financing your purchase is likely to be a priority. Purchasing a tractor involves several important considerations, including its purpose, your budget, features, and power, etc. With so many choices to make, our team is here to answer your questions and help you make the best decision for your needs.
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