What are compact tractors, what are their benefits and which should I choose?

What are compact tractors?In essence a compact tractor is a multi-tool which has being designed to carry out a wide range of different tasks. They come in all different shapes and sizes, usually 15 to 60 HP (horse power) in order to suit different customer types subject to their specific requirements and budget. Nowadays, most reputable compact tractor brands such as Kubota compact tractors come with power steering and are fitted with a rear 3-point linkage which gives the ability to fit different attachments (implements) to the back of the tractor. These are usually powered by a rear PTO (power take off) some of which have a dual-speed function to enable you to operate certain implements at a slower RPM (revolutions per minute).

Compact tractors are usually broken down into two different category types which are designed for different applications; these are usually a ‘manual’ gear drive or a ‘hydrostatic’ oil drive. Each design has different advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to do your research and seek the correct technical advice before making a sizeable investment on a compact tractor.

What are the benefits of compact tractors? Flexibility is the main advantage, in effect you are investing in a ‘ride on’ swiss army knife that is capable of carrying out many tasks. There are many different implements available that can be sourced for different jobs such as mowing and collecting various types of grasses, ground cultivation and preparation work, transportation of materials, spraying and spreading of materials, timber handling and chopping, sweeping and winter maintenance jobs, to name but a few. The size of the implement will usually be determined by the size and HP output of the compact tractor you are using.

In most cases you have the ability to fit a front loader and bucket for loading and transporting materials, an example would be loading salt into a gritting machine or removing horse manure from a stable. Reputable manufacturers such as Kubota compact tractors above 30 HP will usually be able to offer a quick attach system which will allow you to easily fit different implements to your loader carriage, for example a snow plough, loading bucket or a set of pallet forks for lifting and transporting. Some higher specification models of compact tractors also come fitted with a mid PTO which gives the option to fit a mowing deck underneath which is particularly common for someone who may be mowing a paddock and doesn’t need to collect the grass. Also, for someone who may want to add a large collector on the back of the machine so they can cut and collect in one operation, usually this is a good way to increase productivity when working in a large area as it covers two jobs in one.

Which is the most reliable compact tractor?In many people’s opinion the most reliable compact tractor you can buy is a Kubota compact tractor, the Kubota Corporation (Japan) are world renowned for their engines which are used by many other manufacturers in thousands of commercial products. Kubota compact tractors are usually excellent value and a sound investment which seem to hold their residual value better than most.

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