Contents

Too small

Too big

Just right

The Small Tractor FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions

"What are the problems with a tractor that is too small or too big?"

If you have a large yard to mow, a tractor that's too small may take all day to do the job. If your land is too hilly, an underpowered tractor may not be able to climb the slopes. If your land is uneven, a too-small tractor may not have enough ground clearance to negotiate the bumps. If you expect to do heavy chores, an undersized tractor may bend or break with the strain.

You should consider carefully what tasks you want to do with your tractor now as well as what you may want to do with it in the future. Many people are surprised at just how useful a tractor can be. Thinking only of lawn mowing, they get a machine that is adequate to do the job. Then, when it comes time to till the garden, clear snow or cart heavy loads, they wish their little tractor were a little more powerful, a little heavier or built a little stronger. It is generally better to slightly oversize your tractor purchase. But, read on...

As tractors increase in size -- both height and width -- they also usually increase in weight, horsepower, complexity and price. The bigger the tractor, the more difficult it is to operate safely. More powerful tractors can cause more damage when the operator makes an error. Larger tractors have higher centers of gravity and are easier to tip over. A larger tractor needs more storage space, wider paths, stronger bridges and higher clearance from overhead obstacles like roofs and branches. A larger tractor may need a trailer for transport, instead of riding comfortably in the back of a pickup truck. Bigger tractors may require bigger tools to work on and some tasks, like changing a tire that weighs more than 150 lbs., may require a helper. Larger tractors are less agile and need more room to turn. And finally, big tractors are more work just to get on and off of.