I stumbled across this tractor recently. It is a Kubota Krawler. It is a narrow cab design that was designed for orchards, vineyards and other specialty applications.

I really enjoy tractors that are not of the garden variety. I will try to feature something unique on occasion. Some of my favorites are track machines, row crop, orchard and articulated tractors.

Here is a link to a picture of this machine:
http://www.tractordata.com/news/2008/07/kubota-m8540-power-krawler-1-large.jpg

Here is a link to more information on the machine:
http://www.tractordata.com/news/2008/07/kubota-m8540-power-krawler.html

I’ll see you in the backyard!

Welcome to the second installment on choosing a tractor for your larger yards/gardens. Today we will be looking at compact tractors.

Compact tractors are just as the name implies, a compact tractor. All the features of their larger counterparts are there in a smaller package. They are generally diesel powered machines with four wheel drive as a popular option. Most of these compacts also accept front end loader attachments. Some have a mid-mount PTO (power take off) to accept mid mount mowers, and most all of them have rear PTO and three point hitches. Auxiliary rear hydraulics are available on some machines. The PTO allows the implements to be powered. This is where an attachment drive shaft links to the tractor. It will power such things as tillers, mowers, seeders and pumps for sprayers. The three point hitch is the lifting mechanism for the rear mounted implements. The two lower links do the lifting while the top link acts as a point of adjustment from tractor to implement. The auxiliary hydraulics are not as common, but are available on some models. This adds more versatility. This adds controls for some rear attachments. You are able to operate some items with a lever from the seat of the tractor.

These are wonderful choices for a small farm, or just a large homestead. Listing all the choices in the compact tractor market is nearly impossible. There are many brands available. Finding one that is right for you is as simple as deciding the tasks you plan on using it for. Always look ahead to future plans. A loader may not seem important today, but will it be something useful in the near future? If you plan on using it in a garden setting, be certain the tractor is narrow enough to navigate the rows. Too wide of a tractor row will be a waste of ground. Other things to look at are whether four wheel drive is a necessity, tractor horsepower, ease of maintenance and operator comfort. You will think of many things as a list is being made.

A compact tractor can save a lot of time and work. Projects that would be nearly impossible by hand are quickly completed with a compact tractor.

Another bonus is that all tractors, big and small, are just plain fun to be around.

I’ll see you in the backyard!

When choosing a tractor for your “backyard”, many things need to be considered. What do you plan on using the tractor for? How much land do you have? Do you want a loader for the tractor?

Tractors come in a variety of sizes, with an even bigger variety of attachments. I will touch on three different sizes of tractors below. We will be looking at tractors for larger yards/acreage, so lawn tractors will be left out.

The sizes we will be looking at are two wheeled tractors, compact tractors and mid-size tractors. There is so much to cover I will break this up into three posts, with each tractor category receiving its own post.

Two wheeled tractors can serve many purposes on a small farm or a home with a few acres. Other than not being able to power a loader, these tractors can power virtually any equipment necessary. Some of the older brands in this category include David Bradley and Gravely tractors. Many of these, as well as other brands, are still in use today.

Here is a link to some vintage ads for those old tractors.
http://www.mytractorforum.com/showthread.php?s=ce0352445e5e57048f563e0be1d39357&t=68634

Two of the brands that are available today include BCS and Grillo tractors. These will mow grass and brush, till ground, power plows and planters, push dirt and snow, blow snow, split wood and even bale hay. There are other tools available as well. Although these tractors are not inexpensive, they are a great alternative for a small acreage. They are professional equipment in a small package. Ideal for a small farm operation or homeowner with a need for a small piece of equipment with big features.

Here is a link to a site that will show the versatility of these machines.
http://www.earthtoolsbcs.com/

These are amazing machines. Whether it be the new units on the market today or a machine that has seen use for decades, they will do an amazing amount of work. I would love an antique to keep polished for occasional use and a modern one for everyday use. You can add a seat on wheels, known as a sulky, and you can even ride while performing some tasks.

I’ll see you in the backyard!