The Ultimate Guide to Buying Your First Tractor

Getting the right tractor for your land unlocks all kinds of possibilities. However, when you’re new to the world of tractors, figuring out where to start might seem a little intimidating. If shopping for a new machine has you feeling stressed, let Yanmar help take the pressure off. This guide covers all the essential details you need to know so you can buy with confidence.

Tractor Types: Compact vs. Sub-Compact Tractors

There are many types of tractors to choose from, but for most landowners it comes down to two primary types: compact and sub-compact. Here’s a quick breakdown of the key differences:

• Compact Tractor. A compact tractor is larger in size and more powerful. Typically tractors with 35-60 horsepower fall into this category. If you have lots of land to cover or have jobs that require lifting heavy loads, a compact tractor is likely the best choice.
• Sub-Compact Tractor. A sub-compact tractor has a smaller profile, making it easier to maneuver and fit in tight spaces. Generally, these tractors have 25 horsepower or less, but are still very versatile and can accomplish a wide variety of tasks.

Plan for Your Property

With a solid understanding of the two main tractor types, the next thing to do is start planning for your property. Though each plot of land is different, these are four of the most common factors that are essential to your tractor purchase.

Property Size

Choosing the right tractor type for the size of your land will make a big difference in the efficiency of your work. If you have significant acreage, a compact tractor is most likely the best choice. Factors like a larger fuel tank and higher horsepower will help you cover more ground easily. With a smaller property, a sub-compact tractor such as the Yanmar SA Series can be more convenient, as its smaller stature allows it to go places a larger tractor cannot. However, if you’re still on the fence, the Yanmar Customer Experience Team is a great resource to understand your needs and help you choose the perfect model.

Tractor Features

Between backhoes, front-end loaders, implements, and many other features, there’s no shortage of choices to customize your tractor. This nuance is where you’ll really see a difference in the type of work you can do. For example, if you’re needing to move heavy objects, tractors in the YT2 Series have a front lift capacity of 1,300 lbs at the pivot pin, while the YM Series can handle up to 2,500 lbs. To help define the exact features you’ll need, check out our free Landowner’s Planner resource.

Consider Comfort

Just because you’re working hard doesn’t mean you can’t be comfortable. Advanced features like repeatable operating speeds and clutchless shifting will make operation of your tractor simple, no matter your skill level. Beyond ease of operation, consider your physical comfort as well. When you’re working through freezing winters or sweltering summers, a tractor with a cab will let you enjoy heating and air conditioning for an ideal climate all day long.

Specific Tasks

Tractors are versatile machines that can accomplish a wide variety of tasks. However, before you buy, prioritize your most important jobs. If you have acres of brush to clear or need to harvest hay, ensure the model you choose can accommodate the specific tractor attachments required to tackle those chores. When you’re on the fence between two models, a good rule of thumb is to go with the more powerful option. It gives you room to grow and offers more future possibilities.

Set Your Budget

Save yourself the heartbreak of sticker shock on a tractor you love by establishing a realistic budget prior to shopping. This not only helps you identify how you can get the most for your money, it will also help dealers or the customer experience team provide perfect recommendations. There’s no doubt a tractor is a major purchase, so Yanmar offers a wide range of financing options and cash rebates that can save you thousands of dollars.

Try Before You Buy

Just like buying a car, there’s nothing wrong with wanting to take a test drive before you buy. Viewing the tractor before you purchase will give you a realistic picture of the dimensions, features, and capabilities. In most cases, the best option is to connect with your local Yanmar dealer. For those who live in the Atlanta area, don’t miss the Yanmar EVO Store. It’s the ultimate destination for everything Yanmar, and you can even put the tractors to work in the product demonstration fields.

Added Benefits and Support

When you purchase a tractor, you’re not only getting the machine – you’re also buying into the manufacturer’s reputation, quality, and service. At Yanmar, we stand behind all of our tractors with an industry-leading, 10-year limited powertrain warranty. On top of that, we’ve earned a reputation for reliability thanks to our Performance Link Technology. By manufacturing all major drivetrain components in-house, they’re built to work perfectly in conjunction. These small details add up to provide value and peace of mind when it’s time to get to work.

Try the Yanmar Custom Tractor Builder

One of the easiest ways to start exploring your options is with the Yanmar Custom Tractor Builder. This helpful online tool lets you create your ideal machine, customizing everything from tire tread to accessories and attachments. 

Once you’ve put together the perfect package, you’ll assistance finding the tractor at a dealer near you. Of course, if you have any questions along the way, don’t hesitate to connect with us to get the answers you need.