picassomcp
Member
I farm with older equipment and that has been fine as I only farmed about 50 acres of corn/beans and another 50 of hay. Now my operation has grown to 200 acres corn/beans and 100 hay. I am using a farmall 460, 756, 1256, 1456 and a 1486. The 56 series are far and away my favorite tractors to use, however, they also have the greatest value. The 1256 and 1456 are probably worth 10-15,000 each as they are in very good condition, the 12 is all painted up, has new rear rubber. The 1456 is nearly the same but still waiting for paint. These tractors are awesome and I love using them, but if I should have major engine problems, I will be in for a huge repair bill. Like $5,000 or more to repair these engines.
The 1486 on the other hand is a bit newer, but much more common tractor. I only paid $8500 for the tractor with new rear rubber and a great engine. If this engine should go to heck, I could probably repair or replace it for $2500. Much cheaper than those 56 series.
This makes me think that I should be running more common (cheaper) tractors. A 1066 or 1086 could probably replace the 1256 and 1456 and I would have much less at risk if I should have troubles, or need parts.
Now, I have just taken a look at a 1206 that I think I need, I'd love this tractor, but would be in the same boat as those 56 series, at risk of expensive breakdowns.
These older tractors seem to just be going up in value, making me think I should keep them, but boy if I should have a large breakdown, I would be underwater in a hurry. And if the values should go down on these tractors, I'd sure be a fool for hanging on to them.
Bottom line is....I love the heck out of them, but can't help but wonder if keeping them around and using them as my main tractors is a good idea, especially as my farm grows and they get used and relied upon more and more. What are your thoughts??
The 1486 on the other hand is a bit newer, but much more common tractor. I only paid $8500 for the tractor with new rear rubber and a great engine. If this engine should go to heck, I could probably repair or replace it for $2500. Much cheaper than those 56 series.
This makes me think that I should be running more common (cheaper) tractors. A 1066 or 1086 could probably replace the 1256 and 1456 and I would have much less at risk if I should have troubles, or need parts.
Now, I have just taken a look at a 1206 that I think I need, I'd love this tractor, but would be in the same boat as those 56 series, at risk of expensive breakdowns.
These older tractors seem to just be going up in value, making me think I should keep them, but boy if I should have a large breakdown, I would be underwater in a hurry. And if the values should go down on these tractors, I'd sure be a fool for hanging on to them.
Bottom line is....I love the heck out of them, but can't help but wonder if keeping them around and using them as my main tractors is a good idea, especially as my farm grows and they get used and relied upon more and more. What are your thoughts??