An idiot's guide to buying tractors in India

Do not expect a Cabin and Air conditioner as they are not offered by all. Even a top is optional in some brands.

BHPian maddy42 recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

What tractor to buy?

We have a Tafe Massey Ferguson 36 horsepower tractor which is in 2wd format for the past 30 years, but the kind of equipment available plus the drastic labor shortage being faced has made me get back on the search bandawagon.

I am trying to make this easier for anyone who is getting into this same issue.

Please go through these points before you get into this rabbit hole.

Do you need a tractor?

If you have the cash flow to manage its payments or make a complete payment, please go ahead. But if you are a small scale subsistence farmer, be aware it can be very expensive and ruin your life.

Are you a large land holder? More then 10 acres cultivated with two crops a year?

Full size tractor is better suited.

Do you plan on running the tractor on rent?

Look at a 35-50hp range of tractor. Do you plan on using it for ploughing or pulling trolley load. As bigger tractor can have mileage issues which could affect your profitability.

Do you have a small land holdings or orchards or areca farms?

Mini tractor is suitable as it provides maneuverability and also lower cost of maintenance.

What is your budget? Does your budget include budget for Accessories ie Trailer, Plough, rotavator etc?

Below 7 lac has a wide range of 2wd below 40hp tractors. Above 7lac includes 4wd and bigger size tractors above 55 hp.

Which brands to choose?

This is the most confusing, Best suggestion is research for showrooms and service centers in your area.

Check the local mechanics, tractor rental drivers for their feedback.

The following are some of the names which come to my mind. None of it is a recommendation.

• Mahindra
• Massey Ferguson
• Eicher
• Swaraj
• New Holland
• John Deere
• Farmtrac
• Kubota
• Sonalika

These are to name a few. I may have missed some.

Now that you have the brands shortlisted, look for the Technical specifications.

• Horsepower.
• Torque
• CC
• Engine type
• Gearbox
• PTO
• Load capacity
• Fuel consumption.
• Hook type
• 2WD or 4WD

Lastly there are very few tractors which are akin to the ones you see in the west in photos. So do not expect a Cabin and Air conditioner as they are not offered by all. Even a top is optional in some brands.

Do check the websites, reviews on youtube, visit the showrooms talk to your neighbors before making a decision.

The salesmen can be a bit pushy, so you will get pushed and overwhelmed. Hold your ground.

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