When you're considering a utility tractor, you may be overwhelmed with the amount of information available. If you've
never purchased a tractor before, all that information can be confusing, rather than helpful. That's why the tractor experts at Ongmac have put together this guide just for you. The following can help you learn everything you need to know, from how much horsepower you need to understanding your transmission choices.

A POWERFUL UNDERSTANDING.

Tractor power is measured in horsepower, like any engine powered vehicle. Generally, you can get a utility tractor with engine horsepower rated from 18 up to 90. It's good to know the horsepower capabilities of a tractor, but it doesn't really tell you what a tractor can do. Higher horsepower doesn't necessarily mean more useable power.

What is PTO horsepower?
The second horsepower number that you'll see for a tractor is PTO horsepower because it indicates the actual "useable" power that the tractor has to operate implements. PTO stands for Power Take Off. The PTO drives many implements, and the PTO horsepower is a good gauge of the tractor's true capabilities. The PTO connects the tractor's engine to the implement through a rotating shaft at the rear of the tractor. If you compare utility tractors by PTO horsepower, be careful. Some manufacturers rate the tractor at maximum PTO speed instead of the standard 540 rpm. This can be confusing, but don't worry. Ongmac can help you decide what tractor best fits your horsepower needs.

Do you really need a utility tractor?
A garden tractor is less expensive, that's true. And if you're primary need for a tractor is mowing grass and light dirtwork, it may meet your needs. But if you intend to cut brush, do tilling or loader work, you should consider a utility tractor.

Secrets from the pros:

• Invest in a little more tractor than you think you need. If you buy the minimum horsepower to operate your implements, the machine will be in a constant state of strain.
• How large of a tractor you buy is determined in part by how much time you want to spend doing work. Large tractors can cover ground more quickly than small tractors.

THE EASY SHIFT

Transmission choices for your tractor are much the same as on your car or truck. Gear-driven or "manual" transmissions use mechanical systems. Hydrostatic or "automatic" transmissions use a hydraulic-based system. Hydrostatic transmissions are found mostly on utility tractors under 40 horsepower. As you move up in horsepower range, gear driven transmissions are the most common, as they are the most efficient and reliable for heavy-duty work. There are three basic categories of gear-type transmissions: non-synchronized, partially synchronized, and fully synchronized.

Non-synchronized
A non-synchronized transmission is an economical, reliable choice when used for the right jobs. With this transmission, you must depress the clutch, stop the tractor, and shift gears. This can be tiresome for applications where you need to change speeds or directions frequently (such as loader work). However, for mowing or plowing, this transmission - sometimes called a collar-shift transmission - is a good choice.

Partially synchronized
A smoother and more flexible system than non-synchronized, this transmission allows clutching and shifting between gears without stopping the tractor. Speed or direction changes can be made more easily.

Fully synchronized
Shift on the go - you can shift gears without stopping the tractor or depressing the clutch. Tractors have a combination of ranges (such as A, B, and C) and gears to give you a choice of several travel speeds.

Hydrostatic Transmissions
Most similar to the automatic transmission in a car, a hydrostatic transmission is usually the most expensive. However, it's the most user-friendly, with instant direction and unlimited speed changes. It's easy to quickly get the exact speed you want for a task.

What is torque?
Simply put, torque is the ability of the tractor's drive wheels to turn. It's measured in ft-lbs or N-m. (Technically speaking, it's force multiplied by the distance from a specific point.) The greater a tractor's torque, the easier it will be to pull through tough patches. Look for tractors that have high torque engines - especially those that increase torque as the engine speed slows down from the tractor's rated engine speed. These will have more success in the toughest chores.

Secrets from the pros:

• If you do front-loader work, you may want 4wd (also called Mechanical Front Wheel Drive, of MFWD). If you're just doing mowing, than you may not.
• While a 4WD tractor will cost more, its resale value is higher than a 2WD tractor.
• 4WD is also one way to get more power and traction without sacrificing tractor size.

GO WITH THE FLOW: HYDRAULICS

Besides the engine and PTO, tractors have another important system for work: the hydraulic pump. It runs everything from power steering to loaders and backhoes. The capacity of a hydraulic pump is measured in gallons per minute (GPM), and the higher the number, the better the hydraulic power. There are two kinds of hydraulic systems, open-center and closed-center. An open-center hydraulic system has control valves that are always open to the reservoir when in the neutral position. As a result, the pump is constantly sending oil through the valves and back to the reservoir providing a quick response, since the system is always "ready." The valves on closed-center systems remain closed when in neutral, and the pump is idle until called on for flow.

What are SCV's?
Selective Control Valves (SCV's) are the `nerve center' of the hydraulic system. They control the amount and direction of the hydraulic flow. Most implements require at least one SCV to lift or lower, fold or adjust. The number of SCV's you'll need will depend greatly on the implements you'll be using. Loaders require a minimum of 2 SCV's. Some tractors have SCV couplers placed in the middle of the tractor to make loader hook-up and removal easier, plus they leave the rear SCV couplers free for additional implements.

Secrets from the pros:

• Some tractors have a single hydraulic pump that powers both steering and implements. This can cause diminished steering power when using a hydraulic implement with a heavy load (such as a full loader bucket).
• Many tractors have a tandem hydraulic pump which provides power to both the steering and implements, without one robbing power from the other.

MAKING THE CONNECTION: 3-POPINT HITCH

What's a 3-point hitch?
A 3-point hitch is based on three mounting points for the implement. The lift arms are the two steel or cast arms extending rearward. They provide the lift and are the pull-point for the implement. The top link is the third mounting point that extends from a top middle position at the rear of the tractor. It adjusts the angle/level of the implement.
If you want to use the maximum number of implements, you should buy a tractor with a true Category 1 or 2 3-point hitch. With this hitch you can attach one brand of implements to another's tractor. Although a garden tractor can accept some proprietary attachments such as tillers, moving up to a Category 1 3-point hitch expands your choice of implements.

• Category 0
  For tractors with up to 20 horsepower.
• Category 1
  For tractors with 20 to 50 horsepower.
• Category 2
  For tractors with 50 to 90 horsepower.

Secrets from the pros:

• Look for a quick-coupler hitch system. This system lets you quickly attach the implement without having to adjust hitch geometry. The quick hitch works with Cat 1 or 2 3-point hitch implements, no matters the brand.
• Ask Ongmac for a demonstration with or without the quick hitch so you can see for yourself the difference it makes.

A CASE FOR COMFORT: OPERATOR STATION

Research can't take the place of experiencing the tractor for yourself. The best way to determine whether the tractor will be easy to operate is to take it for a drive. Start with the seat - is it adjustable and comfortable? Surprisingly, some utility tractors don't offer adjustable seats. Familiarise yourself with the controls. Check your line of sight. Make sure the controls are visible from where you sit. Look around at the levers and joysticks. They should be conveniently placed, but out of the way of your feet and elbows.
There are several types of operator stations to choose from, and they vary in comfort and ease of use. Some, like an enclosed cab, offer many deluxe features and have a higher price. Other tractor models offer a flat floor, called an isolated platform, mounted onto the tractor frame with rubber mounts to decrease vibration and noise. Getting on and off the tractor is easier with the flat floor, since there aren't any levers to step over.

LOOK OUT FOR SAFETY

Before operating any tractor for the first time, ask Ongmac to show you the features and controls. And be sure to read the operator's manual.

Keep your balance
Make sure the front and rear of the tractor are balanced. Add extra weight to the rear of the tractor if you're lifting something heavy in front. It will keep the rear tires on the ground. The same goes for the front.

Get in the zone
Stay within the ROPS (RollOver Protection Structure) zone. This U-shaped bar over the seat protects the driver in a rollover. An imaginary line drawn from the top of the hood to the top of the ROPS should always be over the operator's head.

Buckle up
Wear your seat belt. ROPS is ineffective without the seat belt which keeps you inside the protection zone should the tractor roll over.

See the light
Turn on the headlights to make sure your tractor is visible when driving in low-light situations.

PTO need-to-know
The fast-moving PTO shaft running from the tractor to an implement is the number-one source of accidents. Make sure the PTO shaft is enclosed in a non-rotating collar (PTO shield) and turn off the PTO when inspecting an equipment problem or making repairs. Some tractors have an automatic PTO shut-off if you leave the tractor seat.

Turn it off
Turn off the engine and wait for it and all moving equipment to stop before dismounting the tractor.

Secrets of the pros:

• Keep children off the seat and out of work areas. Utility tractors have one seat-the operators.
• Ask if the tractor has an operator-presence system. This is a switch in the seat that automatically shuts off the engine when the operator is not seated.
• Have the dealer show you the features and controls before you get on.

MAKE YOUR TRACTOR WORK FOR YOU

It's important to consider which implements you need because they give your tractor the ability to tackle multiple tasks. Since implements have different horsepower requirements they can affect the tractor size that's right for your work. Start by making a list of the jobs you want to do around your property. Include how many acres you have to cover. Don't forget to consider any future needs. Perhaps you buy hay now, but you want to bale your own in a few years. Be sure to note the horsepower needs for that equipment.

Here are just a few chores your tractor can help you do with the right implements:

• Move dirt piles, silage, gravel, snow, hay bales, trees, and other materials. A front-end loader, powered by two hydraulic arms, can scoop, haul, dump, and push heavy materials.
• Spread manure. Manure spreaders are the most efficient means for disposing of manure onto cropland or pastures.
• Mow pastures, brush, and roadsides. Rotary cutters handle rough cutting, tackling weeds of varying thickness and density. They're available in several duty levels and cutting widths.
• Dirt work. A box blade is a useful leveling and earthmoving implement. In addition to minor re-grading and filling potholes, you can use a scraper to gather manure from sheds and confinement areas for removal and distribution.
• Digging holes. A posthole digger, or auger, is a must-have if you have miles of fence to install or maintain. The auger is turned by the PTO and raised on the three-point hitch, saving a lot of backbreaking labor.
• Putting up hay. Mower-conditioners that condition the hay stems after cutting for quicker curing, tedders that fluff the hay for quicker drying, and rakes that gather and turn the windrows, as well as balers, are all examples of hay tools. As for the right tractor power level to run the machinery, 35 horsepower is the rock-bottom limit, suitable for operating only the smallest hay tools.

OTHER THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW

The three R's of tires
There are three types of tires suitable for utility tractors:

• R1 (bar tread) tires provide the best traction, but can cause the most ground damage.
• R3 (turf tread) tires with less aggressive tread are meant for jobs like mowing and have the least traction.
• R4 (industrial-tread) tires have excellent traction, and are softer on turf than Rl's. They're often the preferred choice. A dealer can help you select the best tires for your needs.

Warranty
The manufacturer's warranty is a key consideration when purchasing a tractor. Most manufacturers offer a 24-month basic warranty and a 36-month powertrain warranty.

Cost of ownership
Don't forget that the cost of owning a tractor is not just the purchase price. Taking care of your tractor ensures a longer operating life and higher resale value. Operating costs include fuel, fluids, repairs and scheduled service, and can run anywhere from $10 to $200 per month, depending on the tractor's size and how often it's used. Keep in mind a used or lower quality tractor may have more repair costs. And, don't forget to factor in these items when estimating costs:

• Financing
• Sales tax
• Insurance

Maintenance
Ask Ongmac to show you how to check the battery, plus oil and other fluid levels. Are the service areas easily accessed? Do you need tools? To keep your tractor running smoothly, you should perform the following checks every time you use the tractor:

• Check air filter and coolant level
• Check engine oil level
• Check battery
• Check hydraulic oil level

BACKED BY A TEAM WHO CARES  -  ONGMAC.

Support
Why buy John Deere? When you purchase a John Deere tractor, you get much more than a piece of equipment. John Deere utility tractors are built with the same unparalleled quality and attention to detail that go into our large tractors. Some customers have been buying "green" for generations and the reason why is that no one builds higher quality, tougher tractors.

Service
You value your time and so do Ongmac. When you need a part, service or just some advice, you want it right now. Ongmac maintain a comprehensive inventory of genuine John Deere parts, which means you won't be
waiting for weeks to get what you need. All our service technicians know equipment inside and out and can get you back up and running quickly. And the best part is, we're just a phone call or car ride away when it comes to getting hands-on advice.

Financing options
John Deere Credit offers the financial solutions you need when financing or leasing a new tractor:

• Flexible terms
• Flexible down payments
• Competitive fixed- and variable-rate loans and leases
• Flexible payment terms
• Fast approvals

For complete details on financing or leasing your tractor with John Deere Credit, Contact Ongmac.