Compact tractors are a mainstay on most operations, no matter the size. The once venerable “chore tractor” has grown up to include a more comfortable seat, better transmission (with shuttle) and, in some cases, even a cab.
Boosting the value of an investment in these machines can add value, too. A trip to any farm show offers a look at a range of tools that can make work around the farm easier because you maximize use of the power available. Tractor attachments, which also are often available for skid-steer machines, put that hydraulic power to work on a variety of tasks.
This roundup includes several new compact tractors coming to market with added features.
Compact tractors
The new machines from Bad Boy, Branson, LS and Tym show these companies continue to raise their game in operator convenience and comfort. New cab options are becoming available for running these machines year-round with the attachments available.
Most of the new machines give buyers an option with gear drive or hydrostatic transmissions, allowing you to decide your investment and use needs. The hydrostatic transmission has long been an option for the compact tractor class, providing near “automatic transmission” use for operators who may not live in a tractor seat all the time.
The gear-driven models often come with a shuttle for quick movement from forward to reverse, a must for these machines since most leave the showroom with a loader attached. Loader work is simplified because you can change directions easily.
Plenty of attachments
Whether you’re using a small tractor or a skid-steer loader, you’ll find useful attachments in this roundup. While compact tractors are the start of the slideshow, the attachments featured include machines that work with larger tractors or skid-steer loaders.
The skid-steer loader continues to be the ultimate tool carrier on any jobsite from farm to construction. And most attachment makers these days include ways their tools can be linked to a tractor or skid-steer.
If you’re looking for that “special something” to make your life a little easier, we may have found it for you. Check out this slideshow to learn more and find links to the suppliers for more information.
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<p>COMPANY EXPANDS INTO TRACTORS: Bad Boy, known for its lawn mowers and off-road vehicles, is marketing tractors now targeted at the same audience. The company’s slogan, “Work With an Attitude,” is a hallmark of the design for these tractors, built by South Korea tractor maker Kukje Machinery Co. Ltd. The company is offering a full range of tractors. The 10 Series features two models — the 1022 at 21.5 engine hp and the 1025 at 24.6 engine hp. Both feature a hydrostatic transmission and can be outfitted with loaders, as shown. Suggested list price for the machine shown is $30,826 (with loader). To learn more, call <a href="http://www.badboytractors.com" target="_blank">badboytractors.com</a>.</p>
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<p>OPEN-STATION TRACTOR UPGRADE: The 15 Series from Branson features 10 models in R and H trim. The R models in the line feature a 12F/12R Synchro Shuttle transmission; the H models feature a hydrostatic transmission. Power ranges from 24 to 48 engine hp. The 2515H shown has a suggested list price of $29,500 when outfitted with a loader. To learn more, call <a href="http://www.bransontractor.com" target="_blank">bransontractor.com</a>.</p>
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<p>CAB ADDED TO SOME MODELS: The 15 Series line from Branson Tractor features cab versions of three top models — 3515Ch at 35 engine hp, 4215Ch at 42 engine hp and the 4815Ch at 48 engine hp. The “C” designates a cab model, and all feature a hydrostatic transmission. Suggested list price with loader (a common configuration) is $40,800. To learn more, call <a href="http://www.bransontractor.com" target="_blank">bransontractor.com</a>.</p>
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<p>COMPACT TRACTOR WITH 5 MODELS: LS Tractors launched the MT2E series with five models ranging from 30 to 40 engine hp, with an open station and cab. Three models feature a 12F/12R synchro-shuttle and two feature a three-range hydrostatic transmission. A mid-mount PTO is also an option. To learn more, call 252-984-0700 or visit <a href="https://lstractorusa.com/" target="_blank">lstractorusa.com</a>.</p>
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<p>CUSTOMER-DRIVEN DESIGN: The T25 from Tym Tractors is loaded with features based on customer feedback. From a two-pedal hydrostatic transmission to a suspended seat with armrests, the machine is a feature-filled subcompact tractor. The Yanmar engine supplies 24.7 hp. Suggested list price for the tractor shown is $18,200. To learn more, visit <a href="http://www.tym.world/" target="_blank">tym.world</a>.</p>
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<p>BALE ACCUMULATOR: Efficiency sets the foundation for the design of the Tubeline Accumul8 Retriever, says Tubeline staff. This skid loader-mounted bale accumulator offers a 10-bale grapple to increase the productivity of moving small square bales. This elimination of handling also reduces broken bales and leaf loss. Plus, the adjustable side rails can handle bales ranging from 34 to 40 inches in length. To learn more, call 888-856-6613 or visit <a href="http://www.tubeline.ca/" target="_blank">tubeline.ca</a>.</p>
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<p>INDIVIDUAL BALE WRAPPER: Need a bale wrapper, but you don’t want to purchase large-scale equipment? The TL1100R is an automatic individual bale wrapper from Tubeline made with small- and medium-sized operations in mind. Tubeline staff say this wrapper can be mounted and connected to tractor hydraulics, or used independently when paired with the optional hydraulic power pack. Plus, the TL1100R makes bale wrapping a one-person job with a wireless remote that controls all the functions. To learn more, call 888-856-6613 or visit <a href="http://www.tubeline.ca/" target="_blank">tubeline.ca</a>.</p>
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<p>SILAGE AND HAYLAGE RAKE: Tubeline has released Pitbull Rakes, a universal tool that allows producers to push and carry forage. How does it work? Tines on the bottom and bale spears on the side create a bucket effect for carrying material. And the push plate with guides can smoothly push forage off the tips of the tines. To learn more, call 888-856-6613 or visit <a href="http://www.tubeline.ca/" target="_blank">tubeline.ca</a>.</p>
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<p>TREE PULLER WITH MUSCLE: On a search for a tree puller attachment? Consider the Tree Puller XTP from RSE Fabrication, priced at $3,745. This product not only is a tree puller and stump bucket in one, but also is fully welded and has a large cylinder for more strength. Other features include a 30-inch opening, greaseable pivot points and an optional brush guard. To learn more, call 660-254-4092 or visit <a href="http://www.rsefab.com/" target="_blank">rsefab.com</a>.</p>
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<p>MAKE QUICK WORK OF STUMPS: Got stumps? The new Stump Auger from Danuser can help you drill your problems away. The machine is a standard 2-inch hex auger attachment that plains away stumps without the need for large, specialized equipment. A threaded pilot digs into the stump, and large cutting blades plane the stump away (note the chips to the right). Suggested list price is $895 for the 10-inch model, or $1,018 for the 16-inch model. To learn more, call 573-642-2246 or visit <a href="http://www.danuser.com/" target="_blank">danuser.com</a>.</p>
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<p>DRIVE POSTS IN QUICKLY: The new Hornet Post Driver from Danuser makes short work of installing posts or pipes. The machine uses a hydraulic jack hammer-style power cell. The Model T7 drives up to 7-inch diameter posts and pipes with 500 to 900 blows per minute. The Model T8-RR (shown) drives T-posts up to 8 inches in diameter and can drive railroad ties with the optional RR tie driving tool. The machine uses 400 to 800 blows per minute. To learn more, call 573-642-2246 or visit <a href="http://www.danuser.com/" target="_blank">danuser.com</a>.</p>
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<p>GRAPPLE FOR TOUGH JOBS: MDS has launched a new articulated quad-grip grapple designed for pulling and squeezing material into the bucket. The unit has a minimal closing gap, features a large opening and has 11,000 pounds of clamping force. To learn more, call 605-928-7951 or visit <a href="http://www.mdsmfg.com/" target="_blank">mdsmfg.com</a>.</p>
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<p>HYDRAULIC FORKS FOR SKID STEERS: The MDS pallet forks feature a hydraulic shifting design so the user can adjust width right from the skid-steer cab. The MDS Class 2 ITA Pallet Forks System with hydraulic shifting forces is designed for universal skid-steer, Euro/Global and JD Classic designs. To learn more, call 605-928-7951 or visit <a href="http://www.mdsmfg.com/" target="_blank">mdsmfg.com</a>.</p>
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<p>RUGGED TREE-CLEARING ATTACHMENT: Got trees you need pulled? Trying to remove a post? The Tree Gator from MDS may be the right choice. This skid-steer attachment features an abrasion-resistant “working arm” that grips the tree or post for easy pulling out of the ground. To learn more, call 605-928-7951 or visit <a href="https://www.mdsmfg.com/" target="_blank">mdsmfg.com</a>.</p>
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<p>DIG HOLES WITH EASE: The SA10 Auger from Land Pride works with Kubota BX through LX series tractors with a minimum flow of 4 gallons per minute and a maximum of 8 gpm. The unit is designed to be operated by Land Pride’s third function valve. Auger options including 6, 9 and 12 inches. Suggested list price is $2,859. To learn more, visit <a href="http://www.landpride.com/" target="_blank">landpride.com</a>.</p>
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<p>PICK UP BIG LOADS: The GBE30 Grapple Bucket comes in 96- and 108-inch widths. The unit has a Euro mount and uses cast tines with adjustable mounts for variable spacing. The grapple can be attached with a quick-release four-pin mount, and the machine features an 84-inch jaw opening. An optional bolt-on cutting edge is also available. Suggested list price for the unit shown is $8,664. To learn more, visit <a href="http://www.landpride.com/" target="_blank">landpride.com</a>.</p>