• Mapex Jamaica
• News
• September 23, 2016
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You have finally acquired or leased that plot of land you have been eyeing for months. You have plans to develop the land but need help buying the right tractor for your farm. Where do you start? The first thing you need to take in account is:

Buying a Tractor? What Jobs should the Tractor complete?

Visualize all the processes for day to day operation and future operation. Will you need to mow? Dig holes to fence in areas? Are you growing crops and need to prepare land? Will you be digging? Lifting?

List these functions on a piece of paper or a spreadsheet.

You will want a single tractor that is capable of completing all these jobs at first. Try to figure out what the minimum size tractor would be able to barely complete all these tasks and buy a tractor 1 step larger. For instance, if you need a 60 HP tractor, for all the implements and attachments you deem necessary, you should invest in a 70 HP tractor. This may not make sense initially, but the additional wear and tear of having a tractor that is barely able to complete the functions is usually costlier than acquiring a tractor that is able to cruise through functions with minimal wear. A slightly larger tractor also gives you some leeway for additional functions and growth.

Properly Budgeting for your new Tractor.

A tractor, unlike a car, could be factored into your budget as giving you decades of service. A properly maintained tractor can last upward of 30 years, all while plowing, mowing and towing. Also, to do a proper budgeting you should acquire an estimated cost for warranty services for the next years’ worth of use on your tractor. Spending the money on service adhering to the warranty schedule is easily the best ongoing investment you can make in your tractor. It ensures you don’t break the warranty procedures which in the case of an unfortunate incident can save you significant cash.

Parts availability.

Your tractor is inevitably going to need spare parts. Ensure your dealer carries a significant stock of spare parts for your tractor. Buying that foreign or smaller brand tractor can save you money upfront, but in the long run, not having access to parts will be a net loss on the productivity of your farm and of your tractor. Every day your tractor sits idle waiting on repairs and spare parts is a day your tractor is not recouping its initial cost.

For additional information please read the following articles. Article 1.