Call it what you will: a mower, mover, cultivator or grader.
The list of names can go on and on, but in reality, this machine is your
tractor, and, depending on the attachments you use, it can transform into
almost any kind of heavy-duty outdoor tool you want. The key is finding the right
attachments.
"Attachments are the arms and legs that essentially
give versatility and functionality to your tractor. When you match the right
tractor with the right attachments, you have an invaluable multipurpose tool
that makes outdoor chores go faster, and better yet, more enjoyable,"
explains Dan Paschke, from John Deere Commercial and Consumer Equipment
Division. To help people match attachments with needs, Paschke provides answers
to some frequently asked questions:
Q: With so many attachments available, how do I decide what
I really need?
A: Your dealer can be an excellent resource. Some factors to
consider are:
Tasks: What do you want to do with your tractor?
Speed: How fast do you want to operate?
Space: Consider storage space and if you will be working
around any obstacles.
Q: How does my choice of tractor factor into my choice of
attachments?
A: The tractor is the key factor in ensuring that
attachments operate properly. Some ways to determine if your tractor is capable
of operating attachments are:
PTO, or Power Take Off horsepower-rather than engine
horsepower-is a good gauge of a tractor's true capabilities to handle
attachments.
If you are working with attachments or implements that
require frequent changes in direction or speed, you may want to consider a
tractor that has a more user-friendly transmission, such as a hydrostatic or
power reverser.
The higher the GPM (gallons per minute), the better the
hydraulic power. A tandem hydraulic pump provides power to both the steering
and implements without robbing power from the other.
Q: Isn't it cumbersome to remove and replace attachments
from the tractor all of the time?
A: Not always. For instance, John Deere offers the iMatch
Quick Hitch on its tractors. This innovative and affordable feature allows
operators to easily connect attachments to their tractor without leaving the
operator seat. Simply back up your tractor and slide on the PTO shaft.
Q: What challenges come with buying attachments that are
made by a different manufacturer than my tractor?
A: John Deere and Frontier attachments are designed to be
fully integrated with John Deere tractors, thus ensuring optimum performance
from that attachment. And for customers owning a John Deere tractor with
iMatch, nearly all of these implements and attachments are iMatch compatible.
Off-brand implements and attachments can work as well, but there are some
potential pitfalls. First, you frequently get what you pay for. Second,
warranties, guarantees and dealer support may not be what you would expect. Finally,
you may lose a lot of ease of use.
Q: Are there any safety issues to be aware of when working
with attachments?
A: A rule of thumb for safely operating attachments is to
understand and follow counterbalance guidelines. Attachments have different weights
and can change the center of gravity, causing a potential tipping hazard. Your
dealer should walk you through how to counterbalance your tractor for the best
and safest operating practices.
Q: Where is the best place to look for attachments?
A: An area dealer is a great place to start because they
have the knowledge, resources and expertise at their fingertips to give you the
exact requirements to make sure your attachments and machine are used properly
and effectively.
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