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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