Home > Lawn & Garden > Home Gardening > Equipment > Compact Tractors > Old Farm Tractors as Alternatives to Compact Utility Tractors [Image: new compact tractor] Although there are some imported compact tractors available under $10,000, most compact tractors from major manufacturers are in the $10,000 – $20,000 range. Older farm tractors can be a less expensive alternative to compact tractors. Safe Operation of Riding Mowers and Lawn/Garden Tractors [Image: mower discharge chute] Riding mowers, lawn tractors, lawn and garden tractors, and garden tractors are large and powerful. They can be dangerous if not used safely. How To Choose a Lawn/Garden Tractor - Power To Implements [Image: belt drive to mower deck] A mower deck can’t cut grass unless it is connected to the tractor engine. This is usually done in one of two ways, with some possible permutations. Advice For Choosing Compact Utility Tractor Tires Owners of compact utility tractors can choose among three types of rear tires and at least five types for the front. The different types of tires serve different purposes, says Dr. Dick Parish, an engineer at the LSU AgCenter’s Hammond Research Station.  more articles... Compact Tractor Selection, Use and Safety [Image: Image of document] Tractors from major manufacturers tend to be well-designed, reliable and a pleasure to use. You can choose from a wide range of sizes, prices and features as well as a wide range of implements and accessories. This publication helps you select a tractor to meet your needs. (PDF Format Only) How To Choose a Lawn/Garden Tractor - Cost and Life Two questions of interest to prospective purchasers are: How much do riding mowers and small tractors in the various classes cost and how long can I expect one to last? Will an ASAE Standard Quick Hitch Fit? [Image: ASAE standard quick hitch] The advantages of an ASAE standard quick hitch include faster, easier and safer hitching. To use a ASAE standard quick hitch, the implement hitch geometry must conform to the ASAE standard. Implements for Compact Utility Tractors [Image: Subcompact tractor with mid-mount mower and rotary tiller] The tractor by itself is of limited use. The tractor furnishes the power, but the implements allow the tractor to do useful work. Varied implements are available for compact tractors from both the tractor manufacturers and short-line manufacturers. Adjusting Finishing Mowers [Image: finishing mower with 4 wheels] Finish (or grooming) mowers typically have (two or) three blades and are designed for quality mowing of turfgrass. They are not designed to cut tall, weedy grass. They have multiple gage wheels and rollers that allow a relatively low cutting height with minimal scalping. Adjusting Mid-Mount Tractor Mowers Mid-mount mowers for lawn, garden, and compact tractors typically have (two or) three blades and are designed for quality mowing of turfgrass. They are not designed to cut tall, weedy grass. They have multiple gage wheels and rollers that allow a relatively low cutting height with minimal scalping. PTO Generators for Tractors [Image: PTO generator] Although most people opt for small engine-driven generators, there are some real advantages to a generator that connects to a tractor power-take-off (PTO). Protect Your Hydraulic Cylinders from Rust [Image: rusted and pitted hydraulic cylinder] A common problem with hydraulic cylinders is rust and pitting of the cylinder rods. If equipment that incorporates hydraulic cylinders is stored outside with the cylinder rods extended, the rods are exposed to weathering. Eventually, the rods will begin to show specks of rust that develop into pits. Once rusting and pitting occur, the rod will destroy the cylinder seal the next time it is activated. Shift Up and Throttle Down to Save Fuel When performing such light-duty operations as mowing grass or making hay, it is sometimes possible to reduce fuel consumption by shifting to a higher gear and reducing engine rpm. What Equipment Manufacturers Do To Reduce Rust Farm and grounds maintenance equipment is often exposed to rain, high humidity, fertilizer, pesticides and corrosive plant materials (such as grass clippings). The manufacturers of that equipment have taken steps to try to protect the equipment and reduce the potential for corrosion. Click for more information...