The Ultimate Guide to Buying a New Tractor

Quick Navigation:

• When You Should Buy a New Tractor
• Before the Dealership
• Budget
• New or Used
• The Benefits of a New Tractor
• What To Look For in a Dealer
• What To Ask the Dealer
• Horsepower
• Tractor Size
• Transmission Systems
• Implements
• How To Choose Your Implements
• Find Your New Tractor With Holt Ag Solutions

So you're in the market for a new tractor. Maybe you need an upgrade, or you're looking for your first tractor and need a place to start. Whatever your situation, we've put together a comprehensive list of tractor buying tips to help you get started.

When You Should Buy a New Tractor

There are many reasons you might need to buy a farm tractor, whether you're expanding your operations or simply need a new machine. You may also be looking to replace an old machine. Signs that you will need a new tractor soon include:

• Your current tractor has worked 12,000 hours or more.
• You need to replace engine parts often.
• New technology is available.
• New parts are increasingly unavailable for the model you have.

If you're looking for your first tractor, rest assured that you have plenty of options available. Learning as much as you can about tractors and their uses can help guide you towards your best fit.

Before the Dealership

While dealership etiquette is similar, shopping for a tractor is different than shopping for a car. For one thing, tractors last years, even decades, longer than the average car. As long as you keep up with regular maintenance and proper use, you could even use that same tractor for the rest of your life. 

That's why the first thing you should do when buying a tractor — or any farm equipment — is to conduct plenty of research. This process should be slow and methodical. You want enough time to weigh all your options before buying your first tractor to make the best choice. 

Asking around is a good place to start because experienced farmers and tractor enthusiasts can tell you what you need to know, from red flags to look out for and any quirks specific models may have. Googling, reading product reviews and consulting with dealers should be your next step.

While you're researching, make a list of everything you need the tractor to be able to do. Consider these factors when buying your new or used tractor as your deal breakers.

Next, list everything that would be nice to have but isn't completely necessary. Things like an enclosed cab or a specific transmission system come to mind. Additionally, while it can help to know about brand specifications, it's better to focus on your own goals for the tractor. 

Budget

You should know exactly how much you can spend on a tractor before you look for one. That way, you can avoid setting your heart on a tractor that is entirely out of your price range. 

When calculating your budget, you should also factor in additional costs like repairs, add-ons and implements. Research what each dealership in your area charges for specific models and compare the prices you find. This method is beneficial when you already have a particular model in mind, but it can also help you determine the most reasonable price.

Additionally, opting out of unnecessary features where you can is a great way to save money. 

New or Used

Should you buy a new or a used tractor? That depends on your budget and your needs. You can save thousands by opting for a used vehicle, but the long-term investment of a new tractor might be better for your situation.

If you do plan to buy a used tractor, make sure you trust the seller. Ask them how they used the tractor. Did they ever experience anything out of the ordinary? What is the tractor's power takeoff horsepower (PTO-HP)? 

Here are some essential things to look for when you're inspecting a used tractor:

• Signs of wear: Check for leaks, rust, abnormal noises when driving or anything that seems off.
• Tire condition: Look out for bubbles, cracks and cuts in the tires.
• Hours per year: The average hours per year for your tractor should be below 900. Tractors logging more hours per year may require more extensive repairs in the future.
• Test drive: Just like with a new tractor, take it for a test drive. Make sure you feel comfortable with the transmission system and driving mechanics. 

If anything seems off to you, it might be best to look for a new seller. 

The Benefits of a New Tractor

While a used tractor might seem more affordable now, you should remember that there will be additional costs down the line. Because it's already logged some hours, you may need to bring this tractor in for more frequent repairs and maintenance. A new tractor will also last longer than a used one, which can be more cost-effective. 

You also want to consider technology and upgrades. How much longer will parts be available for a used tractor? With a new tractor, you have more time before it becomes obsolete. You're also more likely to find energy-efficient and emissions-compliant engines on newer machines, which is vital in the state of California. 

What To Look For in a Dealer

When you're buying a tractor, it's best to buy from someone you trust. Both the dealership and its individual representatives can give you clues as to whether this seller is a good fit.

Some important things you should look for when deciding on a dealership include:

• Inventory: A good dealership will have an extensive selection of tractors. If you're walking around the lot and notice that some models are well-stocked while others only have a few available, it might be worth looking elsewhere. 
• Facility: The dealership facility should be clean and organized, even if it's in an older building. A dirty or messy facility is a major red flag. 
• Ownership: Is it a small, family-owned business or a branch of a large company? This distinction can make all the difference in the kind of service you'll get moving forward.

It's also important to evaluate the sales representative who works with you. Larger dealerships will often have a sales team, but at smaller dealerships, the salespeople might be the owners themselves. 

Here are some traits of a good salesperson:

• Attitude: Your salesperson should have a polite, positive attitude. Essentially, they should feel open and approachable.
• Care: Your salesperson should be attentive and try to get a feel for your needs by asking questions and listening to your answers. 
• Knowledge: Your salesperson should be able to answer questions about their tractors, and if they can't remember something right away, they should know where to get that information.

Ultimately, when you choose a dealer, you're choosing a long-term business partner – if you feel at all like you're being mistreated, it's time to look somewhere else.

What To Ask the Dealer

Make sure you let your dealer know what you'll be doing with your tractor, both now and in the future. A good, well-maintained tractor can last decades, so you want to account for any changes in the size and scope of your operations moving forward. 

To get the best understanding of each model, you should ask your dealer about the following features and functions:

Horsepower

One of the most important things to consider when shopping for a tractor is the power you'll need. Generally, the bigger the tractor, the higher the horsepower.

There are two types of horsepower — the engine's horsepower and the power takeoff (PTO) horsepower. The engine horsepower refers to the full power the engine produces. This number is what many dealers will use to advertise their tractors.

On all tractors, features like hydraulic pumps, power steering and hydrostatic drive leech power from the engine in a process called parasitic loss. That loss means your actual horsepower is lower than what your engine is producing. That excess energy is what you will use to power your attachable implements. 

So why does PTO horsepower matter? If you need to use any implements, you'll need to know your PTO first. This should be a lower number than your engine power. Using an implement that requires higher power than what you have can be dangerous, resulting in a damaged tractor or even personal injury. 

Ultimately, your safest bet is to buy the biggest tractor that's reasonable for your needs. Choosing a tractor with high horsepower can ensure you have the energy to get the job done now and in the future if your tasks change.

Tractor Size

Tractors come in several different size categories, with lawn tractors being the smallest and agricultural tractors being the largest. We'll focus on the middle types here since they're the most common for commercial use:

• Sub-compact: Sub-compact tractors are the smallest commercial tractors available, with engines generating a total of 15 to 25 horsepower. Since they're so small, they're simple in terms of features and only suit light operations like mowing pastures and hauling dirt.
• Compact:Compact tractors weigh in at 4,000 lbs with a 40 to 60 horsepower engine. They're best for lighter commercial tasks like hauling small loads, removing snow and maintaining roads. Some larger models may come with an enclosed cab. 
• Utility: Utility tractors range from 40 to 100 horsepower and tend to come with more bells and whistles. Enclosed cabs are standard on these tractors, and some may even have advanced technology like computer systems or artificial intelligence (AI). They're most useful for heavy work like large-scale hay operations and livestock hauling.
• Compact utility: Compact utility tractors (CUT) are essentially smaller utility tractors. Their engines can range anywhere from 20 to 70 horsepower, and they often have similar features to utility tractors. These are best for smaller-scale operations that might require heavy lifting.

You need to know two things before choosing a specific size — your daily operations and the size of your land. If you need to squeeze into smaller spaces, buy a compact or sub-compact tractor. However, if you need high horsepower to do heavy tasks, you should look into something a little larger, like a utility tractor or a CUT. 

Transmission Systems

The transmission controls the power output in your tractor. Specifically, it controls your direction and speed.

There are four main types of transmission in tractors today — gear-drive, power shuttle, hydrostatic and continuously variable transmission (CVT).

1. Gear-drive: A classic transmission system, the gear-drive is the oldest and most straightforward in use today. It uses a clutch and gear shift mechanism to change the tractor's speed and direction. This type of transmission is generally more affordable than others and allows for greater PTO horsepower. However, the clutches in this system are typically not lubricated with oil, so they tend to wear down faster.
2. Power shuttle: A gear-based transmission system that automatically clutches and shifts gears based on the tractor's speed and rpm. This transmission is most helpful if you frequently shift between forward and reverse, like with a front loader. Additionally, the clutch is usually lubricated, giving it smoother control and a longer lifespan.
3. Hydrostatic: This type of transmission relies on pressurized oil to turn the wheels. It changes the direction and speed by adjusting the amount of oil flowing to the hydraulic motor. Hydrostatic transmission maintenance involves regularly changing the oil, cleaning oil cooler fins and changing the filters.
4. Continuously variable transmission (CVT): At the moment, CVT is rare in smaller tractor systems. It automatically shifts based on the pedal input from the operator. These incredibly efficient transmission systems use less water than hydrostatic and wear out slower than gear-drive systems. 

If you're interested in a gear-shift transmission, there are also four subtypes to consider:

• Sliding gear: A shift fork slides the gears into position.
• Collar shift: Instead of sliding the gears directly into position, this system places a fork and collar between each gear to increase reliability.
• Synchro: This system is like a collar shift with a synchronizer, which slows the shifting process to prevent gear grinding. As a result, synchro systems provide a quieter shift. 
• Power shift: These transmissions replace the collar with a clutch pack for more effortless shifting. Depending on the model, you can shift by pressing a button or pulling a lever.

Some transmission systems will be better for your purposes than others, so make sure to ask your dealer for their recommendation. 

Implements

The tractor's implements are the attachable parts that carry out your intended actions. Common tractor implements include:

• Cutters: These implements typically attach to the back of a tractor to cut grass and weeds as the tractor moves. 
• Rotary tillers: Rotary tillers attach to the back of your tractor and till the soil behind it using rotating tines. 
• Front-end loaders: These versatile implements attach to the front of your tractor to lift and carry heavy loads depending on whether you add other parts. You can connect it to other tools like pallet loaders or buckets to fulfill more specific purposes.
• Rear blades: These blades attach to the back of the tractor and flatten the ground. They're useful for scraping surfaces to reach the bottom layer, such as large expanses of snow or when creating level paths.

How To Choose Your Implements

Once you know what you need, it's time to choose the specific model. Knowing how much horsepower your tractor can supply is a great start, as each model will have different power needs. Your implement's horsepower should be within your tractor's PTO range.

• Weight: Your tractor should lift the implement and whatever you need the implement to move. 
• Width: Your implement should fit the tractor in terms of physical size as well as weight. The appropriate width depends on the implement, so speak to your dealer if you have any questions.
• Components: You need the right pins and attachments to securely hook your implement to your tractor. Look into what each model requires and make sure you either have or can buy the right parts.

In general, as long as you stick to the rule of matching your implement to your tractor, you should be on the right track. 

Find Your New Tractor With Holt Ag Solutions 

Holt Ag Solutions is a trusted source for large-scale farm equipment in California. Our knowledgeable staff is happy to help you find a suitable model for your operation, or you can browse our inventory online.

Contact us to speak with a representative today, or request a quote if you have a specific vehicle in mind. 

Guide to Farm Equipment Maintenance

Every farmer knows the importance of having quality farming equipment that is in good working order at all times. When something goes wrong, it can mean downtime and serious losses in productivity, crops, and income. A malfunctioning tractor, combine or another piece of equipment can mean an extra trip for repairs or waiting on a service call, all while getting behind on important farm chores. 

Fortunately, keeping up with preventative maintenance of farm equipment can help prevent some of these disturbances, keeping your farm running smoothly and decreasing downtime. 

10 Farm Equipment Maintenance Tips 

• 1. Keep All Documents Organized
• 2. Perform Regular Oil Changes
• 3. Lubricate Moving Parts
• 4. Check All Hitches and Tires
• 5. Inspect Any Lights on the Vehicle and the Batteries
• 6. Calibrate Special Equipment
• 7. Keep Machinery Clean
• 8. Inspect For Damage
• 9. Store Equipment Indoors When Possible
• 10. Avoid Customizing Or Modifying Engines

Proper maintenance of farm machinery and equipment is crucial, and we've gathered some of our favorite maintenance tips to help you remain organized and keep your equipment in optimal shape. Follow these maintenance tips to protect your farm equipment:

1. Keep All Documents Organized 

Whether you use a home office, a shed or a corner of a barn, make sure you have an organized system for keeping any records and documents — including receipts, owner's manuals, dealership information, warranties and service records. Keep accurate records of all repairs and maintenance work, whether you perform it yourself or hire a professional. 

Create a farm equipment maintenance checklist for regular tasks that should be completed monthly or annually. You can also make a chart to plan any upcoming maintenance routines, and keep it displayed on the wall. Use a filing system for all other records and documents. 

2. Perform Regular Oil Changes 

Many types of farm equipment need similar maintenance performed on regular schedules, just like your car. Tractors and other machines also need regular oil changes to keep running optimally, so be sure to keep up a regular schedule of oil changes for all your farm equipment. Be sure to check any oil filters and replace them as recommended by the manufacturer. 

While you are doing oil changes, consider having a professional oil analysis done. This is a simple test that can diagnose and prevent larger issues down the road. All you need to do is bring in a small oil sample to your dealer for testing. 

3. Lubricate Moving Parts 

Farm machinery is complex, with many moving parts. Keep your equipment in good working order by lubricating all moving parts regularly. The frequency may depend on your local climate and the manufacturer's recommendations. 

4. Check All Hitches and Tires 

Regularly inspect trailer hitches and the couplings on all trailers and equipment that you pull, as well as on any tractors, trucks or ATVs that you use to pull the equipment. Ensure these parts are working properly and can securely connect. Clean off any excess dirt or rust, if possible.

In addition, inspect the tires on all your farm machinery. Check the treads for signs of wear, and make sure tires are all inflated to the recommended level. Don't forget about the spare tires during your check-ins, and make arrangements to replace any tires that are worn out. Having quality tires that are inflated properly helps your machines run more efficiently, and it can save you a bit on gas mileage. 

5. Inspect Any Lights on the Vehicles and the Batteries 

Check all brake lights, signal lights and any other lighting on your equipment. Attach trailers and ensure all lights are working on these as well. If you have another person help you complete this task, it may be easier and quicker. Properly working lights ensure your equipment operates safely.

Inside the equipment, watch for signs of corrosion on any of your batteries. This can lead to stalling and loss of power to the vehicle. Check batteries to make sure they are charged, if possible. If you have some equipment that is only used seasonally, consider storing the batteries indoors while the machinery is not in use —especially if you don't have room indoors for the whole vehicle. This can protect your batteries' life spans. 

6. Calibrate Special Equipment 

If you use devices that have thermometers, scales, metal detectors or other specialized equipment, make sure to check the devices and recalibrate at regular intervals to keep everything safe and accurate. 

7. Keep Machinery Clean 

This may seem counterproductive on a farm, where everything tends to get dirty constantly, but occasionally cleaning off your farm equipment can help protect it. This is especially important at the end of a season or right before storing the equipment to prevent staining and rust spots from forming. You can use a broom to gently brush away debris like grass or hay on things like hay equipment, and then use a hose to wash off any accumulated dirt and dust. 

8. Inspect for Damage 

Farm machinery handles a lot and can easily be damaged from regular use. After every use, or at least before storing and at regular intervals, inspect your equipment for any signs of damage. Loose pieces, strange noises and other telltale signs of damage indicate that maintenance may be required. It's best to take care of these issues before they become worse problems. 

9. Store Equipment Indoors When Possible 

Preventative maintenance of farm tools and equipment also involves keeping them protected from the elements. If you have a garage or barn for your equipment, this is the best option for proper storage when not in use. If you do not have room to store equipment inside, consider other options, such as an overhang, that can keep rain and snow off the machinery. 

If the equipment must stay outside, you can cover it with tarps to offer some protection. Anything you can do to protect your equipment from the weather can help preserve your investment and keep it running much longer. 

10. Avoid Customizing or Modifying Engines

For many farmers, it can be tempting to try to attempt larger repairs themselves or modify farm equipment to better suit their purposes. While this may have worked with older equipment, today's machines have internal computers and complicated parts that can be easily damaged with modifications. Additionally, this type of "fix" is likely to void any warranties you may have, and it is not recommended by manufacturers and dealers. If you are wondering about a specific modification, check with your dealer first for solutions. 

Farm Equipment Services From Holt Ag Solutions

You know the importance of the proper maintenance of agricultural machinery and equipment, and we do too. Even with the best preventative maintenance, breakdowns still happen and problems occur. This is when it's best to have a professional service technician take a look. At Holt Ag Solutions, we have the experience and knowledge to accurately and quickly diagnose and fix your farm maintenance issue. Learn more about our farm equipment services online, or contact us today to request service for your farm equipment. 

Farm Equipment Safety Tips

Quick Navigation:

• Importance of Farm Equipment Safety Principles
• Top Farm Equipment Safety Rules and Tips
  • Follow State and Federal Laws
  • Review Equipment Manual
  • Stay Well-Rested
  • Avoid Drugs and Alcohol
  • Adjust Equipment as Needed
  • Wear Protective Clothing
  • Equip Tractors With Roll Over Protective Structures
• Farm Equipment Road Safety Tips

When you want to keep your farm running efficiently and safely, you'll need to implement a few safety best practices. Since farm equipment can be dangerous when improperly operated, farm equipment safety standards are some of the most important standards you can implement. With an understanding of proper farm equipment safety tips, you can better protect your staff from injuries and machinery from damages that lead to downtime. 

Find out more about the importance of farm equipment safety standards and some of the top farm equipment safety tips for use on the road and in the field.

Importance of Farm Equipment Safety Principles

Given the type of work and machines farming requires, it can be a dangerous profession. One of the biggest causes of accidents on a farm is the improper use of equipment. Since farmers want to keep their operators and employees as safe as possible, following the best safety practices when using farming tools and equipment is crucial.

Proper safety principles can help lower the risk of injuries and protect your equipment from damage. They can also keep your business more productive, as you'll reduce downtime due to operator injury or machines needing repairs. Additionally, having farm equipment safety standards in place can help you avoid federal or state government fines due to noncompliance.

Top Farm Equipment Safety Rules and Tips

Learn more about the top safety practices in using farm tools and equipment below:

1. Follow State and Federal Laws

Since heavy-duty farm equipment can lead to major injuries when used improperly, several state and federal laws govern their use. To operate your equipment safely and avoid fines, follow any federal and state farm equipment safety rules. Some common regulations include marking and lighting requirements for machinery, especially when operators drive equipment on public roads.

2. Review Equipment Manual

Before you operate farm equipment, always take time to read the owner's manual and follow any directions for proper operation. Even if you're used to driving a specific type of machine, like a tractor or combine, you should still review the owner's manual for any piece of equipment you add to your farm equipment fleet. A new tractor may have some major differences from your old one, so it's best to review the equipment manual and ensure you know how to operate it safely.

3. Stay Well-Rested

Heavy-duty farm equipment can do a lot of damage to operators, bystanders and property when it's not used properly. Operator fatigue is a huge source of accidents, as operators are more likely to make mistakes or even fall asleep at the wheel. If you're feeling fatigued, don't operate a piece of machinery. Get your rest first before taking the wheel.

4. Avoid Drugs and Alcohol

A single drink can impair your ability to operate machinery safely. When you're operating a piece of machinery, avoid using drugs or alcohol that could affect your judgment and lead to an accident. Stay as alert as possible by ensuring you're totally sober before operating farm equipment. 

5. Adjust Equipment as Needed

Another key practice for safe use of farm tools and equipment is to adjust your equipment to your operational needs. For example, it's crucial your access doors, guards and shield are in place when you operate farm equipment. If your operational conditions change, make the needed alterations to these components to fit the new factors and keep your operators as safe as possible.

6. Wear Protective Clothing

When you're operating farm machinery, avoid wearing loose-fitting pants or shirts. These clothes can get caught in rotating machine parts and lead to injury. Instead, wear protective clothing that reduces the risk of injuries and protects an operator in an accident.

7. Equip Tractors With Roll Over Protective Structures

A roll over protective structure (ROPS) is crucial to the safe operation of tractors. Since the risk of fatalities is much higher when a tractor rolls over or flips and doesn't have a ROPS, safety-focused businesses outfit their tractors with them. When you're looking for new tractors, see if they're already outfitted with a factory-installed ROPS. If you have a piece of older equipment, invest in a ROPS to better protect your workers. 

Farm Equipment Road Safety Tips

When you're taking your farm equipment on the road, it's important to keep yourself, any passengers and other motorists sharing the road safe. Below are some of the top road safety tips for farm equipment:

• Ensure your equipment is visible: Whether you're taking a compact tractor or a large spreader out on the road, your equipment should be highly visible to other motorists. Before you drive heavy machinery on the road, verify its flashers and lights work appropriately. Equipment should also have reflective tape on it. Drivers need to employ warning lights, flashers and flags to indicate they're operating a slow-moving piece of machinery.
• Familiarize yourself with roads and the best times to travel on them: Since farm equipment tends to be larger and harder to handle than everyday vehicles, it's important you verify it can safely travel on the roads you're planning to take. Pay particular attention to narrow bridges, low overhangs, loose gravel, soft shoulders and deep ruts. It's also best to avoid traveling during heavy traffic times.
• Be aware of your farm vehicle's size: Since farm equipment is usually larger than personal vehicles, keep the size in mind when you're driving around other motorists and on public roads. When you're driving a large piece of machinery, you'll want to avoid overhead obstacles, like low bridges and power lines. If you're towing equipment, ensure your vehicle can also safely carry the large load and that whatever you're hauling can fit under any overhead obstacles.
• Obey traffic laws: While obeying traffic laws might seem obvious, some operators don't realize it when operating a piece of machinery on the road. As you drive your farm equipment, ensure you're following all traffic laws like you would when driving your personal vehicle for optimal farm equipment highway safety.

Turn to Holt Ag Solutions for Your Farm Equipment Needs

Now that you've familiarized yourself with safety measures in using farm tools and equipment, you can feel prepared when investing in new farm equipment. At Holt Ag Solutions, we're proud to offer a wide inventory of safe and reliable farm equipment. Alongside our high-quality offerings, we also offer exceptional customer support. We can provide servicing and parts for all your machines, and our knowledgeable staff is always ready to provide any assistance you require. 

Browse our new agricultural equipment today, and contact us if you have any questions.

Types of Farm Equipment and Their Uses

Quick Navigation:

• Farming Vehicles
  • Tractors
  • Combines and Forage Harvesters
  • ATV, RTV, and UTV
• Tractor Attachments and Implements
  • Plows
  • Harrows
  • Fertilizer Spreaders
  • Seeders
  • Balers
  • Wagons or Trailers
  • Orchard Cab
  • Other Tractor Attachments

Modern farmers have different equipment options for various annual activities. From high-tech combine harvesters to simple tractors, the different farm equipment can meet the needs of small-scale homesteaders and industrial-size farming operations. However, it can be challenging to keep track of all the options. New farmers especially may wonder what the different types of farming machinery are for. For small- and mid-size farms, determining the types of farming machinery you may need to make your operations more efficient can be frustrating.

While all the equipment available may seem confusing, knowing about the basic farm equipment options can be an enormous help. If you're looking into purchasing new or used farm equipment, take a look at this guide. We'll review the different types of agricultural machines, their uses and some options for small, mid-size and large-scale farming operations.

Farming Vehicles

Of the different types of farm equipment and their uses, vehicles are the most important and represent the largest investment. While a truck is often a staple of farming life, several other farm-specific vehicles exist.

1. Tractors

The tractor is ubiquitous in the farming world and comes in various sizes to fit any farming operation. The primary purpose of a tractor is to pull farm equipment, but modern tractors can be outfitted with multiple attachments to suit just about any farming need. For this reason, tractors are common-sense purchases for small and large-scale farmers alike.

There are several types of tractors, including the following:

• Compact tractors: Compact tractors are small, high-powered tractors that can assist with all the basic functions needed on a farm or home. They are ideal for material handling and working in tight spaces where traditional tractors can't fit.
• Wheeled tractors: Wheeled tractors are general-purpose tractors that help you get the most out of your machinery. These utility tractors can meet various demands and be outfitted for tilling, material handling and equipment pulling. Wheeled tractors come with a range of horsepower, lifting capacity, control and cab-style options, allowing you to choose the best option for your applications. 
• Track tractors: Track tractors are farming vehicles mounted with tracks instead of tires, allowing them to plow fields with more power while providing a smoother ride for the operator.
• Specialty Crop tractors: Specialty crop tractors are designed, or can be specially adapted, with features to work optimally in orchards and vineyards. These slender tractors can more easily fit between lines of trees and vines while still providing the power needed for landscaping and maintenance.

Attachments allow tractors to become universal machines capable of getting anything done . For more details on the types of attachments available and what they do, see the section covering tractor attachments.

2. Combines and Forage Harvesters

In nothern California and Oregon, combines are commonly used for rice and grass seed, but you can also use combines and forage harvesters for other purposes on a farm. Even small-scale farmers can significantly benefit from using a combine or forage harvester. These massive pieces of machinery use a complex system of gears, blades, belts and wheels to turn cereal crops into grain. Combines accomplish this through three primary processes:

1. Reaping: Reaping is cutting the plant, accomplished by the header, reel and cutter bar on the combine. The header gathers the crops while the reel pushes them toward the cutter bar, which cuts the crops at their base.
2. Threshing: Threshing is the process of separating the edible parts of the crop from the nonedible parts. This is accomplished by the threshing drum, which beats the cut crops to separate the grains from their stalks. Threshers can also be individual attachments that you can use on a tractor. Some threshers can come with a bagger, while others discharge grains using conveyors.
3. Winnowing: Winnowing separates light chaff from the grain, usually accomplished while the grain is in the threshing drum. Chaff is generally separated from the grain through the use of sieves.

There is a vast array of combines and combine attachments to meet the needs of any farm. Many newer combines can even track yield data, showing which areas of the field did well and which did poorly so that these issues can be addressed the following year.

3. ATV, RTV, and UTV

All-terrain vehicles, also known as ATVs or four-wheelers, are becoming increasingly common on farms of all sizes, as are utility vehicles or UTVs. These smaller vehicles can move across rough terrain more effectively than most road vehicles and more quickly than a typical tractor. Additionally, several types of attachments will work for these vehicles, including small trailers, spreaders and mowers.

Tractor Attachments

Tractor attachments are attached to tractors or pulled behind them to add a new level of functionality. Their uses range widely from soil management to seeding. The different types of farm machinery attachments are detailed below.

1. Plows

A plow is a large tractor attachment that drags behind the tractor, using long blades to cut furrows in the soil. This process not only loosens and turns the soil, but it also helps kill off any surface vegetation that is not intended to be there. While the soil has to go through several subsequent steps to be ready for planting, plowing is an essential first step.

The concept of a plow may seem simple enough, but there are a variety of different plow types. Each plow type is suited to a specific soil type, soil condition and crop type. Here is a look at the three most common types of plows:

• Moldboard plows: Moldboard plows consist of wing-shaped blades, which are specifically designed to cut into and turn the soil. This is an ideal type of plow for shallow but thorough soil turning, which is often necessary for land that hasn't been used for crop production for several years.
• Disc plows: Disc plows consist of rows of discs that work to turn the soil and cut up weeds. These are less common than moldboard plows as they are less effective at turning the soil, but disc plows may be more useful for soil that is particularly sticky or rocky.
• Chisel plows: Chisel plows consist of exceptionally long shanks. These shanks turn the soil at a depth of a foot or more. This is often necessary for land that has been used for consistent crop production.

Plows can range widely in price from a few hundred to several thousand dollars depending on the type, size, brand and condition of the plow.

2. Harrows

Where plowing primes the soil, harrowing further agitates it in preparation for agricultural work. These attachments break down clumps of soil, make the soil surface level and redistribute crop and weed residue to make it easier for new plants to take root and grow. Harrows can also be used after distributing manure and fertilizer, as they can help break up clumps and distribute the fertilizer more evenly.

Some common types of harrows include:

• Spring harrows: Spring harrows are an older style that isn't commonly found today. These attachments use flexible iron teeth mounted in rows to loosen and agitate the soil.
• Roller harrows: Roller harrows look like large spiked tubes and, as the name suggests, are rolled across the soil to help crush the soil and prepare it for seed planting.
• Chain harrows: Chain harrows look like chain nets with spiked attachments. These are run over the surface of the ground to help aerate and spread soil and fertilizer.
• Disc harrows: Disc harrows are the more modern version of spring harrows, and consist of rows of large discs that break up soil and weeds more thoroughly after plowing.

Often, multiple types of harrows are used for different purposes and may be used multiple times during the soil preparation process. Harrows can be pulled behind tractors or ATVs, depending on their size and complexity. More advanced harrows require a tractor, but they often combine the benefits of multiple types of harrows all into one.

3. Fertilizer Spreaders

All-terrain vehicles, also known as ATVs or four-wheelers, are becoming increasingly common on farms of all sizes, as are rugged terrain vehicles (RTVs), and utility vehicles (UTVs). These smaller vehicles can move across rough terrain more effectively than most road vehicles and more quickly than a typical tractor. Additionally, several attachments will work for these vehicles, including small trailers, spreaders and mowers.

ATVs, RTVs, and UTVs make it easier to navigate large properties and provide an easier alternative to walking. You can also use these vehicles to haul equipment or your harvest, depending on the scope of your applications. 

Tractor Attachments and Implements

Tractor attachments are attached to tractors or pulled behind them to add a new level of functionality. Their uses range widely from soil management to seeding. The different types of farm machinery attachments are detailed below.

1. Plows

A plow is a large tractor attachment that drags behind the tractor, using long blades to cut furrows in the soil. This process loosens and turns the soil and helps kill off any surface vegetation not intended to be there. While the soil has to go through several subsequent steps to be ready for planting, plowing is an essential first step.

The concept of a plow may seem simple enough, but various plow types exist. Each plow type is suited to a specific soil type, soil condition and crop type. Here is a look at the three most common types of plows:

• Moldboard plows: Moldboard plows consist of wing-shaped blades designed to cut into and turn the soil. This is an ideal type of plow for shallow but thorough soil turning, which is often necessary for land that hasn't been used for crop production for several years.
• Disc plows: Disc plows consist of rows of discs that work to turn the soil and cut up weeds. These are less common than moldboard plows as they are less effective at turning the soil, but disc plows may be more useful for particularly sticky or rocky soil.
• Chisel plows: Chisel plows consist of exceptionally long shanks. These shanks turn the soil at a depth of a foot or more. This is often necessary for land used for consistent crop production.

Plows can range widely in price from a few hundred to several thousand dollars depending on the plow's type, size, brand and condition. You'll want to choose a plow based on your soil type, land conditions and type of crop production.

2. Harrows

Where plowing primes the soil, harrowing further agitates it in preparation for agricultural work. These attachments break down clumps of soil, make the soil surface level and redistribute crop and weed residue to make it easier for new plants to grow. Harrows can also be used after distributing manure and fertilizer, as they can help break up clumps and distribute the fertilizer more evenly.

Some common types of harrows include:

• Spring harrows: Spring harrows are an older style that isn't commonly found today. These attachments use flexible iron teeth mounted in rows to loosen and agitate the soil.
• Roller harrows: Roller harrows look like large spiked tubes and, as the name suggests, are rolled across the soil to help crush the soil and prepare it for seed planting.
• Chain harrows: Chain harrows look like chain nets with spiked attachments. These are run over the ground's surface to help aerate and spread soil and fertilizer.
• Disc harrows: Disc harrows are the more modern version of spring harrows and consist of rows of large discs that break up soil and weeds more thoroughly after plowing.

Multiple types of harrows are often used for different purposes and may be used numerous times during the soil preparation process. Depending on size and complexity, harrows can be pulled behind tractors or ATVs. More advanced harrows require a tractor, but they often combine the benefits of multiple types of harrows all into one. Some harrows can be attached to another implement to save time and expenses since you won't have to make as many passes through the field. You can also use them to break up manure and smooth riding surfaces.

3. Fertilizer Spreaders

Fertilizer Spreaders function as the name suggests — they spread fertilizer across a field. While there are fertilizer spreaders that can be run separately, most farming operations require a tractor-run fertilizer spreader for quick, evenly distributed fertilization.

There are multiple types of fertilizer spreaders, varying primarily based on the fertilizer used. These are some of the more common types of tractor-mounted fertilizer spreaders:

• Broadcast spreader: The most common fertilizer spreader is the broadcast spreader, which takes fertilizer and disperses it using gravity.
• Manure spreader: Manure spreaders take solid manure from livestock and spread it across a field. This is an easy way of effectively utilizing manure, though the solid manure will often need to be run over with a harrow to break it up and mix it in with the soil.
• Slurry spreader: Liquid manure spreaders are also known as slurry spreaders, which spray a slurry of liquid manure across a field.

Fertilizer spreaders vary widely in size and price, so consider your application closely before deciding which type to buy. It's also worthwhile to note that fertilizer spreader attachments are available for ATVs, UTVs and tractors.

4. Seeders

Seeders are designed to spread seeds across large plots of land quickly and efficiently. While small farms may use small mechanical seeders or even hand-seeding methods, tractor-pulled seeders are most commonly used in large-scale farms today. There are different machines used in agriculture seeding such as the following:

• Broadcast seeders: Broadcast seeders are also known as seeders or rotary spreaders, and they come in all sizes. These seeders work by placing seeds inside a hopper. Inside the hopper, a plate turns, taking seeds in for dispersing across the field. While this method is very effective for planting cover crops and grasses, it is not ideal for garden crops that need more organization, such as being laid out in rows.
• Air seeders: Air seeders are very large, using compressed air to shoot seeds into the ground. Though highly effective, air seeders can only be used on small, round seeds because of the way they operate, which limits their utility.
• Box drill seeders: Box drills are the preferred seeder for most farming operations because they are easy to use and work with a wide variety of seed types. These attachments drill into the soil and drop seeds at a specific depth.
• Planters: Planters are the most accurate seeders, though they tend to be the most expensive. Planters consist of several blades and wheels topped with seedboxes containing the planted seeds. The planter works by cutting into the ground, dropping individual seeds, then closing the ground behind them, all in quick succession.

Like other attachments, seeders vary in price based on the size, type and condition of the seeder. Some seeders can even seed, fertilize or spread salt all at once, depending on the needs of your applications.

5. Balers

Balers are essential for hay, straw and corn stalk collection. These tractor attachments collect these materials and wrap them into more easily manageable bales. There are three general kinds of hay balers:

• Round balers: Round balers roll hay into round shapes and then wrap it in twine or netting.
• Square balers: Square balers collect hay, straw or stalks into compactors, which help pack and compress the material into a square shape. Once the baler has enough material, it ties it with two lengths of twine or wire and then deposits it in a particular area. Square balers come in multiple sizes to work for a variety of applications. Square balers can tie bales in wire, twine or both, and you can add a bale mower attachment to make it easier to stack bales on your wagon.
• Large square balers: Large square balers function like regular square balers but handle significantly larger volumes for industrial farms. Smaller farms are better off using round or square balers unless you manage hundreds of acres.

Typically, square balers are less expensive than round balers, but the best type of baler for your farm and the wrapping method you use depends on your application. Balers can be used to collect food or bedding for livestock or collect crop yields to make them easier to transport.

6. Wagons or Trailers

Farm wagons and trailers are a necessity for any operation. Wagons and trailers are available in a wide range of sizes and materials, and they may be used for a range of purposes, including the following:

• Harvesting: Wagons and trailers may move hay bales and other harvested goods from one farm area to another.
• Material handling: Wagons are often used to move large quantities of materials, including fertilizers and feed, across large areas.
• Equipment transportation: Trailers are often equipped to move farming equipment, smaller vehicles and attachments.

Tractor wagons and trailers vary widely in size, and many operations may need multiple types to handle all the various duties involved in daily farm operations.

7. Orchard Cab

Orchard Cabs offer superior protection and comfort for your operators regardless of the environment. These cabs are designed to reduce distractions and fatigue to improve productivity and precision. Guardian and Sutter Butte both make exceptional orchard cabs that can be added to most existing tractors. They also make it easier to work on uneven terrain with their superior traction and stability. 

Some additional benefits include:

• Maximum visibility for efficient and safe work
• Heating and air conditioning for comfort
• Low profiles to protect trees and crops
• Superior finishes to withstand harsh environmental elements
• Durable steel construction

Orchard cabs are an excellent tractor addition that makes your work environment safer and more efficient.

8. Other Tractor Attachments

While the attachments listed above are the most common tractor attachments purchased, many other tractor attachments are commonly used in farming and related applications. Some of these different types of farming machinery attachments include:

• Sprayers: Sprayer attachments can spray pesticides, fertilizers and other substances across large areas. These are a must-have for any farming operation that handles large acreages.
• Mowers: Mowers are necessary for any large plot of land, but tractor owners can benefit from mower attachments. Various mower types meet a range of farm needs, from grass management to harvesting. The specific type of mower you require for your application will depend on your land, and you may need multiple attachments to attend to different areas of your property.
• Transplanters: Tractor-pulled transplanters make transplanting easy by taking large quantities of growing plants, digging holes and depositing them, all using machinery. Even small farms can benefit from transplanters by reducing manual labor and speeding up planting processes.
• Cultivators: Cultivators are used for soil cultivation, specifically in weed control. These are used for shallow tilling and are often used in smaller farming operations.
• Plastic mulch layers: For large-scale farms that use methods involving plasticulture, a plastic mulch layer tractor attachment is a necessity. This equipment takes a ream of plastic and lays it flat along the bed using a series of wheels.
• Rakes: If your farm operation involves making hay, raking attachments are essential for your tractor. Several rakes are available as pull-behind attachments, including wheel, parallel-bar, rotary and belt rakes.

You can also find backhoe tractor attachments if your application requires digging holes regularly. These attachments can dig up to 10 feet. However, renting or purchasing a standalone backhoe may be more effective for larger-scale applications.

Front-end loader attachments can also be very versatile for small to mid-size farms. While they are not an option for all tractors, these attachments can dig, move, lift heavy or bulky items, and perform land-grading tasks.

It is important to note that not all farms need all of these attachments — small-scale farms will need fewer types of agricultural equipment than large-scale farms, and a farm's need for specialized equipment will vary based on the local environment and farming methods used.

Choose Holt Ag Solutions

Holt Ag Solutions has the expertise and guidance to help you find the farm equipment you need. We are a leading supplier of new and used farming equipment sourced from various manufacturers. We have a diverse product line to ensure you can find what you need, including product lines like CLAAS LEXION Combines and JAGUAR Forage Harvester and AGCO's Fendt and Massey Ferguson products. Our Yuba City, Woodland and Willows locations also have Kubota tractors for sale. For those in need of a powerful utility vehicle, our Woodland, Willows, and Yuba City stores carries Kubota RTVs and our Salida store carries the full Polaris lineup. 

Holt Ag Solutions is dedicated to providing the service you need to properly maintain your farming equipment. We are a one-stop shop for all your farming equipment needs, serving Merced County to the Oregon-Washington border. Our team of experts can guide you through our product offers and what could work best for your application. We also have a top-notch service and parts department to help you properly maintain and repair your equipment. From sale to salvage, your needs are our top priority.

If you're ready to partner with a farming equipment provider that focuses on your satisfaction, contact Holt Ag Solutions today!