Feudin' farmers
by Becca Stephen, posted Sept. 4, 2007
There is a feud growing in the agriculture industry. A feud that has started arguments, fights and possibly has ruined friendships. Farmers across the nation are arguing over tractor manufacturers. John Deere fired the first shot with the slogan “nothing runs like a Deere,” and ever since, the brands have been at war.
Why is there so much controversy? Well, it isn’t because one implement dealer is superior to the other, but because they are so much alike. Among the John Deere 8430, the New Holland TG305 and the Challenger MT755B, there is not much difference in engine specifications and performance.
However, each manufacturer does offer something different, and highlights these features on their Web sites. The New Holland TG Series II tractors are the only ones on the market with SuperSteer. SuperSteer creates more tire clearance and gives an effective steer angle of 65 degrees. John Deere, on the other hand, offers more horsepower with the 8030 series than New Holland does. The Challenger MT755B is comparable in horsepower, but offers the Mobil-Trac instead of wheels and tires, which provides traction and floatation.
The cost of this equipment is still a major concern.
“As always, economics plays a big
part,” said Leon Schumacher, professor of agricultural engineering.
The cheapest is New Holland, with a base price of $155,000 for a TG305. MU freshman Steven McCully agrees with New Holland being the best value and said, “New Holland offers more horsepower for less money.”
The extra money for John Deere is worth it according to Bill Farzee, of Sydenstricker Implement Co.
“John Deere engineering is made with the consumer in mind, is very user friendly, and has an excellent resale value. All other manufactures are trying to play catch-up.”
Blue, green or yellow, the debate will continue on. In the end, all modern tractors are built with innovative engineering and technology; it just depends on what the consumer is looking for. Before you start firing harsh tractor slander, just remember that you may win the battle, but the war among the dealers will never be won.
