Compact tractor selection logic: A step-by-step guide
Defining your work, comfort needs, and attachments all play a part in finding the right compact utility tractor
Compact tractor specifications are helpful when choosing the right fit, but you also need to define your use case so it solves all of your needs in the long run. This 6-step guide outlines considerations when choosing your John Deere compact utility tractor.
1. Define Your Primary Work
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Lawn care/mowing only: 1 or 2 Series.
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Light loader or landscape work: 2 or 3 Series.
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Heavy loader, snow, large acreage: 3 or 4 Series.
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Frequent commercial/fleeting backhoe: 4 Series.
2. Cab Comfort Needs
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Open station: 1, 2, or 3 Series.
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Heat only: Select 2 Series.
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Heat and A/C: 3 and 4 Series only.
3. Mid-Mount Mower
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Yes: See 1, 2, and selected 3 Series models.
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No: All series applicable.
4. Backhoe Attachments
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All series allow backhoe use.
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Frequent or heavy-duty: 3 or 4 Series preferred.
5. Loader Lift Requirements
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Up to 500lbs: 1 Series.
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800–1,000lbs: 2 Series.
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1,100–1,600lbs: 3 Series.
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1,800–2,200lbs: 4 Series.
6. Comfort & Hydraulic Complexity
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Basic comfort/simple hydraulics: 1 & 2 Series.
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Moderate extras/more capability: 3 Series.
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Best comfort/advanced hydraulics: 4 Series.