tractor choices

[rockriver]

need some info.
looking for comments from owners /operators of any of the following 3
jd 770
jd 2240
jd 990.

asking for recommendations/ condemnations! or general info.
if you have one, what has broken already.
what spare parts have you stocked.
capabilities?

the models i've seen are all 2wd.

[PerryJeff]

I have a Ford 4000, I also like the old WD45 Allis Chalmers also. The John Deeres are great with great resale value. The main problem with the newer tractor's is keeping them going in a survival situation. I like old gas because a carborator rebuild kit and new plugs every 5 years and they just keep chugging along. Annual oil changes and check water antifreeze level's every fall. I also add stabil in gas unless I know I will work it hard for a few tankfuls. I really like 3 point hitch, and power PTO and live hydrolics are great features to look for in the older tractors. One reason I like gas is most gas engines can be converted to propane and gas is easy to find. I have considered making bio diesel and if I do might consider a diesel tractor but they start hard in the winter have gel up issues.

[barfife]

need some info.
looking for comments from owners /operators of any of the following 3
jd 770
jd 2240
jd 990.

asking for recommendations/ condemnations! or general info.
if you have one, what has broken already.
what spare parts have you stocked.
capabilities?

the models i've seen are all 2wd.

I have a 89 jd 950 deisel that I bought as a repo in 1990. Other than routine maintenance and one battery and one fanbelt, I haven't had a single problem! That's not too bad for 21 years. I can't say enough on how reliable it is.

My only dislike is that the jd950 will only carry a 5 foot bushog. Takes a while to cut a large pasture.

But remember that my use has always been as a hobby farmer, I wasn't farming full time either. YMMV

[boltgun308]

Rock,
One suggestion I would make is go 4WD if you can. It really helps in plowing, bush hogging, etc.

[Klayton]

John Deere is sooooo expensive! Every time I look at them I drool, then I get in my pickup and drive away empty handed. LOL