I am currently researching compact tractors in the hope I can find something affordable, dependable and still in production AFTER I make my purchase. 
Are there any doper out there with any experience with Eclipse, Yanmar, Iseki, Manhindra or other tractors? I’m looking for a loader and backhoe unit to use with this tractor. Any input will greatly educate me and help with this decision. Thanks, CedricR.
Hi Cedric. The one bit of advice I have is to look at backhoes that use a hydraulic pump attached to the PTO instead of the tractor’s hydraulic system. This also simplifies the decoupling/coupling of the backhoe to your tractor. I have a RHINO, which is just a generic chinese diesel tractor(25 HP, 4WD- $5000 BTW). Another thing to look at is who in your area would service this beast. That is very important, let me tell you. I assume you’re in the USA, be sure to buy a tractor that has all the safety related addition added. My wife’s grandad sold and serviced tractors for years. He had quite a few used Japanese tractors that were downright dangerous because of a lack of PTO shields, exposed moving bits, no reinforced canope, no seat belts, etc.
Also, go with a diesel tractor, Gasoline is just too unreliable. A diesel will most always work.
The latest issue of “Practical Horseman” magazine had an article about buying tractors for farm work, including compact and garden tractors. You can find it your local Borders or anyplace that carries a lot of magazines.
Many thanks! Lots of good info in only two posts! The SDMB rocks!
Sorry it took me so long to thank youse guys… I lately seem to have become remiss in many areas after shooting a 10d galvanized ring-shanked deck nail through my finger.:eek:
It feels better now that it’s quit hurting.
CedricR.
I have a small 4x4 Alis Chalmers. No backhoe, box scrapper instead. I do recommend wheel weights, even with the box scrapper for ‘ballast’ the machine can get a bit tippy.
Side note, but a very experienced shop forman at a theater I worked at once put a nail through his hand while demonstrating the safety features of the pneumatic nail gun.
“You see, you can’t pull the trigger unles you… <BLAM>”
Amazingly, the nail went through without damaging any major ligaments, tendons, or veins!
Carry on. 