Machinery Doc

• Think Small
  Sometimes I just need a small tractor to get a job done. I still use an Allis Chalmers D-14, Farmall H, and Oliver 550! Why run a 125-hp tractor at today's fuel prices when a small tractor can take care of business? (10/4/2008)

  ---

• Machinery Doc: Sprayer Strategy
  A new or improved sprayer hasn't been in my capital purchase plans; I'm counting on my old pull type to get me through another season. However, the thought of possibly applying fungicides or insecticides and late-season applications in tall crops has me wondering if I should move a sprayer purchase up on my list. (7/8/2008)

  ---

• Machinery Doc: Sprayer Strategy
  A new or improved sprayer hasn't been in my capital purchase plans; I'm counting on my old pull type to get me through another season. However, the thought of possibly applying fungicides or insecticides and late-season applications in tall crops has me wondering if I should move a sprayer purchase up on my list. (3/14/2008)

  ---

• Machinery Doc: What a Difference A Year Makes
  I need another four-wheel-drive tractor, and I need it cheap. I had to give up on my old horse. It has been hard to let her go because she was a good one for the money. She cost me under $10 per hour for the time I used her. To me, that's cheap. I guess I need to move on because I can't live without a four-wheel drive. (1/11/2008)

  ---

• Machinery Doc: Sow a Good ROI
  Timing is everything. When we investigated the best time to buy a used combine in the September issue, it was obvious from the data that you should take action just before heading to the field to plant. It made me wonder, do the same seasonal influences hold true when buying a used planter? (12/11/2007)

  ---

• Machinery Doc: Weigh New Against Used
  Yes, it's possible to farm with junk, but it may not always pay. (11/2/2007)

  ---

• Machinery Doc: Buy a Combine Before You Plant
  When I bought my last combine—used of course—it was the middle of March. I bought then because it was the right time for me. I had no idea it is practically the best time to make that decision. (8/31/2007)

  ---

• Machinery Doc: Time to Make Hay
  Despite advancements in hay tools, mowing and getting a hay crop up off the ground is still as critical as ever to preserve forage quality. It seems there is no limit to how fast they can run, as long as the proverbial rock or the huge groundhog hole and mound doesn't interfere with the process and you're strapped into the tractor seat (you do, don't you?). (7/27/2007)

  ---

• Machinery Doc: Spread the Wealth
  It costs more today to get that sweet smell of money, but it certainly is worth more, too. (3/30/2007)

  ---

• Machinery Doc: It Just Depends
  Springtime energies are usually focused on the planting equipment in your shed. (3/17/2007)

  ---

• Machinery Doc: Trend Echoes Versatility
  Ask a farmer who owns a skid-steer loader if they can do without it and you will likely get a resounding “No!” There are not very many tools on the farm, especially on livestock farms, that have multiple uses and back-saving skills like the skid steer. (12/8/2006)

  ---