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Buying The Right Sized Tractor

Jul. 12 2021 Buying Guide By Tatum Motor Company

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Modern agriculture relies heavily on tractors to do the heavy lifting, but how can you be sure a tractor is right for your operation? One of the most important criteria is the tractor’s size. We here at Tatum Motor Company want to make sure your tractor is big enough to tackle the big jobs without being too large to navigate your property, so we’ve put together a brief guide to tractor sizing below. For more information, or to see the tractors we have for sale, contact our stores in Anderson, Missouri, and Tontitown, Arkansas, today!

How Are The Sizes Categorized?

Tractors are placed into size categories by engine horsepower. Different manufacturers may have slightly different ranges of horsepower for each category, but we’ve put together a generalized guide to keep things simple. Just keep in mind that the exact specifications depend on the make and model.

Below 25 HP: Sub-Compact Tractors

The smallest tractors around, sub-compact models are best for light farm work on small properties. The small size results in incredible maneuverability, allowing them to handle small spaces and navigate around obstacles with ease. They’re also the cheapest and easier to store. 

However, the small size and relatively low power limits the uses and attachments available. Luckily, they can still use front-end loaders or backhoes.

Average specs for sub-compact tractors are:

  • Weight: 500-1,200 pounds.
  • Rear wheel size less than 30”
  • Width: less than 48”

25-60 HP: Compact Tractors

Despite the relatively low size, these tractors can tackle most jobs on the farm. They have enough power for just about any project, but are also lighter and more maneuverable than their full-sized cousins. They also have more attachment options than sub-compact models. The largest compact tractors often have a turbocharger on the engine, boosting performance.

Average specs for compact tractors are:

  • Weight: 1,500-6,000 pounds, depending on whether it has an enclosed cab or not.
  • Real wheel size: between 30-36”
  • Width: 42-54”

60-140 HP: Utility Tractors

These are the larger tractors and are perfect for sprawling land and commercial projects. The larger size and higher HP allows for more implements and heavier jobs, typically offering multiple hydraulic hookups and PTOs at the front, back, and sides. Enclosed cabs tend to come with adjustable seating and climate control.

Average specs for utility tractors are:

  • Weight: 3,000 pounds or more.
  • Rear wheel size: 36-60”.
  • Width: 54-72”.

The Right Size

When choosing the tractor size that best suits your needs, consider the following:

  • Tasks and property. Smaller models are better for smaller workloads, but large properties and projects may need large tractors.
  • Attachments. The more attachments you need, the larger the tractor you’ll want.
  • Weight lifting capabilities. Heavier and bulkier loads will require higher PTO HP. 

Ready to get started? Contact us at Tatum Motor Company to learn more, or to see the tractors we have available. We proudly serve Fayetteville, Arkansas, and Joplin, Missouri—let us serve you today!