Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/117824
5 The Top Five Five things to consider when buying a tractor Cost of ownership, not purchase price, is the most important consideration. by Melissa Hansen I f you���re thinking about buying a new or used tractor this year, what should you be considering? Good Fruit Grower asked Gregg Marrs of Blueline Manufacturing and Equipment, with headquarters near Yakima, Washington, and Tom Riel of Burrows Tractor, Yakima, for their perspectives. 1 How much does it cost? The very last thing that should be considered���the purchase price���is usually where the grower wants to start. Dealers can compete on purchase price, but many other factors go into the cost of the equipment. ���The dynamics of equipment ownership are changing, and there���s more sophistication these days by growers in analyzing the true cost of ownership,��� Marrs said. More growers are considering the total package and benefits of the product rather than just looking at the purchase price. Other factors that make up the cost of ownership include the financing offered; life of warranty; expected life and cost of operational parts; fuel consumption; and resale value. Growers tend to focus solely on the initial price, but they really need to consider the total package���what the tractor will ultimately cost in the long run. ���With today���s price of diesel, fuel consumption is more important than it was in the past,��� Marrs said, adding that if one tractor model costs a little less but burns 20 percent more diesel, it doesn���t take too long COLD AIR DRAIN�� A Growing Legacy Since 1816 Frost Protection It���s not too late to order! Many of our most popular varieties are still available. Before... COST EFFECTIVE! Most systems have a 100% payback in the first year. Minimal site prep. Fuel efficient. No maintenance contracts. POWERFUL! State-of-the-art propeller sends cold air up approximately 300 ft. VERSATILE! Size & power options available to meet your needs. Targeted protection for frost pockets, swales, slopes, valleys, etc. Use alone or with wind machines, water, or heaters. FREE COMPUTERIZED FROST ANALYSIS & PRICE QUOTE! SHuR FARMS�� Frost Protection After... Check out our selection. Call 800-435-8733 to request our latest commercial catalog. 1890 N. 8th Street, Colton, CA 92324 877.842.9688 or 909.825.2035 info@shurfarms.com www.shurfarms.com 38 April 1, 2013 GOOD FRUIT GROWER Stark Bro���s Nurseries & Orchards Co. www.goodfruit.com