Which makes more sense long term?

[cuppa-T26]

I'm pricing tractors for hay work and I've narrowed it down to a Deere 6R 155 and a Massey 7S 165. I grew up running Deere, so I know what I'm getting but Massey keeps being pushed on me as cheaper upfront with lower fuel costs. My cousin runs a Massey and likes it but he doesn't put the same hours into hay as I do. Is there actually much difference in cost to run over the long haul or is it splitting hairs?

 

[DriedGrass88]

A bit of a tough call!! Both your options are well-regarded tractors in the 150-165 hp range, with features suitable for haymaking. The Deere 6R series is known for its robust build, advanced technology and a well-established dealer network with strong parts and service support. The Massey 7S series on the other hand, is often cited for its fuel efficiency, which can lead to lower operational costs over time.

The upfront price of the Massey may be lower, but the long-term cost to run can be influenced by multiple factors like fuel costs, maintenance schedules, parts availability, and resale value.. these can all vary depending on your specific location and usage. You might find that the total cost over a few years, once you factor in servicing and any little repairs, evens out pretty quick.

Maybe try to get more info and compare detailed quotes, including service contracts and warranties from both dealers.

 

[vmxguy]

It still boils down to your preference. If I were to choose between Deere or Massey. I would choose Deere because it has a strong resale value aside from having a wider dealer network. Massey might have an edge with fuel and upfront price but it could depend on how many dealers are available in your area. your best deciding factor will be which dealer you trust to keep you running during peak hay season.

 

[cuppa-T26]

I'll weigh parts access and resale against upfront cost this week and aim to decide before the next cutting cycle in October.

Has anyone tracked long term service intervals on the Massey 7S 165 compared to the Deere 6R 155?

 

[DriedGrass88]

Have you decided on this already?

I think the maintenance schedules are so close that they won't swing your decision by much, but the difference mostly comes down to engine oil.. The Massey 7S has a guaranteed 600-hour interval. The Deere 6R can stretch to 750 hours, but only if you use their specific premium fluids and filters.. If not, the Deere drops to 500 hours, making the Massey cheaper to maintain on that front. For hydraulics and transmission, the Deere 6R typically wins with a longer factory-recommended service of 750 hours for filters and 1,500 hours for the full oil change.

 

[cuppa-T26]

Didn’t realize the Deere drops to 500 hrs without the premium setup. Have you seen any real world cost comparisons between the two once you factor in fluids and labor?