[AT] most uncomfortable to drive tractor---now most comfortable

[David Bruce]

My experience with different tractors of the era is limited so I'm not 
sure I can add much useful information.  I find my Massey 35 to be 
decent except for reaching the PTO lever.  The Allis D-14 has always 
been pretty easy to operate once you mounted the darn thing.  The Allis 
B I drove long years ago was more difficult to operate for me - balky 
clutch (might have needed some adjustment).  My JD2010 has never been 
easy to operate - part due to age and wear and part due the design of 
the operator station.

David
NW NC

On 3/24/2013 8:25 PM, jtchall at nc.rr.com wrote:
> David, you asked so here is my choice for operator comfort.
>
> IH built a utility series beginning about 1971. We have a '72 model 454 that
> cannot be beat for creature comfort. As with most utility tractors you are
> sitting straddle the transmission. All the controls on it are on the
> sides(except for the usual stuff such as the throttle and choke). All the
> gear shifts are on the left and do not require you to stretch to reach them.
> Great for loader, blade, or mowing in confined areas. The parking brake and
> remote hydraulics are tucked out of the way. The 3pt lift control is right
> beside you to make it easy to do grading and mowing.  You are pretty much
> boxed in by the fuel tank and fenders to help keep dust off of you. This
> tractor was slightly upgraded and renamed 464. They also made big brothers
> to it in 574 and 674 models--later renamed 84 series.
>
> A late model JD 4020 would be my second choice. I chose the late model
> because the hydraulics were mounted on the side. Also the PTO lever had been
> moved to the console where it was much easier to reach. The operators
> platform is so roomy you have enough room for a water jug, log chain, and
> still plenty of room for those of us with big feet.
>
> So, given the same time period, what tractor would you guys choose as the
> most comfortable to operate?
>
> John Hall
>