Loaders and Lifts

Barn Find Bonanza: Low-Hour John Deere 7810 Smashes Record

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 18:39:14 GMT

If you kick around the used farm equipment world long enough, every now and again you’ll come across the Holy Grail of auction finds: low-hour, premium condition (i.e. like new) pre-DEF machines.

Greg “Machinery Pete” Peterson likes to call them “barn finds.”

This week’s Pete’s Pick of the Week is a pristine barn find that brought home a big return for its 89-year-old owner:

Last Wednesday at an online farm equipment auction in Viroqua, Wisc., a 2002 John Deere 7810 2WD row crop tractor with only 915 engine hours (shown top of page) sold for $158,392, which absolutely destroyed the previous record high for a 2WD 7810 by over $45,000.

(Machinery Pete Facebook)

Another notable transaction from last week was a 1990 Case IH 7120 FWD tractor with over 4,000 engine hours (shown above) that sold for $61,000 at BigIron.com’s Rodney Patterson Farm Retirement online auction in Stratford, Iowa. It represents the second-highest all-time auction result for a 7120 with over 4,000 hours.

And this dealer-owned skid steer set a record for a used Case IH 435:

“You don’t see them very often, but they’re out there, more often than people think,” Pete says of the barn find John Deere 7810 and Case skid steer. “The guy probably retired decades ago and kept it to move some snow or something and it hardly had any hours on it. These pre-DEF, low-hour, barn finds always, always attract big money.”

(Machinery Pete Facebook)

And another notable auction result from the Rodney Patterson sale was a 1988 Case IH 1660 combine with 3,801 hours (shown above) that sold for $15,250.

Auction Market Insights

Pete shared a couple observations on the used farm equipment auction circuit during his appearance on AgriTalk this week:

His data shows that farm equipment auctions are up 14.5% through the end of September, year over year. And Pete anticipates an uptick in “whole farm fleet liquidations” in the months ahead and into 2026 due to the ongoing farm economy depression and many farmers aging out of active farming.

“[Right now] we’re just on the front end of this; the end of the year is going to be very busy as far as the number of auctions,” Pete says. “[There’s] all these different stressors and uncertainties out there, and combined with the fact the average age of the American farmer is older than me — and I’ll be 60 in a few weeks … yeah, there’s going to be a lot of auctions.”

Upcoming Auction to Watch

On Nov. 4, McGrew Equipment (Seven Valleys, Pa.) will host an auction featuring 150 skid steers (including an ASV PT100 with 141 hours) and several nice used tractors, like the Deutz-Fahr 5110G in the video above with only 33 hours. You can find more details at mcgrew-equipment.com.

Pete's Pick: 29-Year-Old Used Case IH Skid Steer, 2000 John Deere 8310 Draw Strong Bids

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 18:19:57 GMT

This week’s Machinery Pete “Pete’s Pick of The Week” comes to us from the world of construction equipment.

On Thursday, Sept. 11, at a retirement auction in Gaines, Mich., a 1996 Case IH 1845 C skid steer with 1,745 hours (see Facebook post below) sold for $20,700. Xyz Auction Service handled the bidding.

“Now, if I had a nickel for every time someone told me: ‘Hey, Pete, my favorite skid steer model is an 1845 C’ I’d have a lot of nickels, [and] this one was nice,” Pete says. “I thought, you know, getting up almost over $21K for an almost 30-year-old skid steer, [that’s] pretty good stuff.”

Last Thursday must have been a good day in the used equipment auction world, because another transaction that day also caught Pete’s attention.

At the Tom Mix farm retirement auction near Clay City, Ill., a well-maintained 2000 John Deere 8310 tractor with 4,222 hours (see Facebook post below) sold for $111,200. According to MachineryPete.com sales data, that is the fourth-highest price all time on a used 8310. Schmid Auction handled the bidding there.

Upcoming auctions
On Tuesday, Steffes Auction Group is hosting the Rost Farms Retirement Auction in Ivanhoe, Minn. Bidding for that sale (see Facebook post below) closes tomorrow at 8 p.m. CT.

And on Wednesday, in Dyersville, Iowa, the Alex Lyon and Son Auction Co. Rental Fleet Construction & Utility Equipment auction will feature a healthy selection of heavy duty machines pulled from rental fleets from around the country. Pete will be attending that sale in person, so be sure to say hello if you’re also checking out the auction in person.

“There are 13 skid steers on the docket, 17 excavators, 13 wheel loaders, and eight tractor loaders/backhoes,” Pete says. “I love covering all types of auctions and any chance I get to hang out with Jack Lyon and his son, Alex, I’ll take. They have sales all over the U.S. and the world, and it will be fun to have him in Iowa.”

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Classic Tractor Shines: 1989 John Deere 4455 Hits $80,750 at Iowa Auction

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 18:11:34 GMT

Machinery Pete’s Pick of the Week didn’t shatter any auction records, but it’s worth noting considering this week’s machine of honor is almost 40 years old.

At a Nate’s Tractor consignment auction on Thursday, Sept. 4, in Riceville, Iowa, a 1989 John Deere 4455 tractor with 3,066 original hours sold for $80,750. It’s the 17^th highest price Pete has recorded for what he says is a classic tractor with an average auction price of $44,751.

“Five years ago [the average auction price] was just under $37,850, and 25 years ago it was at $37,765, so we’ve jumped [up] here in the last five years,” Pete says. “There’s a lot of love for those 4455s out there.”

The all-time record for a used John Deere 4455 was set last year at an auction in Berlin, Wis. That was a 1992 model with 2,260 original hours, and it sold for $160,000. The previous record high for a 4455 was set in 2023 and it sold for $97,850.

You can take a look at all the historical sales data for used John Deere 4455 tractors over at Machinery Pete by clicking this link.

Fall auction season heats up this week

Machinery Pete says the number of used farm equipment auctions is starting to increase. He believes that is partly due to two factors: high used machine inventories on equipment dealer lots, and more farmers hitting retirement age and deciding to call it quits and sell off the fleet.

Pete says the next seven days represent “a market testing week” and there’s a handful of sales he wants interested buyers to be aware of:

Merit Auctions is hosting its large dealer auction online and in-person on its inventory yard in Ft. Madison, Iowa, on Tuesday at 10 a.m. CT. Pete says that sale has a lot of late-model equipment and a wide variety of equipment makes to choose from. It features 31 used tractors, five combines, five skid steers and five sprayers.
Richie Brothers is hosting an online only, timed auction on Tuesday featuring a collection of classic machinery from noted John Deere collector Norman Balzer up in Duke, Alberta, in Canada. There is a 1953 John Deere Model D Wide Front “Streeter” antique tractor that drew Pete’s eye in that sale.
Hoenig Auctions is hosting its online Sievers Equipment Inventory Reduction auction currently , and the bidding closes at 1 p.m. CT on Tuesday. Sievers is a Case-IH dealer, and Pete says there is a pair of 2012 Steiger 450 4WD tractors and a 2008 Case IH 2588 combine among many good quality machines in that sale.
TractorTuesday.com is auctioning off a 1978 John Deere 4840 Powershift tractor out of Ohio among the 394 active listings on its website. TractorTuesday offers zero sellers fees on listings, Pete says.
DPA Auctions has an online-only auction that starts Tuesday at 10 a.m. CT. There’s a nice 2023 John Deere low-hour 8RX 410 tractor in that sale that could be a winner for someone looking for a bargain on a late-model machine. There are also some classic Alice Chalmer and Farmall tractors available.

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Used Farm Equipment Swindle Alert: BBB Warns Virtual Vendor Vehicle Scams on the Rise

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 16:49:31 GMT

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is warning used equipment buyers nationwide about another sophisticated scam involving used farm equipment.

This particular grift, according to a press release from BBB, involved a fake online heavy equipment retailer impersonating a legitimate Missouri dealership, Cook Equipment & Trucking (Marble Hill, Mo.).

Buyers from across the U.S., some even from as far away as California and Arizona, reported losing a total of $223,000 after attempting to purchase heavy equipment and farm machinery through fraudulent websites and Facebook Marketplace ads.

Related: Essential Advice for Safely Buying Used Farm Machinery

Victims say they were “ghosted” after wiring money for equipment that never arrived. The BBB does not say whether the victims were able to dispute the fraudulent charges and claw back the proceeds from the scammers.

The reported fraudulent transactions include:

$45,000 for a skid steer loader from a buyer in Oak Hills, Calif.
$32,000 for an excavator from a buyer in Hancock, Mich.
$29,500 for a trailer from a buyer in Amanda, Ohio
$29,000 for a trailer from a buyer in Greenville, N.C.
$28,000 for a skid steer loader from a buyer in Eastman, Wis.
$31,000 for an excavator from a buyer in Des Moines, Iowa.
$29,000 for a skid steer from a buyer in Blue, Ariz.

BBB says the real Cook Equipment & Trucking, a small business operating since 2010, confirmed it has no website and is not affiliated with any online sales. The impersonators registered three fake websites, the most recent on July 14, and continue to run deceptive ads on social media.

“Those shopping for heavy equipment and farm machinery online should do their due diligence so they don’t fall victim to a virtual vehicle vendor scam,” says Michelle L. Corey, president and CEO, BBB St. Louis. “If an item is priced well below market value, that’s a red flag.”

To avoid getting swept up in an online virtual vehicle vendor scam the Better Business Bureau offers these tips:

Research the business at bbb.org or call 888-996-3887
Be skeptical of deals that seem too good to be true
Verify the website and contact the business directly
Read all terms and understand refund policies
Use a credit card for added protection
Report scams to BBB Scam Tracker, your state attorney general, the FTC, and the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center , and notify the social media platform where the fraud was discovered

To learn more about how to avoid online fraud in the used equipment auction world, check out BBB’s 2024 study on virtual vehicle vendor scams.

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Why Used Specialty Machinery Is Trending Right Now

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 16:56:35 GMT

Right now is the time to sell used hay equipment and versatile loader tractors at auction. That’s because farmer interest in both of those machine segments has likely hit its ceiling for the year, according to a recent episode of the “Moving Iron” podcast.

Another trend in the market is spiking farmer demand for economically priced machines.

“You’re looking at that $50,000 to $150,000 [range], that’s like the peak thing right now,” says Casey Seymour, host of the podcast. ”And you know, if you look at the cattle side of the business, there’s a lot of cash out there right now and a lot of things moving.”

With fall auction season right around the corner, Machinery Pete thinks dealers should monitor the volume of units that flow into the auction world, because he thinks the used market can go either way at this point.

“I wonder if there’s going to be some dealers that wish they would have sold at the end of the first quarter, or early second quarter,” Pete says. “We’ll see how the market holds up for the rest of the summer here.”

Seymour expects we’ll see a lot of auctions booked for November and December, and Pete agrees.

“Q4 has been an optimal time since 2003 or 2004 basically, with the Bush tax cuts that happened so long ago,” Pete says. “Last year was only the second year I saw a dip in the fourth quarter, and the only reason it dipped was sheer volume. That’s why I still think it pays to steer clear of when everybody else is selling.”

And all of you classic tractor fans out there will just love this fun little story that Machinery Pete shared on Facebook:

The rest of the episode

Rich Posson, business cycles analyst, Critical Point, joins the podcast to talk about implications of a recent Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation report and Federal Reserve meeting.

“The CPI came out at 2.7% this morning annualized, and that was shocking to Wall Street. First they bought and then sold, and now they’re back buying today under the idea that it’s lower than what we thought – therefore lower interest rates are coming,” he says. “But that 2.7% was actually unchanged (from last month). Years ago I learned from watching USDA data that when the government gives you an unchanged number, it basically means they don’t know what to do next.”

Aaron Fintel, used equipment specialist, 21^st Century Equipment, also joins this week to talk about how unique, specialty used farm equipment, like sugar beet harvesters, dry bean Pickett headers and hay steamers, are all “right on the cusp” of taking off on the High Plains.

“My biggest thing with keeping machinery moving is ‘Lot Rot’. On the sugar beet equipment, that’s the beauty – it’s nonexistent,” Fintel says. “In that specialty equipment (market) it’s pretty much ‘We’re upgrading to get bigger.’ or ‘We’re upgrading because we have to.’ That’s a world where a bigger percentage of your trade-ins are past their (useful) life.”

Head over to YouTube to watch the full episode. Hit the “Thumbs Up” button to “Like” the video and click on the “Subscribe” button to get a notification when a new episode drops.

Your Next Read: EPA Rolls Out Streamlined Diesel Engine Fluid Guidelines

Farmers, Truckers and Gear Heads Rejoice: EPA Rolls Out Streamlined Diesel Engine Fluid Guidelines

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 15:08:48 GMT

EPA is rolling out new guidance for manufacturers of farm equipment and other heavy-duty vehicles, removing regulatory red tape requiring diesel-powered farm equipment to reduce engine torque dramatically when a problem arises with the machine’s Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) system.

You can read EPA’s statement on the announcement here.

The new rule making goes into effect immediately for all new diesel engines on model year 2027 machines. It should also be noted the new guidance from EPA is voluntary for all non road equipment. Ultimately, each manufacturer will have the right to choose whether it implements the new inducement strategy or maintains the status quo with its own machines.

To fix the problem for farm machinery already in the field, EPA’s new guidance, developed in collaboration with farm equipment manufacturers, will work to ensure necessary software changes can be made on the existing fleet.

(EPA)

EPA administrator Lee Zeldin says now all non-road equipment, like farm tractors, combines and sprayers, must be configured so there is no impact on engine power for up to 36 hours when a DEF system malfunction occurs. Once 36 engine hours have passed, a 25% reduction in engine torque will go into effect until the machine is serviced. If the farm equipment is not fixed within 100 engine hours, then a 50% reduction in torque is activated until the machine can be serviced.

Additionally, farm equipment can be restarted with full engine power three times for up to 30 minutes after inducement, according to the EPA release.

“This is the first crack in the ice toward saying we don’t need these expensive systems on our farm equipment,” says Ben Reinsche, owner, Blue Diamond Farming Company in Jesup, Iowa. “We don’t need to immediately shut off an engine or be restricted for 36 hours if you have DEF unavailable or a malfunction.

“This is a positive step and maybe a formative step toward saying that having these emission standards on farm or off-road equipment is not critically necessary,” adds Reinsche. “There are so many other things farmers can do that are planet positive, like using conservation and sustainability practices, rather than having an after treatment system on our diesel engines.”

Small Business Administration (SBA) leader Kelly Loeffler says the new rule will save 1.8 million family farms across America a staggering $727 million per year while offering “vital financial and operational certainty.”

“This announcement today is such a big deal, especially on behalf of our farmers and ranchers,” says USDA secretary Brook Rollins. “At a time when our ag sector is really hurting, our farmers have had to endure a 30% cost increase in inputs, and a $30 billion Biden-era trade deficit, these everyday regulations being lifted makes such a difference.”

The new guidance greatly reduces a machine setting known as DEF derating and allows operators more time to secure DEF, refuel and make repairs. The new guidance also reportedly retains the environmental benefits of Tier 4 engine and DEF regulations for farm equipment and trucks.

“Today we are taking another important step forward by undoing these diesel fluid guidelines that have hurt our farmers and small rural businesses,” says U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa). “Not only will these new guidelines save family-run farms hundreds of millions of dollars per year, but it is also just common sense, folks. No farmer should have their tractor come to a halt in the middle of a field due to Green New Deal-style regulations from Washington.”

How Did We Get Here?

EPA ushered in DEF requirements for large farm equipment when it enacted broader Tier 4 emissions standards in 2004.

Tier 4 Interim rules, which required DEF for farm machines 750 horsepower and up, then went into effect in 2008.

In 2015, EPA’s final Tier 4 regulations were put in place, meaning all new non-road diesel engines — regardless of horsepower rating — had to comply with new emissions standards.

Curious where your farm equipment is made? Check out Farm Journal’s “Who Makes What Where” feature to learn more.

Why Do Many Farmers Hate Using Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)?

American farmers say they detest using DEF due to the challenges and additional fuel cost it tacks onto their operations.

Here are some reasons farmers aren’t big fans of DEF:

Higher Costs and More Maintenance: DEF adds on extra materials costs for machinery-based field work. Farmers must purchase large amounts of fluid, and the Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) framework that processes DEF is prone to malfunctions and expensive to repair. Often a simple-but-unexpected repair can pop up out of nowhere and end up costing farmers thousands of dollars and leave equipment inoperable.
Field Work Interruptions: If a tractor runs out of DEF or if the system breaks down, under the now-defunct previous guidelines engine power was greatly reduced, which is known by many farmers as “going into limp mode.” For farmers who rely on their equipment to operate consistently and reliably during planting and harvesting, any issue quickly becomes a major headache.
Storage Issues: DEF has a limited shelf life and is sensitive to temperature ups and downs. A quick Google search says DEF freezes at around 12°F and can degrade if stored in temperatures above 86°F. And who wants to look at a giant pallet of DEF cartons stacked in their machinery barn? Nobody, that’s who.
Contamination/Quality Control: DEF fluid must be pure and free of contaminants. Accidentally using the wrong type or getting foreign substances in the tank during refilling can wreak havoc throughout the system, leading to repairs and downtime.
Engine Performance Concerns: There are farmers who believe newer emissions systems, including those that use DEF, reduce the machine’s total power output and lower fuel efficiency.

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Why Used, Late-Model Equipment Is Surprisingly Strong, and Get Ready for a Packed Fall Auction Season

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 15:08:43 GMT

Casey Seymour and Machinery Pete say late-model, low-hour equipment values are stabilizing and even trending up as we get close to kicking off the used equipment auction busy season.

Pete says a few recent auction transactions display the value “firmness” bubbling up on like-new machines:

(Machinery Pete Facebook)

At a dealer auction in North Dakota this week, a 2023 New Holland T8.410 tractor (521 hours) went for $237,000. That’s a record-high auction price, according to MachineryPete.com historical data.

(Machinery Pete Facebook)

At the same North Dakota auction, a 2023 New Holland L334 skid steer with only 227 hours sold for $49,000. That’s another record-high auction price.

At a Steffes Auction Group sale in West Fargo, N.D., a 2023 John Deere 9RX 640 tractor sold for $477,278. The average auction price for that machine sits at $488,250. Taking into account low commodity prices, Pete says that’s not a bad price given the uncertainty in the farm economy.

“There’s different ways to see things,” Pete says. “That average auction price has remained flat, but if you look back two years the average auction price was about $597,000. So last year was the humongous drop down to $488,250, and then so far this year its kind of holding.”

Besides tracking used equipment values, Pete likes to look at land values and what he calls “the toy factor,” which are sales of vintage, unique show tractors that farmers love to collect.

Meanwhile, Seymour is anticipating a fall auction season with “big activity” as usual, but he thinks it will look a little different once we get into the thick of it.

“You’re going to see the same level of consignment dealership sale activity, but it’s going to be heavily mixed in with farm and retirement auctions,” he says.

Seymour and Peterson agree auction companies must continue to step their marketing and social media games up. There will be so many auctions taking place this fall that grabbing buyer attention will be absolutely critical for auctioneers.

“I guess that’s what keeps us on our toes, things don’t stay the same, they keep changing, even in our business,” Pete adds. “I mean, yeah, bring it on. That’s always been my — I try to keep that mindset despite being the gray-haired, grumpy old guy on the front porch.”

The Rest of the Episode

Aaron Fintel, used equipment specialist with 21^st Century Equipment and founder of High Plains Wholesale, tells Seymour many farmers put off upgrading the combine for the last two years. Now it seems like everyone in his area is looking for a used combine.

“We’re getting to that point where guys haven’t done anything, and now they kind of have to,” Fintel says. “Combines are hot; combines $450K-plus are an absolute iceberg waiting for a big white boat to hit them. But $450K and under? You’re getting some action.”

He also is seeing more farmers buying based on model year over engine hours, which is a shift in buying behavior.

Shawn Hackett, president and CEO, Hackett Financial, gives an update on the price of corn, which is down in the sub-$4 range currently. He says we are in the middle of the third rainiest growing season over the past 50 years.

“You would think that we would get record yields and a record crop, and that’s what everyone is going with, but I wish it were that simple,” Hackett says. “It’s not that simple.”

And John Deere’s Bergen Nelson, go-to market manager – harvesting equipment, shared what he is seeing in the world of harvesting machinery and technology.

Head over to YouTube to watch the full episode. Hit the “Thumbs Up” button to “Like” the video and click on the “Subscribe” button to get a notification when a new episode drops.

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Moving Iron: Used Farm Equipment Auction Activity Heats Up, Inventory Shifts Drive Machine Values Higher

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 17:37:14 GMT

An uptick in used farm equipment auction activity recently leveled the playing field for buyers, but now auction prices are swinging the other way and stabilizing. Moving forward, dealers should be able to command solid value for low-hour, well-conditioned equipment.

The market shift is most likely the result of mounting uncertainty in the farm economy, says Casey Seymour. Corn prices are down 16¢ off the summer high ($4.06) and agronomic problems like tight tassel wrap, derecho-level wind storms in the Upper Midwest this week , and pollination issues are clouding corn price projections for the time being.

Related: Insights From Seed Companies on Tackling Tassel Wrap Challenges

Not to mention, used machinery inventories are down from last year, as well.

“There’s definitely been a change in the feel of how things are looking,” Seymour says. “Go out and check how many $700,000 combines are on the market at this time last year compared to how many are out there today. It’s like 90% of them aren’t there anymore.”

With less late-model, used equipment inventory out on the auction market overall, Machinery Pete believes prices are stabilizing and dealers might be able to regain footing over the next few months. A Merit Auctions online dealer consignment sale last Wednesday is a prime example.

“They sold a ’22 model (John Deere) S780, 428 engine hours that went for $342,500. For comparison the average auction price on a ‘22 model S780 this year was just over $299,000, and the highest (price) I’d seen this year was $350,000,” Pete says. “And on the red side, they had a (Case IH) ’22 model 8250 – a few more hours on it, 681 engine – that did $282,500. [The] average auction price on an 8250 this year was $263,000 and change.”

“You start seeing people at the auction market look at the dealer side and say: ‘Well, maybe that’s not such a bad deal after all,’ and we’re seeing that now,” Seymour says.

High Plains Region and Commodities Updates

Aaron Fintel, used equipment specialist with 21^st Century Equipment and CEO of High Plains Wholesale, says we’re in the preharvest ramp-up period in the used equipment buying cycle. He says he is getting the most calls from buyers on used combines right now.

And Chip Nellinger, co-owner, Blue Reef Agri-Marketing, provides an update on the row crop commodities markets. He says heavy rains have increased yield projections and driven future prices lower, but he is also seeing a nice uptick in demand for corn exports and ethanol. Nellinger thinks the market is still sorting through tight tassel wrap and how that problem will impact prices heading into fall harvest.

Head over to YouTube to watch the full episode , and give it a “thumbs up” and hit the “subscribe” button to get every Moving Iron episode as soon as it drops.

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Why Used Late-Model Equipment, Pre-DEF Machines, and Harvest Equipment Is Trending Right Now

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 21:57:27 GMT

Moving Iron hosts Casey Seymour and Greg “Machinery Pete” Peterson think we’ll see a wave of farm retirement and estate auctions across the back half of 2025.

And the two used equipment auction experts project farmers will buy more late-model (1- or 2-year-old) tractors and combines at auction in the months ahead. MachineryPete.com auction data shows good condition, used, late-model machines are “definitely solidifying” in value, Pete says.

“Even loader tractors, three or four months ago we talked about the stagnation of the loader tractor market and how we were surprised by that,” Seymour adds. “Now we’re starting to see that market break loose and move forward. We’re seeing those 130 to 170 horsepower loader tractors really start to peak up.”

(BigIron Auctions)

Machinery Pete says another segment of farm equipment that “has ramped up 5x here in the last 18 months” is anything pre-DEF. A recent Big Iron Auctions online sale moved a 2008 John Deere 7730 tractor with 16,161 hours on it (shown above) for $150,250. It is the fourth-highest price ever recorded at auction for that specific machine.

Pete is also seeing values firm up on used grain carts, trailers and augers as fall harvest season draws closer.

“Considering where profit levels are for grain farmers, I would say it’s honestly a little bit higher than I would have guessed coming off Q4 2024,” Pete says.

Looking ahead, Seymour and Pete will be keeping a close eye on the upcoming Kerr Auctions Aug. 14 export sale; the guys are hoping to get a read on the used farm equipment export business. They are also teaming up for a live Q&A at Randy Dowdy and David Hula’s Yield Academy 2025 event in Rochester, Minn. , on Aug. 21.

Check out Machinery Pete’s video preview:

The rest of the episode

Aaron Fintel, used equipment specialist, 21^st Century Equipment, joined Seymour to chat about how auction values are changing on used combines and how that segment has changed from last year. Used combine inventories have experienced a seasonal uptick, while tractors, sprayers and planters have cooled off a bit.

“I can remember being a kid there would always be that harvest sale, there wasn’t the big end-of-year splash or the mega March pre-plant auctions like there are now,” Fintel says. “Even back then there was the ‘Let’s wax that old UFT grain cart and haul her down to the lot and let’s see if we can break even.’ That’s always been a thing.”

Shawn Hackett, Hackett Financial, provided an update on summer weather patterns and how the heat wave in the Midwest could affect commodity prices and yields heading into fall harvest.

“My expectation is (USDA) is going to raise (corn) yields to 183.5 bu. per acre here in August and by the time we get to October they are probably going to move those yields down to 180-ish or 178.5 bu. per acre,” Hackett says. “Still a very good crop, but the difference between 183.5 and 178.5 is the difference between projecting 2 billion bushel carryout and 1.4 billion bushel carryout. And the difference between those two measures is the difference between low $4 corn and upper $4 corn.”

Head over to YouTube to watch this week’s full Moving Iron Podcast episode. Be sure to hit the “Thumbs Up” button to give it a “Like” and hit the “Subscribe” button to get every new episode right to your mobile device as soon as it drops each week.

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Why Now is the Time To Move Used Construction Iron in the Farm Equipment Auction World

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 13:51:24 GMT

Casey Seymour and Greg “Machinery Pete” Peterson agree now is the time when many farmers spend time shopping for what they call auxiliary machinery — things like wheel loaders, skid steers, track loaders and other compact and heavy utility equipment types.

“Skid steers are one of the first things that pop up when in my mind when I start thinking about that right now,” says Seymour, adding there is almost always a healthy supply of the versatile material movers in the used market.

Machinery Pete recalls skid steer values falling a bit last year due to that high supply, but this year is a different story. Values are trending up on used because, once again, the cost of a brand-new skid steer is high.

(Machinery Pete Facebook)

“Pifer’s Auction had a sale (recently), and I think it was a 2024 Deere 335 P-Tier with 275 hours on it, give or take, and I thought that sold really well at $94,000 hard cash,” Pete says.

Another notable transaction came out of Illinois, Pete recalls. At a Joel Everett Tractors & Auction sale, a 2009 John Deere 325 with under 300 hours sold for $36,000, which was well over the previous auction high of $28,500.

“It was interesting. When they got to the skid steer they paused and said, ‘Hey, folks, this 2009 model is loaded with every single option,’ which is unusual for a 16-year-old model,” Pete adds. “But again, it was palpable how many people wanted that thing, and you know, $36,000 is a big check — but for hardly any hours on it and what you’re going to pay for a new one?”

Pete and Seymour also discuss the firming up they are seeing with used values on some of the large construction equipment seen around the farm, including excavators, wheel loaders and bulldozers.

How Kerr Auctions is Unlocking Export Markets

Alex Kerr of Kerr Auctions joined the guys next to discuss how his auction house is carving out space in the export market.

Kerr says the company has capitalized on growing equipment demand overseas by creating specialized sales that cater to export buyers. These sales often feature equipment that may not have strong domestic buyer interest due to age or condition.

Kerr has established partnerships to help overseas buyers handle logistics and shipping, and the company made the decision to eliminate buyer penalties for high bidders. Both decisions demonstrate a level of transparency and trust that helps put buyer minds at ease, he thinks.

“Specialized sales do well,” Kerr says. “We got to thinking that the export buyers, they hate some of the auction things they deal with. They don’t speak the language; you’ve got to talk to them on WhatsApp, or they have an online only presence.”

Kerr Auction’s next big export-focused Inaugural Farmer/Dealer Consignment Sale is set for Aug. 14. Check out all the details here.

The Rest of the Episode

Shawn Hackett, president and CEO of Hackett Financial, joined the show for an update on where commodity markets sit today and row crop futures prices. Glen Birnbaum, principal with Sikich, came on to talk machine depreciation rates and upcoming changes to tax law.

And Aaron Fintel, used equipment specialist with 21st Century Equipment, gave his view on moving used compact construction equipment out on the western plains.

Head over to YouTube to watch the full episode , and give it a “Thumbs Up” and hit the “Subscribe” button to get every Moving Iron episode as soon as it drops.

Pete's Pick: Used Equipment Trio Turns Heads

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 20:31:09 GMT

This week’s “Pete’s Pick of the Week” is a trio of used farm machines that sold at two separate auctions in the Dakotas.

And stay with us until the end as Machinery Pete has a line on two upcoming auctions that you need to check out if you’re in the market for some nice, late-model equipment.

Pete’s Pick of the Week for July 7, 2025

(Machinery Pete Facebook)

Last Wednesday, the team at Big Iron Auctions held a sale in Flandreau, S.D., where a “very sharp” 2020 Kubota M6141 tractor with a loader attachment (shown above) and just 846 hours on it sold for $85,000. According to Machinery Pete, that’s the third highest price all-time for that make/model of tractor on the used auction market.

“It’s kind of interesting,” Pete says. “The only two higher (prices) were both from back in ‘22, which as we have talked about often, that was clearly the highest watermark I’ve ever seen in the used farm equipment market.”

(Machinery Pete Facebook)

Another item that caught Pete’s eye in that same auction is a 2023 Schaffer 6680 T telescoping wheel loader (237 hours) that sold for $81,000.

And in a Steffes Group auction near Williston, N.D., that took place last Monday, a 2005 John Deere 8320 tractor (3,561 hours) sold for $122,000, which is the highest auction price on that make/model of tractor in 2025 thus far.

“I’ll be really interested to see (auction prices) from July and on,” Pete says. “I don’t think we’re going to see quite the heavy volume (we saw in 2024), but there are definitely some dealer auctions with more volume starting to appear.”

Bonus Video: Looking for a used combine for harvest this fall and want to find the price “sweet spot”? Check out this recent AgDay segment where Machinery Pete breaks down three harvester transactions:

Upcoming Auctions To Watch
On July 14, Machinery Pete will be making the drive out to Mandan, N.D., for the Burger Cattle Company/Freddie Burger Estate Auction. Brent Ulmer and Ulmer Auctions will be handling the bidding there. A quick video preview is available below if you’re interested:

“I’m sure many of you knew Fred. He passed away in January. He was only 67, but Fred had an amazing life,” Pete says. “Fred was well known throughout the country in the cattle sector and also in bull riding. I think he had been inducted into the Bull Riding Hall of Fame in Fort Worth, Texas, last year.”

You can check out the auction docket and get registered for online bidding on that sale here.

The Adam Marshall Land & Auction Company is also holding its statewide sale loaded with used farm equipment pulled out of farms and dealer lots across Nebraska, Colorado and Kansas. That is a no buyer premium/fees, no reserves auction, Pete adds.

You can check out the details on that online sale here.

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From Omaha to Georgia: Inside the Farm Machinery Reshoring Boom

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 19:04:17 GMT

After releasing our “Where Farm Equipment Is Made” 2025 update in February , we circled back with farm equipment manufacturers to get a read on how tariffs will affect where machines are made.

Many companies across a wide range of industries are considering or even moving forward with plans to reshore production from overseas back into the United States. We’ve learned this process involves long-term, strategic investments in new facilities and/or expanding factories already established here in the States.

Although each manufacturer shared differing visions for how, when and where it plans to build out additional manufacturing capabilities in the years ahead, a common theme did emerge: farm equipment builders are investing big dollars into reshoring, and many have been for quite some time now.

Let’s hear what the machinery companies are planning:

AGCO Corp.

(AGCO Corp.)

The Duluth, Ga.-based equipment manufacturer says its dedication to American farmers and its own strategic investment plans are “key drivers of our overall growth strategy,” according to an AGCO spokesperson.

The rest of the statement from AGCO, which builds the Fendt and Massey Ferguson equipment brands along with its own AGCO machines, regarding U.S. expansion plans can be found below:

Since 2020, we have invested just under $3 billion in the U.S. across new and expanded manufacturing facilities, product innovations and the largest ag tech deal in the history of the industry. Our commitment has extended across our various brands, locations and Research & Development (R&D) efforts, including the notable 2024 joint venture establishing Colorado-based PTx Trimble, the inauguration of Fendt Lodge – the North American headquarters of Fendt – in Minnesota, a new precision ag production facility in Illinois, modernization of systems and technologies in one of our Kansas plants, and U.S.-based R&D for new sprayer and planter technology.

These investments, AGCO says, will not only enhance production at its U.S. facilities for years to come, but also ensure AGCO remains at the forefront of ag innovation around the world.

Claas

(Matthew J. Grassi)

Claas is still a somewhat fresh face to the North American farm equipment market, but the company has deep roots in Europe. It was founded over 100 years ago in a small German farming town, and today the company has global headquarters in Harsewinkel, Germany.

But you may not be aware that Claas has also built a significant manufacturing operation in America’s heartland. The company opened its Lexion combine production campus, located just south of downtown Omaha, Neb., in 1997. This year marks 10,000 Lexion combines rolling off the main production line inside the 120,000 sq. ft. facility.

(Photos: John Deere, Matthew J. Grassi, AGCO, Kubota)

Claas has significant expansion plans in place for its Omaha campus, including doubling its overall production footprint for the main manufacturing building as well as adding a new training and apprenticeship building.

Here is the statement Matthias Ristow, president & managing director of business administration – Claas Omaha, shared regarding the company’s expansion plans:

Claas is investing significantly in its production hub in the United States, and not only recently. Over the last five years, we have added to our production facility to provide a better location for our rework and reconfiguration areas, as well as a dedicated work area for our quality control department for the pre-delivery inspections each machine must go through before being shipped. This is part of our comprehensive quality assurance program.

We also have built a new service academy where we train all the technicians from our U.S. dealer network (we have a similar location in Canada) so we can keep their skills up to date and make sure they have the proper certifications to work on our machines. Technology updates and changes are trained there as well.

Furthermore, our new service academy houses our apprenticeship program where we train the future assembly technicians in a three-year rigorous training program, managed by the German Chamber of Commerce. The program has several advantages. Technicians receive a regular paycheck (“earn while you learn”), receive an associate’s degree from a community college we partner with, receive a certificate from the German Chamber and have a job when they graduate from the program debt free.

Farm Journal recently had the opportunity to tour Claas’ Omaha operation, where we learned the manufacturer is also expanding its partnerships with domestic material and component manufacturers. For example, it recently began working with a finished parts supplier local to Nebraska to fabricate the grain spout for each Lexion combine.

CNH Industrial (Case IH and New Holland)

(CNH Industrial)

Although short on specifics, CNH Industrial (Racine, Wisc.) confirms it plans to “continue to expand our footprint through capital investments in our U.S. facilities, partnerships with local suppliers and programs that strengthen the communities where we live and work.”

CNH adds it currently employs more than 9,000 people across 17 U.S. states, with 14 manufacturing facilities and 22 R&D centers active throughout North America.

And approximately 70% of the components used in CNH Industrial’s U.S. plants are sourced from domestic suppliers while 95% its steel is purchased from U.S.-based mills. It says this approach to domestic material sourcing supports thousands of suppliers’ jobs and reinforces its investment in American-made quality.

John Deere

(John Deere)

The farm equipment manufacturer with global headquarters in Moline, Ill., was first to share its future investment plans with Farm Journal. Back in May, the company announced a 10-year, $20 billion outlay plan for its U.S. production base. This year alone, Deere says it will pour $100 million into its U.S. operations.

John Deere says this initiative includes:

A 120,000 sq. ft. expansion of the company’s remanufacturing facility in Missouri.
Construction of a new excavator factory in Kernersville, N.C.
Expansion of its Greeneville, Tenn., turf equipment factory.
New assembly lines for 9RX high-horsepower tractor production in Waterloo, Iowa.

John Deere plans to invest a total of $22.5 billion into its U.S. manufacturing network once the 10-year project is complete.

Kubota North America

(Kubota North America)

Kubota Tractor Corporation (KTC) established its North America headquarters in Grapevine, TX., in 2017. The Japanese equipment manufacturer shared the following statement regarding U.S. expansion plans.

North America is critical for Kubota, and the U.S. is our largest market. We firmly believe in local production for local consumption and have made more than $1 billion in U.S. infrastructure investments in the last couple years to meet the growing needs of our dealers and customers. For example, we recently announced the opening of a new loader facility in Gainesville, Ga., (invested $190 million), a new Western Distribution Center in California (invested $72 million), and an R&D facility (invested $100 million) that’s also in Georgia. We have other network investment announcements in the works, and we plan to continue to invest over the next five to 10 years as we respond to market demands. Today, we are more than 7,000 American workers strong who market and sell, and fabricate, weld and assemble equipment with domestic and global parts.

Want to learn more about where your favorite farm machines are made? Check out “From the Factory to Your Fields: Where Farm Equipment Is Made”.

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Machinery Pete: Versatile Skid Steers, Used Tractors Are Hotter Than Fish Grease

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 21:07:15 GMT

What goes well alongside sweltering summer Midwest heat and humidity?

Well, if you answered used farm equipment auctions, you’re on the same wavelength as our used equipment-obsessed friend, Machinery Pete. He hit the road last week, capturing all of that sweet, sweet iron moving at auction.

All jokes aside, the extreme heat and humidity that hit the Upper Midwest this weekend can indeed be a bad omen for farm auction results, Pete says. Good thing there’s plenty of online auctions this summer so you can avoid the sweaty, sunburned crowds while still getting down on all the bidding action.

Here’s a quick sample of what Pete says stood out from the past seven days of red-hot farm equipment auction sales:

(Machinery Pete Facebook)

In an online Pifer Group auction that pulled used farm equipment from Minnesota and the Dakotas, a 2024 John Deere 335 P-Tier skid steer (pictured above) with 275 hours sold for $94,000. Pete says that’s a pretty good deal considering the only comparable model listed for sale at MachineryPete.com right now is a 2025 335 P-Tier. That bad boy starts at $159,000, though.

(Machinery Pete Facebook)

And a 2009 John Deere 325I skid steer with only 124 hours on it sold for $36,000 at the Harry and Lola Blackburn farm estate sale in Iowa.

On the tractor front, on Tuesday of last week, the folks at DPA Auctions moved a pair of late-model John Deere tractors that originated from farms in South Dakota.

(DPA Auctions)

In that sale, two 2024 John Deere 8R 280 MFWD tractors, one with just under 1,200 hours (pictured above) and another with 1,451 hours on it, sold for $315,000 and $296,000, respectively.

“Those were both above the average auction price this year, which is just over $282,600,” Pete says. “And interestingly, that’s up from last year’s average which was just over $258,000.”

And finally, Pete’s “Pick of the Week” is a pair of used tractors:

(Machinery Pete Facebook)

At the Blackburn estate auction in Iowa, a Gold Key Certified 2009 John Deere 7230 Premium 2WD tractor (above) with only 1,076 hours sold for $94,500.

And at the Al Bruhn farm auction sale Saturday in Mapleton, Iowa, a vintage 1968 International Harvester 756 German diesel tractor set a new all-time record at $29,000. The previous high for that year/model was $21,000.

Auction to Watch This Week

Sullivan Auctioneers and Big Iron Auctions is having a “No Reserve Dealer Inventory Reduction” online auction for Sinclair Tractor featuring a huge collection of machines from the dealer’s Iowa stores. Check out the video preview from auctioneer Dan Sullivan above.

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Load ’Em Up: Used John Deere Tractors Set Auction Records in New York

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 12:51:49 GMT

An auction in Whitesville, New York, featured a pair of record-setting John Deere utility tractors, making the pair of farm workhorses Pete’s “Pick of the Week.”

The Scott Acomb & Family Dispersal Auction, where the two loader tractors were sold, was facilitated by auctioneer Adam Fraley with Fraley Auction Company.

(Machinery Pete Facebook)

The first machine to smash a record was this John Deere 6430 utility tractor (shown above) with only 278 operating hours. It sold for $128,000, beating the previous record for that make/model by $5,000.

(MachineryPete.com)

Pete shared the screenshot above showing the Top 5 high prices at auction on John Deere 6430 tractors.

(Machinery Pete Facebook)

And another John Deere utility tractor with a loader, a 2003 7420 model, sold for $122,500, beating the previous record-high by $18,000.

“Even in a belt-tightening ag economy, the nicest used stuff with a little age on it is still red hot,” Pete says.

Here is a list from Pete showing the Top 5 auction results all-time on a John Deere 7420:

(MachineryPete.com)

You can listen to Pete’s full appearance from Monday’s AgriTalk episode via the media player below.

Upcoming Auctions To Watch

Pete is gearing up for a big week on the used equipment auction circuit.

On Saturday, there are two notable auctions he says will have some nice machinery scores for farmers. Machinery Pete will be making the trek out to the Harry and Lola Blackburn Farm Sale in Lime Springs, Iowa, to check out an “amazing list of low-hour machines.” You can check that auction out here.

Also on Saturday, the Al Bruhn Farm Auction in Mapleton, Iowa, features six John Deere Hillco Sidehill combines. You can check that auction out here, and Pete shared this video preview for the sale on Facebook:

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Machinery Pete Runs Down Buying Activity on Everything From Applicators to Skid Steers

Tue, 27 May 2025 17:36:01 GMT

They may not dominate farmers’ attention quite like tractors and combines do, yet skid steers and wheel loaders are versatile, practical pieces of heavy equipment for farming and livestock operations.

Pete’s Pick of the Week highlighted a pair of recent transactions for both machines on the auction circuit:

(Machinery Pete Facebook)

A 2023 Bobcat T770 skid steer on tracks with only 32 operating hours (shown above) sold for $69,750 at an auction in Michigan. That’s the ninth-highest auction price ever on a used Bobcat T770, according to MachineryPete.com data. The record sale price, which is over $98,000, was set in December 2022. Pete says equipment dealer inventories were at historic lows coming off the COVID-19 slowdown, and that likely influenced the price.

(Machinery Pete Facebook)

A 2023 Kubota R640 Wheel Loader with 209 operating hours sold for $74,750 at the same auction in Michigan.

Interested in used wheel loaders? Here’s a page from MachineryPete.com showing auction data for 406 wheel loader transactions from Jan.1 to today.

“Right now, with the uncertainty in the market – the stock market is dropping and my 401(k) lost 800 points – it just gives you a little back-off. That’s the harsh reality and brutal honesty of these auction prices,” Pete says. “$98,000 was the market at the end of 2022, and right now it’s $69,750. The good news is I think you might get a good buy.”

(Machinery Pete Facebook)

Last Wednesday at a Big Iron online auction, a pre-def, pre-Tier IV 2010 John Deere 8320R tractor with 3,280 hours (pictured above) went for $166,000. Average auction price for that make/model over the last six months is just over $138,000.

(Machinery Pete Facebook)

And a 1970 John Deere 4020 diesel tractor (pictured above) sold for $22,250, besting the average auction price for this year by over $11,000.

(Machinery Pete Facebook)

A pair of John Deere S690 combines that sold in that same Big Iron auction were also worth noting, Pete says. A 2017 model with 1,227 hours went for $131,250 (pictured above) and a 2014 model with 1,395 hours went $125,000.

And lastly, Pete noted two sprayer transactions he found interesting.

(Machinery Pete Facebook)

At a DPA Auctions sale, a 2022 John Deere 410R sprayer with 347 hours out of Illinois sold for $362,000.

(Machinery Pete Facebook)

And a 2022 Case IH Patriot 4440 with 1,058 hours from Minnesota sold for $210,500, making it the highest price paid in the U.S. for a Patriot 4440 this year.

Auctions To Watch
For interested buyers looking for the right deal, Pete advises them to be on the lookout for multi-state online auctions.

“This is an interesting trend I’m seeing in the market. They actually label their sale the Tri-State sale, so they pull in equipment from Michigan, Indiana and Ohio. There’s another auction company in Nebraska, and they pull equipment out of Colorado, Nebraska and Kansas. They tend to do these about once a month,” he says.

On Saturday, June 21, he’s looking forward to a farm auction for Harry and Lola Blackburn in Lime Springs, Iowa, hosted by Joel’s Tractor and Auction.

Machinery Pete will be boots-on-the-ground with a camera crew, so you might get to meet him in person if you show up for the sale. There’s a trio of good condition, used John Deere machines that he says make it worth a look.

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Transform Your Farm: Discover New Seed Drills, ATVs and Utility Tractors

Thu, 22 May 2025 16:39:13 GMT

Great Plains Adds Narrow Transport Box Drills for Minimum-Till and No-Till Operations

New Great Plains BD7510 No-Till Drill

(Great Plains Manufacturing)

Great Plains is expanding its line of narrow-transport box drills with new sizes of the BD7410 min-till drill and the BD7510, a new box drill for no-till producers.

Great Plains says farmers can easily move field-to-field and navigate narrow gates and roadways with the new narrow-transport setup. The BD7410 and BD7510 fold to under 10' and both models feature hydraulic tongue latches and fold/unfold with a single hydraulic lever from the cab.

Now available in 13', 15' and 20' models, the BD7410 is a min-till drill offered in 5", 6", or 7.5" row spacings, and it has an opener sub-frame with multiple pin positions to fine-tune the down pressure that the hydraulic cylinders apply.

New for no-till producers, the BD7510 comes in 15' and 20' models that the company says provide a rugged option with a leading coulter for tough soil conditions. The BD7510 models are offered in 7.5" row spacing and the 15' has an option for 6" row spacing. Both working widths are available with a native grass box option.

Visit GreatPlainsAg.com for more information.

Honda Offers Updated FourTrax ATVs for 2026 Model Year

Honda 2026 FourTrax Rancher

(Honda Motorsports)

Honda has confirmed the return of its FourTrax Rancher, FourTrax Foreman 4x4 and FourTrax Foreman Rubicon ATVs for the 2026 model year. All three ATVs are designed in Ohio and manufactured in North Carolina, using domestically and globally sourced parts.

Honda’s FourTrax lineup offers a wide range of trim levels and configurations to suit various riding applications. From the hardworking FourTrax Rancher to the heavy-duty capabilities of the FourTrax Foreman and the comfort and handling of the FourTrax Foreman Rubicon, each model is engineered for durability and capability.

The 2026 updated models will be available for order starting in May; Honda says some options within its Foreman Rubicon line won’t be available until June.

Check with your local Honda ATV dealer for more information.

New Bobcat Compact Tractors Feature Enclosed Cabs and Front Loader

(Bobcat)

Bobcat is adding to its compact tractor lineup with the introduction of two new sub-100 hp utility models.

Bobcat says the CT4545 (45 hp) and CT4558 (58 hp) are dependable machines for feeding livestock, clearing snow, handling materials, grading, backfilling and a multitude of other farm tasks.

With similar features and functionality to the Bobcat 4000 platform compact tractor models, the 4500 platform adds on a fully enclosed, heated and air-conditioned cab. Beyond offering protection from the elements, the cab helps to reduce noise levels and minimize vibrations.

Bobcat is also introducing a new front-end loader size with the FL9-2, which is compatible with the two new models. The 4500 platform tractors can also be paired with dozens of attachments and implements, including pallet forks, utility grapple, auger, angle blade, snowblower, tiller, bale spear and more.

The CT4545 and CT4558 models will be available at Bobcat dealerships in Q2 2025. For more information, contact your nearest Bobcat dealer.

Kioti Adds Two Models to HX Utility Tractor Series

(Kioti Tractor)

Kioti Tractor is releasing the HX1302 and HX1402, two new models within its HX Series utility tractor line.

The company says the new models represent Kioti’s most powerful tractors yet, delivering up to 35 more horsepower than previous models, and are built to excel in heavy-duty farming, bailing, tilling, cultivating, excavating and grading applications.

The HX1302 and HX1402 feature a state-of-the-art power shift transmission and 8,492-lb. maximum lift capacity and a category II three-point hitch. A standard rear PTO, with 540/540E/1,000 rpm speeds, is also included on both models.

Powered by a four-cylinder, water-cooled, diesel engine, which delivers up to 140 hp and 120 PTO horsepower, the HX1302 and HX1402 are built to handle tough jobs around the farm.

For more information, get in touch with your local Kioti dealer.

Your Next Read: U.S. Tractor and Combine Sales Still Struggling, But Better Days Could Be Just Ahead

Pete's Pick of the Week: 45-Year-Old Massey Ferguson Smashes Record High, Vintage Farmall and More

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 19:32:37 GMT

On the heels of a busy week of buying and selling activity on the used farm equipment auction circuit, Machinery Pete recalls a handful of vintage tractors that caught his attention.

For his weekly Pete’s Pick of the Week honor, he picked a tractor (video above) that has been chugging along crop rows for the last 45 years: A 1980 Massey Ferguson 2705 tractor with original paint sold for $19,500 at a consignment auction in Mount Pleasant, Penn. The previous record for that year/model was $18,000.

“You’re buying horsepower, and some people will say that’s nuts to spend almost $20K on a 45-year-old tractor, but then more than half the people will go ‘No, no, no, that’s not nuts. That’s a solid working tractor’,” Machinery Pete says. “If I want to get into anything newer, it’s going to cost a lot more. We keep talking about it - there is so much money going into these solid older machines, and they are going up in value.”

(Machinery Pete Facebook)

Another record-setting sale took place last Wednesday over in Plano, Ill., at a farm estate auction helmed by Merit Auctions. A John Deere 6115M utility tractor with a loader sold for $107,500. That model’s previous record high was $101,000.

(Machinery Pete Facebook)

And on Saturday in Dunlap, Tenn., a Farmall M tractor (model year not disclosed) sold for $7,100 at a farm auction. Machinery Pete says it’s the second highest price he can find across over 2,500 Farmall M series transactions dating back decades.

(Machinery Pete Facebook)

Then there is this funky looking John Deere tractor that spent its days moving snow for a city maintenance department in North Dakota. At an April 15 consignment sale in Ashton, N.D., the 1972 John Deere 4620 with a cab, dual 3400 loader and over 7,000 operating hours sold for $37,975. The machine had been listed for sale for years by the City of Tollstoy for around $10,000. The city finally sent it to auction and received over triple the original price they were looking to get for it.

You can listen to Machinery Pete’s full segment from Monday’s AgriTalk episode here:

Upcoming Auction Action & New Podcast Episode
This week, Machinery Pete himself will be on the scene in Merrill, Wis., to cover the four-day 2025 Spring Auction by Integrity Sales & Auction. The sale kicks off Wednesday and will feature more than 4,000 lots of used ag and construction heavy machinery. You can take a look at the online listings here .

Machinery Pete also has a new podcast episode that dropped over the weekend. You can check that out here:

Your Next Read: Why Farmers are Flocking to Auctions for Low-Hour Equipment Deals

Machinery and Tech News: Updates From Ag Leader, John Deere, Kinze, Rantizo, Unverferth, Yamaha and More

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 15:01:00 GMT

Ag Leader announces RightPath implement guidance
Trailed implements are known for drifting even when using autosteer, resulting in imprecise placement of inputs and inconsistent guess rows. Ag Leader is introducing RightPath, a passive implement steering solution, to alleviate these problems.

In many cases, an implement can drift off its guidance line up to 10 inches or more, even on flat ground. Ag Leader says RightPath keeps implements centered on the guidance line via passive implement guidance, which the company says enables farmers to:

Place the implement – and therefore rows and inputs – in the right place.
Plant seed accurately relative to a previous operation.
Achieve consistent guess rows in all conditions.
Re-use the same guidance line in the next field.
Reduce stress and fatigue.

Both the tractor and implement require Ag Leader’s GPS 7500 to utilize RightPath, and the tractor needs to be equipped with TerraStar-C, TerraStar-X, or RTK. It is designed to operate through Ag Leader’s InCommand Go displays. RightPath is compatible with both SteerCommand Z2 and SteadySteer.

RightPath will be available in late fall 2025 through a single purchase unlock, and there will be no recurring subscription fee.

Learn more at AgLeader.com.

Greeneye Precision Spraying system available for cotton
Greeneye Technology announces the expansion of its retrofit, selective smart spraying system to include cotton for 2025.

(Greeneye)

Greeneye’s AI-enabled system addresses the numerous weed management challenges facing cotton farmers today by precisely targeting herbicide application to weeds using real-time, sub-millimeter precision. The company says its technology significantly reduces herbicide usage, lowers input costs, and enhances weed control efficacy while providing flexibility for both pre- and post-emergence applications.

The retrofit solution is engineered to integrate with any commercial sprayer, regardless of brand, model, or size, according to the company.

Greeneye has already secured multiple sales with cotton farmers in the U.S., who will begin using the system at the start of the 2025 growing season.

Learn more at Greeneye.ag.

John Deere adds electric seed meters to Precision Upgrades lineup
John Deere is releasing two new planter retrofit kits to supplement its Ultimate Planter Upgrade program. Now, farmers can either replace individual seed metering row units as they wish, or they can opt-in to the full planter upgrade program.

(Nate Luke/John Deere)

For farmers that just want to upgrade to new seed meters, the MaxEmerge 5e and ExactEmerge electric drive seed Meter Upgrade kits are available for model year 2015 and newer planters. Deere says the seed meters optimize planting productivity and help farmers plant faster with pinpoint population and spacing accuracy.

Deere’s Ultimate Planter Upgrade program is a complete factory row replacement for 2005 and newer planters that include the following features:

ExactEmerge or MaxEmerge 5e electric meters.
IRHD and active pneumatic downforce.
Standard or spoked gauge wheels.
SeedStar 5 monitoring.
One year factory warranty.

Additional options for the Ultimate Planter Upgrade include ExactRate or ExactShot liquid fertilizer systems, ExactChem granular insecticide, easy-adjust pneumatic row cleaners or pneumatic closing wheels.

Learn more at deere.com.

Kinze announces model year 2026 releases
Kinze Manufacturing is introducing the following innovations as part of its model year updates for next year:

A new dual product fertilizer system on all configurations of its popular 5900 front fold planter. The new system features row-by-row section control, and fertilizer products can be applied at two different rates and are fully controlled by the Blue Vantage display.
Two new configurations and an additional seed meter for the recently released 5670 pivot-fold, split-row planter. Now a 12-row 30" and a 16-row 30" will be available for next season. And all configurations can be ordered with the True Speed electric high speed seed meter to plant at 3 to 12 mph. The 5670 fertilizer system will also be available with rear fertilizer drop tubes.
Several new alerts, counters, and reports have been added to enhance its Blue Vantage displays, along with the ability to replant over a skipped area. In addition, both the John Deere Operations Center and Ag Leader AgFiniti have been linked to Blue Vantage so data can be easily uploaded through a Wi-Fi connection.
Harvest Commander Grain Cart models will offer the Scale-Tec POINT scale indicator for scale monitoring and data collection. The scale indicator is Bluetooth enabled and ISOBUS compatible, and provides scale readout information to mobile devices up to 1,000 ft. away and on an externally mounted readout on the cart.
New Offset-Pivot Hydraulic Doors will be available in 40' to 120' widths and heights up to 30'. The door options have been built for production facilities, machine sheds, and aircraft hangars.

For additional information, farmers can visit Kinze.com or contact their local Kinze dealer.

Manitou Group announces new MLT 850 telehandler
Manitou is launching an all-new agricultural telehandler to the North American market: the MLT 850.

The new model features heavy-duty parts and components similar to its existing MLT 961 while retaining a relatively smaller footprint more similar to its MLT 841.

(Manitou Group, Inc.)

The machine features a max lift height of 24 feet, 11 inches and a maximum lifting capacity of 11,021 pounds (4,410 pounds capacity at maximum lift height). The ability to easily change between dozens of attachments offers versatility for tasks including loading bulk into a trailer, loading silage and manure, loading a feed mixer wagon, stacking straw and hay bales, handling and filling bags, and loading compost and wood chips.

MLT 850 also features a double U-shaped boom built for ground engaging work and to have comparable strength and performance to front-end loaders.

Learn more about the Manitou MLT 850 here.

RELATED: Read up on more machinery news that you might’ve missed: https://www.agweb.com/news/machinery/machinery-news-new-john-deere-retrofit-kit-grain-bag-baler-telehandler-line-alfalf

Morton Building’s 3D Studio tool helps farmers design the new barn of their dreams
Morton Buildings is introducing its new 3D Studio online tool that enables users to design their own Morton building.

When working in the 3D Studio, farmers can zoom in and move around the building to fully engage in the design. They can save their building color choices and finished product with the “save” button, digitally share with others and print out the selections.

(Morton Buildings)

A unique feature of the 3D Studio allows farmers to determine the ideal dimensions for their buildings based on the specific size of the machinery, vehicles and equipment they plan to store.

To try out the new tool, visit mortonbuildings.com/3d-studio.

Rantizo, Climate FieldView now connected via new API
Iowa-based spray drone service provider Rantizo says its proprietary AcreConnect software is now connected with Climate FieldView, Bayer’s digital farming platform.

Rantizo’s AcreConnect software can share application maps with Climate FieldView accounts.

(Rantizo)

The owner of the largest spray drone network in the U.S. says this connection allows retail agronomists and growers that use these digital platforms to have a more comprehensive view of operations by including spray drone application records and maps.

Now spray drone operators can easily share those application maps with agronomists and growers directly via their FieldView account. This ensures that spray records are included with other application information and field data, giving farmers and retailers a comprehensive view of their field operations.

To learn more about AcreConnect, visit Rantizo.com/AcreConnect.

Unverferth unveils new Parker Seed tender model
The Parker Seed Chariot seed tender lineup is adding a new model, the 3620R, that offers a longer 21’ conveyor for filling central-fill planters and drills. The split compartment tank can haul multiple seed varieties and has a combined capacity of 360 seed units.

(Unverferth)

All 3620R Parker Seed Chariot tenders feature an 8” tubular style conveyor powered by an industrial-grade gasoline engine with electric start. All controls are housed in a weather-tight compartment located on the driver’s side.

For transport the 3620R features a tri-axle undercarriage with 7,000 lb. capacity torsion axles and new 235/85 x 16 highway-rated tires with electric braking on all axles.

You can learn more about Parker 3620R Seed Chariot tender by visiting the nearest Parker Seed Chariot dealer, or parkerequip.com.

Yamaha Motor Co. launches Yamaha Agriculture, a precision ag and autonomy spinoff
Yamaha Motor Co., the Japanese company that launched the first unmanned aerial application vehicles for agriculture over 40 years ago, is launching Yamaha Agriculture, a new company that will focus on delivering autonomous equipment and AI-powered digital solutions for the specialty crop market.

The new venture is being formed through strategic acquisitions of Robotics Plus and The Yield, according to a press release from the company.

Robotics Plus’ robot Prospr spraying in a New Zealand vineyard.

(Robotics Plus)

Robotics Plus provides an autonomous hybrid vehicle capable of multiple activities including spraying and weed control, while The Yield brings AI-powered yield modeling and data analytics.

Yamaha Agriculture plans to provide robotics solutions for spraying, weeding and other field operations for growers of wine grapes, apples and other specialty crops in key markets like North America and Australia.

You can learn more at yamaha-agriculture.com.

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Small But Capable: Is 2025 The Year of The Utility Tractor?

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 12:30:00 GMT

Several farm machinery companies are releasing new low-to-medium horsepower utility tractors for model year 2025.

Which begs the question: If 2024 was The Year of The Combine , is 2025 already shaping up to be The Year of The Utility Tractor? It doesn’t have the same ring to it though, now does it?

Many of these machines feature redesigned operator cabs and revamped engine transmissions. It seems tractor manufacturers are increasingly integrating technologies, such as in-cab monitors, LED lighting packages, and machine guidance and telematics, which are usually reserved for higher horsepower models.

Ease-of-use, versatility and operator comfort seem to be the common threads that tie all of these introductions together beyond engine output.

The following new machinery introductions were announced last week during the National Farm Machinery Show in Louisville, Ky., and World Ag Expo in Tulare, Calif.

AGCO announces the launch of its Massey Ferguson 2025 compact tractor lineup, which includes a new Premium Series model and MF Economy and Sub-Compact Series models.

(Alex Visciotti )

AGCO’s Massey Ferguson brand has announced its 2025 compact utility tractor line, which is comprised of three distinct series.

Premium Series (24.8 hp to 60.3 hp) tractors designed for daily use and ideal for a variety of applications from snow removal and landscaping to fieldwork and property maintenance.
Compact-Economy Series (24 hp to 57.3 hp) tractors balance affordability with capability and offer a variety of configurations.
Sub-Compact Series (22.5 hp to 24.5 hp) tractors that Massey Ferguson says are perfect for hobby farmers and first-time operators.

Each utility series features updated ergonomics and operator comfort features, a wide range of compatible attachments and implements, and user-friendly options for enhanced ease-of-use.

RELATED: AGCO Launches Massey Ferguson 2025 Compact Tractor Series, New Double Square Baler

Case IH’s new Farmall C Series tractor

(Case IH)

Case IH has announced its new medium utility Farmall C tractor Series.

The four-model lineup offers a 12-speed PowerShuttle and a 24-speed Hi-Lo transmission alongside a suite of factory-installed technology updates.

The manufacturer says the Farmall C Series has a larger, reinforced front axle, boosted hydraulic flow, heavier gross vehicle weight and increased rear lift capacity. All models in the series feature fully integrated base telematics to geo-locate the tractor and monitor the machine for service.

Additional new features include an auto PTO function to automatically engage and disengage the PTO, and an advanced loader joystick in the cab to simultaneously lift and shuttle control for fast material handling.

Dealers are taking orders now, and Case IH says Farmall C will ship in the fall.

Kubota Tractor Corporation’s new MX4900 utility tractor.

(Greg Latza/Kubota)

Kubota Tractor Corporation has unveiled its all-new MX4900 utility tractor.

The company says it is designed to be a workhorse at a new price point. From transporting hay bales to grading a driveway, or performing general property maintenance, the sub-100 hp machine provides a capable solution that ranchers and farmers have been waiting for.

There are two types of transmissions available on the MX4900 and both models are equipped with a Kubota engine and Common-Rail System (CRS) with electronically controlled fuel injection.

The MX4900 also features both ROPS and Cab options with ergonomically placed controls. Some of the comfort features include a spacious operator station, optional suspension air ride seat with optional armrests on the cab model, and all-new optional dealer-installed LED lighting kits.

The MX4900 will be available at authorized Kubota dealers in spring 2025.

New Holland’s PowerStar Series utility tractor.

(New Holland)

New Holland’s brand new PowerStar Series offers four distinct utility tractor models ranging from 86 to 117 hp.

The company says the next-gen series offers new styling, greater operator comfort inside a refined VisionView cab with independent suspension, and a wide array of productivity-enhancing features. Underneath each hood is a FPT Industrial 3.6-liter four-cylinder engine, and the lineup complies with Stage V emissions standards.

The PowerStar series also offers all-new, factory-installed LU Series front loaders standard on all models. These loaders offer more lifting capacity, greater lifting height, faster cycle times, improved visibility, easier coupling and refined control.

The new PowerStar Series tractors will arrive in dealer inventory in Q4 2025.

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Machinery News: John Deere Retrofit Kit, Grain Bag Baler, Telehandler Line, Alfalfa Tedder

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 18:07:14 GMT

John Deere Offers New Precision Ag Retrofit Kit

John Deere’s new Precision Essentials kit includes the following hardware (pictured left to right): a G5 or G5Plus universal display, StarFire 7500 receiver, and JDLink M or R modem.

(Photo courtesy of John Deere)

John Deere is the releasing a new precision ag hardware kit – Precision Essentials – that it says will help make advanced precision agriculture technologies accessible to farmers, growers and ranchers.

John Deere says the kit enables machine automation and provides customers the opportunity to manage their entire farm with the John Deere Operations Center. Farmers can install the retrofit kit on legacy John Deere equipment and in mixed fleets.

The Precision Essentials kit requires an annual license with four different licensing options available. Deere says the kits can be customized to fit your operation based on crop type or production system – this includes dairy and livestock operations.

For more information, visit your local John Deere dealer or JohnDeere.com

Loftness Releases 12-Foot Grain Bag Baler

Loftness now offers a 12-Foot grain bag baler that mounts to the 3-point hitch of a tractor and rolls up in 9 to 12 feet.

(Photo courtesy of Loftness. )

Loftness now offers a 12-foot grain bag baler that mounts to the three-point hitch of a tractor and rolls up 9 to 12-foot diameter bags up to 500 feet long.

The company says all functions of the 12-foot grain bag baler are hydraulically controlled, control valve levers are conveniently mounted on the unit for superior visibility of the process and an integral bag tensioner helps to keep bales tight.

The 12-foot grain bag baler is based on a 4-inch-by-4-inch steel tube frame for maximum durability. It requires two hydraulic outlets to operate.

For more information, visit Loftness.com or your local Loftness dealer.

Norden Manufacturing’s new alfalfa tedder hits the market

Norden Manufacturing’s all-new AlfaTed tedder implement.

(Photo courtesy of Norden Manufacturing.)

Norden Manufacturing says its AlfaTed implement can help farmers prepare harvested alfalfa for baling while maintaining quality. The new reel-type tedders offer higher working speeds and a reliable and gentle solution compared to typical rotary tedders, the company says.

The reel on the AlfaTed features six bars of teeth and an improved cam system. Its reel design moves the window of opportunity for tedding to later in the alfalfa dry-down cycle and promotes further dry-down with minimal leaf loss.

Visit the Norden Manufacturing booth at the National Farm Machinery Show next week for more information.

T-L Irrigation Celebrates 70 years in Irrigation Systems Business

T-L Irrigation Co. (Hastings, Neb.,) is celebrating its 70th year of supplying irrigation solutions to farmers. The company was founded in 1955 by LeRoy Thom and is still family owned and operated, with David Thom serving as company president. T-L distributes irrigation machinery and products throughout the U.S. and in 87 countries worldwide.

Starting as a supplier of irrigation equipment, the company took its first step into manufacturing with the purchase of an aluminum pipe tube mill to make pipe for gravity irrigation. In 1969 came the first T-L Irrigation pivot — a novel hydrostatic drive-powered pivot in a marketplace flooded by water, hydraulic and electric-drive systems. The technology continues to be the cornerstone of the extensive T-L product lineup.

According to the company, every piece of T-L Irrigation equipment is tested on Thom family farms and must rise to their standards before the company offers it to farmers.

Click here to read more on the company’s history.

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5 Tech Companies Embracing Electrification, Autonomy

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 20:25:36 GMT

Tractors and robots powered by electrification and autonomously tasked using Artificial Intelligence were without a doubt the main points of emphasis among the handful of farm tech companies exhibiting at this year’s Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Here’s a brief rundown of what some ag tech and ag tech adjacent companies showed off:

John Deere – After wowing attendees last year with a remotely operated tractor exhibit where users stopped and started a large 8RX tractor doing tillage work thousands of miles away at Deere’s Austin, Texas, test farm, the manufacturer extended its autonomous capabilities across a wider breadth of its machine portfolio to include lower horsepower tractors and autonomous spraying technologies for tree, fruit, and nut growers , as well as an autonomous lawn mower for commercial landscapers and a massive articulated yellow-and-black dump truck for construction firms. Deere also debuted a 130 hp, fully electric battery powered, autonomous-ready concept tractor at the show.

RELATED: John Deere Introducing Next Generation Perception Autonomy Kits

Behold, the hustle and bustle of John Deere’s CES booth:
Kubota – the Japanese firm captured a CES Innovation Award for its KATR robot (video clip below), a four-wheeled all terrain, multi-functional field robot that maintains a level deck across rugged terrain and operates autonomously and in “follow me” mode to help specialty crop producers get more done in a day. However the stars of the show at the Kubota booth, in this author’s humble opinion, were Flash, a plant health imagery solution that uses AI for analysis, and the Smart Plant Imager that bolts onto the top of the KATR robot and enables acquisition of hyperspectral plant health data in real-time. Both products spit back management recommendations to help high value crop growers know where to focus management and labor efforts to make the biggest impacts on yield and quality. Also new this year: the Agri Concept 2.0 autonomous tractor that debuted last year at CES has been outfitted with an operator cab, giving farmers the choice between direct oversight or autonomous tasking.

Spoiler Alert: Those peach baskets don’t fall off or spill. Good job, KATR:
Kioti – the South Korean midsize equipment innovator displayed a multi-functional, modular field robot it is calling the AI Agri Robot RT 100 (pictured top of page). Electrically driven and featuring three driving modes – manual, follow me, and fully autonomous, the helper robot can be outfitted with an orchard spray kit to apply pesticides into the plant canopy as it travels between permanent crop rows. Kioti also showed off a fully electric RX 7340 smart tractor (video clip below) that features integrated soil sensing technology that measures soil moisture, organic matter, and other soil health metrics and sends that data up through the AWS cloud for processing and then back to the grower’s preferred FMIS solution, helping provide the farmer with greater insight into soil conditions in real-time.

That’s an eye-catching small utility tractor, I must say. And it’s “Smart” - beauty and brains:
Caterpillar – The heavy equipment manufacturer kicked off its 100-year anniversary at CES. Like its ag industry brethren, Cat debuted solutions around electrification and autonomy, starting with the center piece of its booth: a gigantic, electrified 55,000-pound Cat 972 Wheel Loader (pictured top of page). Cat also featured its Cat Command autonomous live remote operation capability (video clip below) by having CES attendees sit in a pilot seat and take the controls of an excavator located on a job site in Tijuana Hills, Arizona.

Space-age technology coming soon to a rock quarry near you. Freddy Flintstone and Barney Rubble approved:
The future is here: you can finally put your lazy, do-nothing barn roof to work generating free power from the sun for your electrified machines! Very cool.
(Matthew J. Grassi )

Jackery – With all of the focus on electrification from the ag side at CES, it makes sense to look at what solutions are out there for portable, sustainable power generation and storage. Jackery made a big splash with its lightweight, portable solar generators and collapsible solar panels, and an even bigger hit its solar roof shingle technology (pictured inset). One can imagine a future where growers with electric machines decide to replace their barn roof with solar roof shingles to capture all of that energy from the sun and use it to power power electrified equipment around the farm. Something tells me that Jackery is going to be relevant in the ag world should the shift to electrification continue on at the farm gate.

Stay tuned to AgWeb.com for more ongoing coverage of what we saw and heard at CES 2025 in the days and weeks ahead!

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Red Winners: 2 Massey Ferguson Machines Top Auction Records

Mon, 30 Dec 2024 20:37:25 GMT

Machinery Pete joined AgriTalk radio host Davis Michaelson on Monday, fresh off the Christmas holiday weekend, to talk about some notable used equipment auction results as 2024 comes to a close.

He shared the following as his “Pete’s Pick” during his weekly appearance on the show:

A 2012 MF 8660 tractor (shown above bottom left) with only 877 hours sold for a record $139,250. That price beat the previous record high, set back in February of 2014, by $11K.
A 2019 MF 4710 manual FWD tractor w/loader (shown above top left) with only 636 hours sold for $65,000. The previous record price for that model, according to Machinery Pete, was over $54,000.
A 2012 MF 8650 Dyna VT manual FWD tractor (shown above bottom right) with only 239 hours sold for $130,500. Machinery Pete says that is the second highest auction price ever recorded for a used 8650.

Upcoming used equipment auctions
Machinery Pete says to check out AuctionTime.com if you’re in the market for used farm equipment this week. The site has a handful of online auctions set to go live soon.

Your Next Read: Machinery Pete Explains Why 2025 Could Be a Great Year to Buy Ag Equipment

Have a used tractor you’re looking to sell? List it with MachineryPete.com , the most trusted name in farm equipment, reaching thousands of prospective buyers every day. Follow Machinery Pete on Facebook and on YouTube for the latest updates straight from the man himself.

John Deere Layoffs: What We Know So Far

Fri, 07 Jun 2024 13:50:34 GMT

Farm Journal has learned via public records from the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act (WARN) that nearly 60 salaried Intelligent Solutions Group (ISG) employees based out of the Urbandale, Iowa, office will be laid off in the first week of August. John Deere reported the initial number of ISG layoffs at 58 employees.

John Deere ISG leads the design and manufacture of custom, integrated electronic solutions for Original Equipment Manufacturers. The division was created in 1987 and was based in Fargo, North Dakota, before moving to Urbandale.

Additionally, John Deere has confirmed with News 8 WQAD in Moline that over 120 production workers in Moline will be placed on indefinite layoff effective June 28.

One of John Deere’s chief rivals in farm equipment manufacturing, CNH Industrial, is itself the subject of rumors the company intends to lay off 25% of it’s workforce based in Racine County, Wisconsin. Its flagship farm equipment brand, Case IH, was founded in 1842 in Racine.

Unconfirmed sources on the Reddit community r/johndeere are reporting a global all ISG employee meeting is scheduled for Friday, June 7 at 9:30 central. The purpose of that call has not been confirmed.

Iowa’s WARN Act requires employers with 100 or more employees to give 60 calendar day written notice when there is a plant closing or mass layoff. The filing shows a notification date of June 6, 2024, meaning the affected ISG employees due to be notified on June 6 will no longer have a position effective August 7, 2024.

This is on top of recent reporting by AgDay TV Host Clinton Griffiths that the equipment manufacturer has offered 103 early retirement buyouts and eliminated 650 total jobs across its Iowa operations as of June 1. John Deere has also announced its intention to move its production of mid-frame skid steer loaders and compact loaders from its plant in Dubuque, Iowa, to a proposed new production facility in Mexico.

AgDay TV also notes that a total of 773 layoffs have been reported to the state of Iowa in 2024. John Deere employs a global workforce of 70,000 people.

What’s Going On At Deere?

Looking back over the last six months, John Deere has undeniably had a busy first half of 2024.

In February, the equipment manufacturer launched its 2025 model class of tractors, combines and sprayers at the annual Commodity Classic convention in Houston.

The company also focused on marketing its precision ag technology retrofit strategy, Precision Upgrades, to capture additional revenue by helping farmers retrofit precision ag technologies to older machines already on the farm.

John Deere also struck a deal with Elon Musk’s SpaceX Starlink global low Earth orbit satellite connectivity network to provide corrections and data telematics services to customers in South America in 2024 and North America in 2025. In addition, the company signed 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy to an endorsement deal, although the financial details of that arrangement have yet to surface. Farm Journal has reached out to John Deere reps for a status update on the search for its newly-created Chief Tractor Officer post, to which the company has yet to respond.

John Deere has projected a 20% to 25% downturn in farm equipment sales as farmers grapple with low commodity prices, high operating expenses and high interest rates for financing large capital investments. Sky rocketing labor costs and inflation are also having downward effects on net farm income.

Sources familiar with the inner workings at Deere have shared the belief that the equipment giant may have over projected recurring revenues from software as a service (SAAS) offerings “big time.”

Farm Journal’s Margy Eckelkamp reported on John Deere’s shift to a recurring revenue model back in 2022 , stating “with more embedded technologies delivering value to customers, John Deere is starting to shifts its business model with the goal of having 10% of revenues by 2030 be recurring revenue — or subscription based. Company officials say this aligns its business with the value customers realize in use of the equipment. They give autonomy as an example. ”

At the same time, John Deere executive leadership team compensation levels have seemingly opened the manufacturer up to additional criticism from online commentors on the r/johndeere Reddit thread.

According to salary information aggregation website Salary.com , data reported to the SEC from fiscal year 2023 shows the companies’ current Chairman, CEO and President received a compensation package that eclipsed $26 million total, with a base pay of $1.5 million combined with $5.9 million in bonuses and non-equity cash payouts. That position also received a total of $18 million-plus in non-cash stock and equity distributions.

John Deere’s current President of Lifecycle Solutions, Supply Management and Customer Success, received just over $10 million in total compensation.

Finally, John Deere’s President of its Worldwide Agriculture & Turf Division, Production & Precision Ag, Sales and Marketing Regions of the Americas and Australia, pocketed just shy of $7 million in total compensation.

Reddit commentators at r/johndeere also note that the companies’ recent return to office mandates have not sat well with some current employees. They claim the company has not presented a compelling case to force workers back to its corporate offices.

Editor’s Note: Reddit is an online social networking community and the linked thread above was created with the stated intent of collecting thoughts from current and former John Deere employees. Reddit does not verify whether a poster actually is or ever has been employed by John Deere.

Machinery Pete: Livestock Demand Pushes Loader Tractors Up, Late Model Glut Marches On

Tue, 14 May 2024 19:12:37 GMT

Machinery Pete – Greg Peterson – selected a pair of used John Deere tractors this week as his Pete’s Pick of the Week during his Monday morning appearance with host Chip Flory on AgriTalk Radio.

Peterson highlighted a 1988 two-wheel drive John Deere 4450 tractor with a loader (4,028 original hours) that was auctioned off in Calumet, Oklahoma, at a consignment sale helmed by Elite Auction Company. It went for an even $70,000, which Machinery Pete says is the highest price he’s witnessed this year on a used 4450 tractor. That same model’s average auction price over the last 24 years comes in at just over $36,000 – so this sale achieved nearly double the average sale price.

His second Pick of the Week also came from The Badger State: a 1989 John Deere 4455 two-wheel drive loader tractor with 1,238 original hours that went for $71,000. That sale occured last Friday in Oxford, Wisconsin, at a farm auction led by Gavin Brothers Auctioneers.

Machinery Pete says these types of tractors are being targeted by livestock producers.

“The livestock sector has been really strong, obviously,” Peterson says. “So good used equipment in that realm has held up stronger than the big grain side.”

Late Model Used Softening

While the older four- and two-wheel drive tractor market continues charting up and to the right, Peterson is noticing late model, large horsepower tractor prices “recalibrating pretty aggressively softer.”

He points to an equipment dealer with shops in Illinois and Missouri that recently held a sale with a staggering 523 used late model, high horsepower John Deere tractors on the lot.

A 2023 Model 8RX 410 with only 431 operating hours, still under factory warranty, brought $426,000 at auction, which Pete notes is the second lowest price on a used 8RX 410. Nine months ago at an auction in Michigan a 2022 8RX 410 went for $520,642.

Another example was a 2023 8R 310 tractor with 468 operating hours that sold for $289,000 – the lowest price Pete has recorded on that model this year. A similar model in January sold for $350K at auction.

“It’s focused on the late models – the one, two, three-year-old ones – that’s where we’re seeing the biggest (price) drops,” Peterson says. “Farmers are under pressure, and there’s more of them sitting on the used lot today than 18 months ago.”

Too many used equipment auctions to track? Follow Machinery Pete on Facebook for the latest used equipment auction news.

Have a used tractor you’re looking to sell? List it with MachineryPete.com, the most trusted name in farm equipment, and reach thousands of potential buyers.

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John Deere Introduces 326 P-Tier Compact Wheel Loader

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 15:39:03 GMT

John Deere announces the release of its new 326 P-Tier telescopic compact wheel loader. The 326 P-Tier telescopic compact wheel loader offers 16-plus feet of reach from its telescopic lift arm while still being compact enough to work in barns or other tight spaces.

“Operators will enjoy it for the cab visibility, the boom controls and the exclusive Articulation Plus steering system,” said Luke Gribble, John Deere go-to-market manager. “Put it all together, and the 326 P-Tier is a real multitool for the farm or ranch.”

To help guard against overloading, The Load Torque Indicator System gives visual and audible alarms if stability limits are exceeded during lifting, lowering or extension of the lift arm. In addition, a separate indicator warns of potential overload of the tilt cylinder.

“Features like these help make the 326 P-Tier an operator-friendly wheel loader for farmers and ranchers,” Gribble said. “And it is perfect for less-experienced operators.”

Inside the cab, operators will find a comfortable, easy-to-navigate environment. A 9-inch touchscreen display puts key information within easy view, and it shows key data such as warnings, status and machine-positioning information.

Conveniently placed electro-hydraulic controls offer Auto Return-to-Dig, and Auto Lift and Lower functions, and help to reduce cycle times. Optional boom-mounted lights and standard overhead window allow for a clear view to the end of the telescoping arm.

The new compact wheel loader also features a 23-mph top speed to help move quickly between jobs. And for tight turning in barns and other cramped spaces, its Articulation Plus steering system offers a full 30 degrees of articulation plus 10 additional degrees of rear-wheel steering.

To learn more about the new 326 P-Tier telescopic compact wheel loader, visit JohnDeere.com or contact your local John Deere dealer.

Push, Scoop, Lift and Dig: Is It Time to Deepen Your Equipment Roster?

Tue, 10 Oct 2023 19:56:06 GMT

Industrial equipment — skid-steer loaders, wheel loaders, excavators and backhoes — has become agriculture’s mechanical equivalent of a utility player. Planters, combines and sprayers are agriculture’s specialists — the designated hitters or relief pitchers that have a specific job, but sit on the bench between appearances. Industrial equipment, however, plays every inning.

Here’s a list of industrial machines that might fit well on your roster.

Skid-steer loaders come in a range of sizes, from compact units that can clean barn stalls to large units designed to excavate dirt and load trucks. Boom-mounted accessories multiply their value.

Scouting report: Rubber-tired, skid-steer loaders work best on pavement or hard-packed dirt. They might fumble in soft dirt or mud. Their greatest strengths are front-end accessories, such as grapples, post-hole augers, snow blowers, pallet forks, bale spears and brush cutters.

Compact track loaders (CTLs) are a skid-steer loader with tracks instead of wheels. A CTL can do everything a skid-steer loader can do, with the same front-end accessories, but it will perform better on specific playing surfaces.

Scouting report: Tracks excel off-road, in mud, slop, loose dirt and conditions where their flotation and increased traction outperform rubber tires. Metal tracks stumble on pavement where they slip and slide, making them second team for cleaning paved feedlots. Rubber tracks are an all-surface option.

Wheel loaders on rubber tires are specifically designed for heavy-duty lifting and loading. Their articulated design provides a tight turn-radius, and their elevated frame provides more ground clearance than skid-steer loaders.

Scouting report: Wheel loaders offer easier cab access, better visibility and higher lift-height than skid steers and CTLs but have a higher clearance and greater length.

Excavators with tracks provide flotation in soft ground conditions. They range in size from mini-excavators, such as Kubota’s 10.3-hp K008-5 excavator that can carve a 1'-wide trench up to 6' deep, to industrial diggers, such as Case’s 460 hp CX750D with capacity to open an 8' wide trench 30' deep.

Scouting report: Excavators not only excel at trenching and general excavation, but optional concrete breakers, post-hole augers and other boom-mounted accessories widen their uses.

Backhoes are rubber-tired industrial tractors with a bucket loader on the front and a diggerstick and bucket for digging on the rear. They often find new careers on farms after retiring from big league construction companies.

Scouting report: A backhoe’s ability to move dirt with its bucket and dig holes or trenches makes it a multipurpose machine. Backhoes can only rotate 90 degrees to their axis to dump dirt, and their hydraulic stabilizers must be raised and lowered every time the machine is repositioned.

Telehandlers are often misunderstood. They look like a wheel loader but their single-boom design and unique steering give them distinctive skills. A flick-of-a-switch provides a choice between front-wheel steer, rear-wheel steer or crab steer. Low-positioned, side-entry cabs give easy entry, and their single-arm boom offers exceptional lift height. Some come with booms that extend hydraulically to increase their reach.

Scouting report: Telehandlers are designed for lifting more than pushing. They can be used to lift and load materials but favor silage and bulky bedding. Popular accessories include bale grapples, pallet forks and work platforms.

Used Versus Abused

Used backhoes, excavators, wheel loaders and other industrial machines can be a great option for farmers and ranchers.

“Farmers might only put 50 or 100 hours a year on a backhoe or excavator, so a used machine from a contractor might work real well for them,” says Brad DeVault with Fabick Cat. “At first glance it might seem
a machine traded in by a general contractor is worn out, but most of those companies work hard at maintaining their machines because they can’t afford breakdowns. The engines and pumps are usually in decent shape; it’s the wear points such as pins and bushings on loaders and the rails on tracks you need to check on used machines.

“Machines that were on-lease from dealers are usually in good shape because the leasee is responsible to return it in good shape. Plus, leased machines usually go through a dealership’s shop before it goes out on their lot,” DeVault adds.

Hire, Rent, Lease or Buy?

Farmers and ranchers traditionally hire contractors to work on tile lines, grub out trees or dig up damaged tile lines, but many are now buying their own industrial machinery.

“Hiring a contractor means you have to wait until he can do the work, plus it’s not cheap,” says Mike Hall, a sales manager for Titan Machinery. “Some farmers rent a backhoe or excavator to do tile work or grub out trees, but rental puts them at the mercy of when a machine is available to rent. If a machine is leased or bought, then it’s on the farm, available when it’s needed. And once it’s on the property it’s amazing how many ways they find to use it. Guys will lease a backhoe or an excavator or a wheel loader to use it on a long-term project, but end up buying it once they find out how much they use it.”

Machinery Pete: Used Skid Steer Prices Double In 10 Years

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 18:27:06 GMT

This year, auction prices on all types of construction equipment have been strong.

I have been tracking auction prices on heavy equipment for 34 years now, and in the past year alone, I’ve compiled 3,359 auction prices on skid steers.

30-Year Snapshot of Skid Steer Auction Prices

The year started with a definite bang as the first two weeks of January produced the third, fourth and fifth skid steer auction prices north of $100,000. Twenty years ago, in 2003, the highest auction price that year on a skid steer was $24,500 for a Bobcat S250 sold in Princeton, Minn.

A decade later, the top price on a skid steer was up to $50,000 for a 2008 John Deere CT332 with 250 hours that sold at a Greenfield, Ind. auction.

This past January, those prices were more than doubled. An auction in Tuscaloosa, Ala., featured a 2022 Deere 331G skid steer with 90 hours that sold for $120,000. Six days later in Hazlehurst, Ga., a 2021 Deere 333G skid steer with 107 hours went for $116,000 and a 2019 Caterpillar 299D3 with 130 hours brought $112,500.

Excavators, Loaders and Dozers are Popular Too

Other red-hot sectors from the used construction equipment field the past two years include mini/compact excavators, wheel loaders and dozers.

I’ve seen 13 Kubota KX080-4 compact excavators sell at auction the past two years from $85,000 up to a high of $102,000 for a 2019 model with only 35 hours.

The seven highest auction prices ever for Bobcat mini excavators, from $63,000 to $76,000, all happened between May and December 2022. So far in 2023, the highest auction price for a mini excavator was in Georgia in April. A 2021 model E50R2 with 181 hours sold for $63,000.

Prices Could Soften Soon

The pandemic and subsequent supply chain issues pinched availability for all types of new equipment. Even more important to note was the historic bottoming out of used inventory levels on dealer lots, which climaxed in spring and early summer 2022.

There was a wide gap between high buyer demand and low supply from fall 2021 to summer 2023, hence the rising and record auction prices. However, there has been a noticeable rise in the supply of used units for sale on dealer lots across North America.

As it stands right now, it looks like 2022 will be the high-water mark for used construction equipment values. The auction data at MachineryPete.com tells the tale.