72 big enough?

cdlong · #1 07-31-2012, 04:56 AM

I'm thinking about getting a "tiller only" tractor. Seems everytime I turn around, someone needs a garden or yard tilled. It's a hassle changing the sleeve hitch and tiller gear box out on the 1450. I'm looking at a 72 with creeper gear, although I'd rather have a 122. My 1st "puller' was a 122 and I have a soft spot for them. Will the 72 be able to handle the tiller effectively? If yes, how much wheel weights should I mount?
Thanks

Matt G. · #2 07-31-2012, 06:41 AM

You don't need any wheel weights for a tiller, but I'd say 12 hp is the minimum if you want to use both extensions.

CADplans · #3 07-31-2012, 08:46 AM

The Magnum 8HP on my TroyBilt 20" tiller is barely enough, and it doesn't have to move the tractor and me also!!

drglinski · #4 07-31-2012, 01:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Matt G.

You don't need any wheel weights for a tiller, but I'd say 12 hp is the minimum if you want to use both extensions.

You are right-- a tiller is mighty heavy enough on it's own.

mrcubcadet · #5 07-31-2012, 02:10 PM

How much wider is a #1 with extensions than a #2?

I run a #2 tiller with my 105 every year.

Matt G. · #6 07-31-2012, 04:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mrcubcadet

How much wider is a #1 with extensions than a #2?

I run a #2 tiller with my 105 every year.

It's the same width. You must have a strong engine, soft soil, or both. I had a #1 with both extensions on the 128 I used to have...tilling at full depth worked the engine pretty hard because northern IL dirt is pretty hard stuff.

cdlong · #7 08-01-2012, 05:25 AM

Thanks guys. Bigger is better!

red56turbo · #8 08-01-2012, 11:42 AM

I run my #2 tiller on my 149. She'll snort when I hit some hard spots. I don't have the hard clay-type stuff that Matt did. No weights needed. I like running with the hydro, but that's my preference. The main reason I like the 149 is the hydro lift. That's the cat's meow compared to the armstrong lift.

Those tillers are heavy. You'd be better off with a spring assist on the 122 if you go that route. Good luck and keep us posted on what you decide.

fixerlr · #9 08-02-2012, 11:14 AM

I have a tiller on my 123 and seems to good power as far as weight could use weight on front gets pretty light doesnt turn very good in soft dirt and gets bouncy when tiller is up have hydro lift would be hard to lift manual 12 hp is as low hp as you want to go

mrcubcadet · #10 08-02-2012, 11:35 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Matt G.

It's the same width. You must have a strong engine, soft soil, or both. I had a #1 with both extensions on the 128 I used to have...tilling at full depth worked the engine pretty hard because northern IL dirt is pretty hard stuff.

Rebuilt K241, with a .010 bore.

Soil type, I'd have to say I've tilled in a little bit of all. No issue in either, except for the rough ride!