New DF 554 on order

[rayh]

Just ordered a DF554 April 8 with cab and loader. Ordered direct from China. Looking forward to getting it in July--hopefully--

[3RRL]

We need to see pictures as soon as you get that thing.
That's a really nice sized tractor. I'd like to see all the goodies it comes with.
Rob-

[Artrac]

Ray, what country are you in?

[rayh]

Forgot to mention...I live in Alberta, Canada

[tractor]

Ray,

Are you shipping just 1 tractor? Or did you fill a container with other goodies? I'm just south of you in northern Idaho, and I'm waiting until the larger (35 and 40 hp) shuttle shift tractors will be ready. It is a great tractor, I have knowledge of the DF254/304 and DF354/404 tractors.
Your 55HP must also be regular gearbox.
Did you order with or without loader?
I'm debating on using Hanmey or Dongfeng's own brand "Townsunny" or possibly go with a US made loaders.
Good luck and keep us posted.
Steve

[rayh]

Steve,
I ordered a container load. 1 - DF 554 synchro, cab, loader (shuttle was not available yet) 2 -DF254G2 synchro, shuttle and loader, and rototiller and some other toys
Looking forward to getting my container. Will keep you posted on progress!!
Ray

[tractor]

What brand loader did you buy?

[rayh]

It was the chinese brand Dong Feng. Std 1815 mm bucket

[tractor]

That must be the "Townsunny" loader. I have heard that it is supposed to be a decent loader. Someone rated it as a 7 out of 10, and well worth the money.
Did you get the loaders for all 3 tractors or just the 254's?
Please let me know your thoughts on those loaders.
Thanks,
Steve

[3RRL]

Ray,
Can you post a link to your tractor model which lists the specifications?
Thanks,
Rob-

[rayh]

Here is the link to Dong Feng site: www.df-tractor.com/

[rayh]

I looked and studied many different Chinese brands. I wanted about 45 HP, but I wanted a GOOD cab and loader. There was some FOTON tractors close by, and I went and looked them over. They are a very good tractor in the bigger sizes, but 40 HP has a poor cab and small operator's platform. High transmission in the center. With big feet this is no good. All the smaller(Under 70HP) have the angle gear style front wheel drive. This is OK for under 35 HP, but at 50 HP with a loader, you need heavier. DF have a planetary available at 55 HP. and the platform is almost flat. This made up my mind.

[3RRL]

Thanks for sharing that link. It looks to me the Df is a little more tractor than my Kama 554. At the time I bought, I did the same as you in making my choice. In 2005 the Kama had the edge over the other Chinese tractors with some deciding features and weight, which made my mind up.

The DF appears to have u jointed direct front drive instead of the reduction type. (this is a BIG plus)
It weighs more, if without wheel and front weights 5525lbs vs 4940 (without wheel weights or front weights)
It has more 3pt lift, 2654lbs vs 2081lbs (24" back of PTO for both)
It has 12 speeds forward an 4 reverse whereas my Kama has shuttle shift 8 forward and 8 reverse.
It has synchro shift
The other specs and construction are similar, but that front drive system is big tractor construction. I wish I had that on my 554!
That's a well made tractor you are getting. What do they go for, without cab if I may ask?
Rob-

[Artrac]

They tell me 50HP is the biggest EPA engine available... for now.

[rayh]

EPA engines are only required, if going to USA.