Tell us about yourself and your farming operations.
We are 4th generation beef, sheep and arable farmers, farming 420 acres. We have run mainly Massey Fergusons since grandfather first had his T20. We’ve had 30-odd Massey’s since! At the moment we have a 35 that dad bought new as his first tractor, which we rebuilt a few years ago. We’ve also had an MF 5455, MF 5S.145 and a Fendt 516. All 3 have come off Dave Smith!!!
What did you have before you bought the MF 5S.145?
Before the MF 5S.145 we had a MF 5713S, the only reason we changed that tractor was I disliked the rubber push button hydraulics, otherwise we liked the tractor. When I sold it I was talking to a mate and he was after a tractor. I told him it was at RVW Pugh’s so he went down and bought it and is really pleased with it.
Why did you buy the MF 5S.145?
We bought the MF 5S as we wanted a bit more power for hauling 14T trailers and the combination drill, but still wanted a compact tractor that would be handy on the straw bedder over the winter. We had a new loader with this tractor as the old loader had done 16 years on three tractors, so we upgraded to a MF 3819 loader. It was very nice on the electric joystick as we have another farm four miles away and do more bales now. We haul them back in the summer and leave the Merlo at home to unload.
What is the MF 5S’ best feature?
We can’t pin point the best single feature on the MF 5S.145 as it is just a great all-rounder. I like the functions on the joystick as we have the efficient spec and we can change gear and use the hydraulics with one hand.
What improvements has the MF 5S brought to your farm?
The improvements that we’ve noticed include great efficiency as we can use it as a big tractor for the sowing, but it is still a compact model for the shed and for feeding work in the winter – we run a Fendt 516 but it’s a little large for the winter work. The MF 5S.145 punches above its weight as it can keep up with the 516 as we have had the larger tyres option. On the loader work it’s fast and comfortable carrying bales and hauling 17 silage bales with ease.
Would you recommend the MF 5S.145 to others?
I’d definitely recommend the MF 5S.145 to anybody. I’d put it up against any other make as it’s a very versatile tractor and fits our business very well. I’d love another when the MF 5455 starts getting old, an MF 5S.125 would be ideal!!