Rising input costs, falling subsidy payments and squeezed profit margins mean many farmers are turning to the second-hand machinery market to add extra firepower or replace their ageing prime mover.

Finding a good second-hand loader tractor can be a tricky task. But with some expert advice, Nick Fone sniffs out some sound performers. We’ve been in search of a tractor around the 110hp-130hp mark.

Reduce the risk when buying a used machine by following Tadhg Brosnan and Colm Egan’s checklist When thinking of buying a second-hand tractor, there are a number of items that need to be looked at ...