Tom’s Story — Iowa Corn and Soybean Farm
A practical, no-drama upgrade from a faithful 1998 John Deere 6400 to a low-hour 2018 John Deere 6120M— saving ~$65k vs buying new while improving field efficiency with modern guidance.
“He said these guys actually know farm equipment, not just trying to move inventory.”
Tom Peterson has been farming the same 200 acres in central Iowa for over 15 years... The news wasn't good—$25,000 rebuild on a $30,000 tractor.
“At that point, you're just throwing good money after bad,” Tom explains.
New tractor sticker shock: a John Deere 6120M configured for their needs at $155,000. Used lot units either high-hour or needing repairs—swapping problems, not solving them.
Referral kicks in. Requirement: reliable field work, decent hours, under $90k. Three weeks later, a 2018 John Deere 6120M from an Illinois farm auction—only 847 hours, shed-kept, one owner.
“When they sent me the photos, I could hardly believe it. It looked like it just rolled off the showroom floor.”
Asking price $89,500—about $65k less than new. Test drive confirmed: smooth hydraulics, perfect shifts, quiet engine. We handled paperwork, delivery, and financing support.
+400 hours added, no downtime. Power is ample for field work; GPS guidance improved placement and reduced overlap—efficiency up without new-tractor pricing.
Savings reinvested: planter upgrade and new machine-shed roof—avoiding years of heavy payments.
Buy good used, from people who know and stand behind the iron. Clear history, mechanical inspection, straight talk. Relationship matters—ongoing check-ins, parts help, and answers when you need them.
Would Recommend: “Absolutely”
Tell us your acres, tasks, and budget—we’ll source, vet, and deliver.