buying first tractor worried about def system

[Jan_Sauer]

Looking hard at picking up a new tractor. Was set on an LS MT225HE (basically a NH Workmaster 25), but my local dealer can't get one and has had them on order for months. I did find an LS MT235HE at another dealer for a fair price... only catch is, it's got a DEF system. I've never owned a tractor with DEF, and honestly all I ever hear is complaints about it. So for anyone with real-world hours on these: what are the actual downsides of running DEF on a small tractor like this? Is it just an inconvenience, or am I setting myself up for regrets down the line with extra maintenance, sensors, and potential failures?

 

[oskar_medk]

youll need to keep your def fresh, since it goes bad over time, especially when it's hot or exposed. The system that uses def can have issues like sensor and pump failures or clogs, mostly if the def is cheap stuff. Plus, if you run out of def, your car might go into a low-power mode

 

[bell0spark]

I wanted the MT225HE but had to go with the MT235HE since it was the only one around. The DEF system's not too bad, just means keeping the fluid fresh and running the engine hard enough now and then. No sensor problems so far, but I've heard they can be pricey. How often do you plan to use it? Just curious.

 

[P1nacolad4]

Looking hard at picking up a new tractor. Was set on an LS MT225HE (basically a NH Workmaster 25), but my local dealer can't get one and has had them on order for months. I did find an LS MT235HE at another dealer for a fair price... only catch is, it's got a DEF system. I've never owned a tractor with DEF, and honestly all I ever hear is complaints about it. So for anyone with real-world hours on these: what are the actual downsides of running DEF on a small tractor like this? Is it just an inconvenience, or am I setting myself up for regrets down the line with extra maintenance, sensors, and potential failures?

Honestly, for a 35 hp tractor, DEF is a huge annoyance. It's not the DEF itself, it's the extra sensors and the whole ECU system that manages it. They are expensive to fix when they fail. one tip for you is that if you can still find a clean, non DEF tractor in the 25-30 hp range (like a used MT225 or similar), you might be happier long term

 

[Alan]

Just remember that when it's cold out, DEF can freeze if the temperature drops below 12°F. So, if you're working during winter, it's a good idea to ensure the system has a heater or to have a plan for keeping it warm.