Choosing a Small Farm Dozer That Fits Budget and Transport Limits

[MikePhua]

Why Small Dozers Are in High Demand
Compact dozers have become increasingly sought after for farm use due to their versatility, manageable weight, and ability to perform tasks that tractors struggle with—such as grading, driveway cutting, and pad preparation. Their popularity has driven up prices, especially for models with six-way blades and winches. Farmers and landowners often face a dilemma: pay a premium for a well-maintained unit or risk buying an older machine that may need extensive repairs.
Transport Constraints and Weight Considerations
One of the most critical factors in selecting a small dozer is transport capability. Many buyers rely on a 14,000 lb GVWR gooseneck trailer, often pulled by a single rear-wheel pickup like a GMC 3500. This setup limits the payload to roughly 10,500 lbs after accounting for trailer weight. That means the dozer must weigh under 10,000 lbs to stay within safe and legal limits.
Models like the John Deere 350 (especially the straight 350 or 350B) and early Case 450 variants are often considered borderline candidates. The JD 350C and Case 450C, with added features and heavier frames, may exceed the limit. Published specs vary, and real-world weights can differ due to blade type, winch, ROPS, and attachments.
Evaluating Older Models and Their Viability
Several older machines are still circulating in the used market:

• Massey Ferguson 200
  A compact crawler with diesel power and power shuttle. Known for simplicity but may suffer from parts scarcity. Steering issues are common due to aging clutches and linkages.
  
• International 500
  Widely used in agricultural settings. Diesel-powered with decent undercarriage life. Parts availability is limited, but some aftermarket support exists.
  
• Allis Chalmers 653
  Less common, but occasionally found in good condition. Equipped with six-way blades and winches. Track components may be hard to source.
  
• Komatsu D21
  Highly regarded for reliability and ease of operation. Weighs around 7,500 lbs, making it ideal for light trailers. Prices tend to be high due to demand and limited availability.
  

A farmer in Oklahoma once purchased a Komatsu D21A for $13,000 in excellent condition. Despite its small size, the machine handled road maintenance and pad grading with ease. Its direct-drive transmission and responsive blade control made it a favorite for precision work.
The Case for the John Deere 350 Series
The JD 350 series remains a popular choice due to its widespread use in government fleets and strong parts support. Wegner’s in Pennsylvania, for example, still stocks components for these machines. The straight 350 is lighter than the 350B or 350C, making it more suitable for limited trailers. However, buyers should verify weight with actual scale readings, as added features can push the machine over the limit.
A buyer once found a JD 350 with ROPS, sweeps, and a winch listed for $5,000. While the price was attractive, the lack of detailed photos and uncertain condition raised concerns. Machines with winches and angle blades tend to weigh more, and older units may require clutch or undercarriage work.
Renting vs Owning for Farm Use
Renting a dozer may seem cost-effective, but insurance, transport, and time constraints often make ownership more appealing for seasonal farm tasks. Rental machines come with support and replacement guarantees, but they also carry high daily rates. For landowners with multiple properties or recurring needs, owning a small dozer—even one that needs occasional repair—can be more practical.
However, ownership comes with its own costs:

• Maintenance and parts sourcing
  
• Storage and weather protection
  
• Transport logistics between sites
  
• Registration and insurance for trailers and tow vehicles
  

One Vermont landowner shared that his Dresser TD7G, though underpowered for some tasks, was too heavy to move easily. After investing in a 9-ton trailer and a gas-powered haul truck, he realized that hiring a hauler would have been cheaper and more efficient.
Recommendations for Buyers on a Budget
For those seeking a small dozer under 10,000 lbs and within a modest budget:

• Focus on straight JD 350 or early Case 450 models
  
• Avoid machines with winches or heavy blade setups unless verified by scale
  
• Inspect undercarriage wear—rollers, sprockets, and rails are costly to replace
  
• Prioritize machines with six-way blades for versatility
  
• Verify power shuttle or direct drive functionality
  
• Ask for detailed photos and service history before committing
  

If possible, test the machine under load. Steering clutches, blade hydraulics, and track tension are key indicators of overall health.
A Story from the Field
In 2023, a landowner in West Virginia purchased an Allis Chalmers 653 for $9,000. The machine had a six-way blade, winch, and nearly new tracks. Though parts were scarce, the dozer performed well for road grading and pad work. After installing a custom-built trailer cradle and upgrading his tow vehicle to a diesel with exhaust brake, he was able to move the machine between three farms without issue.
Conclusion
Finding a small farm dozer that balances weight, capability, and cost is a challenge—but not impossible. With careful research, realistic expectations, and a willingness to compromise on age or brand, landowners can secure a reliable machine for personal use. Whether it’s a JD 350, Case 450, or Komatsu D21, the right dozer can transform land management from a chore into a craft. In the world of compact crawlers, precision and practicality go hand in hand.