re: Orange green or red tractor?

I know of a few old fords that are damn good tractors. I wouldn't be scared of a used one. The big benefit from them is what you said about parts at Napa. That's worth a lot when your broke down.

I'd be much more brand-picky with a new tractor. Id buy pretty much anything pre-emissions. If you don't care about comfort or a very nice layout you can get some very good deals on something that will blow smoke and make horsepower.