Choosing the Right Tiller For Your Compact Tractor

One of Tractor Time with Tim's favorite attachments for the John Deere 1025R is our rear roto-tiller. If you are considering a tractor mounted tiller, you may be seeing many different models, wondering which size, style, or brand is right for you. Hopefully, we can help explain and answer some of those questions for you in this video.
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[@TractorTimewithTim]

I neglected to mention one other 'option' for tillers. Most tillers have 'forward rotation' tines, but you can get some with 'reverse rotation'. I have more information about this and other details on our website: tractortimewithtim.com/2018/03/19/choose-the-right-tiller-for-your-compact-tractor/

[@chrisrexroat3240]

In addition to that Tim, some of the new County Line tillers at Tractor Supply manufactured by Tarter, are switchable between forward or reverse rotation. To switch directions takes some tools to accomplish, but you do have the option. As always, great video! And yes, buy her a camera mount!

[@ERICMB24MF37U24F39]

The "reverse"tillers are for tilling under stones or big humps of grass and the loos ground is putting over it. kzbin.info/www/bejne/p33QZqyElJVkgKM

[@darthvader4hire]

i got JD tiller because like you said because of the finance options. so who made it?

[@incubatork]

All tractor pto shafts do not always turn in the same direction, my Ebro A30L turns anticlockwise, so do most pasquali tracters and there are many others like earlier Valpadana. Having a reversable option is not so good as the tines would have to be straight out from the disc carriers, if you look at most tiller the tines come out at an angle and lock against each other to help with rigidity.

[@incubatork]

.

[@supporterofeverythingyouli6255]

Tim, I wanna thank you and your wife for taking the time and making these very helpful, informative videos on compact tractors and compact tractor implements. You have saved me hours, countless times, so today I thought it was time to say thank you!

[@tonysicily2687]

A REALLY good clear instructional video, PERFECT, just what I wanted.

[@jon2564]

Hi Tim. I have watched hundreds of videos and many on reviews and I must say this was one of the best reviews on anything I personally have seen. You were very precise, factual and you did not babble aimlessly about non-pertinent information. Great job! God bless you and the wife!

[@JeffStewart78..]

This was a Tillerific video. You really "stirred" up some good info to make it easier for us to ground down our options.

[@shawspeaks8252]

Your Great Guy... Bought My Tractor because of you... Her Name is Penny. I have been posting videos of her, as I learn... everyone keeps referring me to you... lol like I don't already know who you are... You the man. I cant wait to get comfortable with Penny... Trying to get her to help me turn my yard into a show yard... lol right now she is just making little messes everywhere she go... Thanks for the tips... I need a Tiller bad... Just got the box blade and running out of things to do with it... and I am Scared of the Backhoe... lol Having fun, Much Respect

[@anthonytosco802]

Tim, I had so many unanswered questions regarding tilers and you answered them. Ty my friend

[@mikedickson2925]

Great vid with lots of info about tillers. Well done.

[@bobivanski5635]

As a retired farmer I can tell you the most important thing about a piece of an equipment is availability of parts

[@TractorTimewithTim]

Very true.

[@bobivanski5635]

Tractor Time with Tim love your videos god bless your family

[@Lord_Volkner]

Thank you for taking the time to make this video.

[@ukewarrior]

Excellent, no nonsense review. Thanks for this !

[@427Ron]

Great job explaining the products

[@bendigr]

perfect timing for this vid. i'm shopping around for a tiller.

[@mickey17y]

Thanks for all the information. I've been toying with the idea of getting a tiller for my new JD2038R. If the snow ever melts here in Maine I'll be tiller shopping.

[@jss3018]

What a lovely description and explanation of the overall function and features of the rototiller. I'm looking for one right now so the info has helped me look a little closer to the actual details of each brand. Thank you. What I'm finding is that most stores carrying them don't have any trained personnel so information is not truly reliable. Thanks again outstanding vidio without the annoying camera movements and unnecessary and annoying personal fluff.

[@chuckr8683]

Just had "informed" my wife a few days ago that a tiller purchase was in our near future. Your video came out at the perfect time. THANKS!!!

[@TractorTimewithTim]

Ha! Glad we could help

[@geraldhaury4199]

Great timing! I am looking for a tiller for my tractor. Thanks for the video. You all always do great. God bless you both.

[@TractorTimewithTim]

You won’t regret it!

[@sheckyfeinstein]

Super thorough and most helpful. Thanks!

[@johnnymossville]

Absolutely agree on loving my tiller. They are such great implements.

[@michaelchilders1658]

Tim, this video was so helpful and reassuring for me as I am basically still a Green/New owner of a John Deere Subcompact tractor! I will feel much more confident when I choose the tiller I want to purchase.👍 Thank you!!🇺🇸

[@Zurar]

Thanks for the info! I've only, once, rented a tiller for my 1026r and it did an awesome job for the job it had to perform... far better than I had originally expected of it. I don't have enough use for one right now, to warrant buying one, but I hope to in the future.

[@station173]

Just bought a woods tiller for my Bx25d,like you said I love it!

[@johniac7078]

I really like what you guys are doing. Great information, terrific focus on family. Thanks!

[@TractorTimewithTim]

Thanks for watching!

[@dalewilliamson1125]

Thanks for sharing the tips, Tim!!

[@mark-ew8hk]

GOOD JOB Tim & helper

[@circlepfarm9729]

That was a very informative video! Thanks, Tim!

[@ronsellew5696]

Good job Tim, a lot of good information!

[@rogernichols3722]

I love my suction mount phone holder!!! It even stays put on my Jeep Wrangler with the top off lol. Also love y’all’s videos!!! Keep it up

[@UrbanYouthPro]

Great video production ! Sound was great, clips and narration went together well, full of honest information ! Nice work.

[@TractorTimewithTim]

Thanks for the kind words.

[@donnaorvald3376]

more info than I thought there could be about a tiller. LOVED the video. I hope you already purchased the suction cup camera holder!

[@tactical690r2]

Thanks for the review, very informative.

[@bbsdad7]

Great video. Thanks for the info I'm looking to purchase a tiller soon.

[@thomasvermeersch2711]

Really enjoyed this very good!

[@bradcauffman8159]

Thank you - really helps in making my purchase.

[@shawnboss5542]

Great information Tim thank you !!

[@wireman7780]

Hi Tim, I actually own a BX25D Kubota (very similar to your Jonny 1025). I want to thank you for showing your audiences the different products, how they are used, and how you use yours. I learned a lot about sub-compact tractors for you. Thank You !!!

[@TractorTimewithTim]

Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@MaineOutdoorsChannel]

awesome video... solid advice from TTWT as always

[@Andrew-er5cf]

Very nice and helpful video. Thank you very much.

[@mikefortune4796]

nice video Tim lots of good information

[@ScoutCrafter]

Great video Tim! I remember the rebar incident at 6:44! I remember almost swallowing my gum! I was shocked and impressed that you came away without damage! Thanks!

[@TractorTimewithTim]

Yea, it wasn't one of my favorite memories. ...but it proved that the little King Kutter Tiller is tough as nails.

[@davidfultz6483]

Great info. Thanks Tim.

[@roycelarson6337]

I don’t have a question or comment except to commend you on your presentation-Very Good!

[@TractorTimewithTim]

Thanks! Very kind!

[@nashguy207]

Tim even tho this video doesn't apply to me since I don't own a tractor LOL I thought this was a very informative video for those owning or looking to buy a sub compact tractor and will be looking at tillers for it as well I will say I don't think I would own a sub compact tractor with out a tiller Yours is one of the most versatile tools I have seen. You use it on so many different jobs and situations and it seems to work well for most if not all of them and remember always refer to rule #1. LOL Thumbs up for Christy taking the video go by a car mount camera holder. LOL There Christy I told him. Hope you guys have a great week and God Bless!!!

[@bmallett10]

Great info! Thank you

[@royroddey]

very helpful - many thanks!

[@larrymortimer4833]

Good info Tim. Thanks!

[@jarettwilliams2778]

Perfect video great job

[@bendrinkin1782]

Needed this video a couple months ago! Bought the Chinese tiller from agri supply and it was cheaper than tractor supply. But I love it. Tilled a small garden to begin with and planted watermelons, carrots, and potatoes.

[@TractorTimewithTim]

Tiller Rule #1 on display!

[@James-fs4rn]

Very helpful info. Planning to go with a Dirt Dog RT205. Thank you!

[@dwayneloftice2326]

Great guidelines to know, Tim. Currently in the market and "kickin' tires!"

[@ashokdayani]

Very good inputs

[@jjwang5052]

Very helpful!

[@mi2tn]

Another week or two and my tiller will get to work. Hope yesterday's snow is the last one till next winter. Ground is very soft so we need some sun. Great video.

[@TractorTimewithTim]

We’re supposed to get snow tomorrow and Saturday.

[@f.davidbush9093]

Thanks. Never thought about one but I enjoyed the very thoughtful insite into the world of tillers. Two thumbs up. Drifterbike

[@TractorTimewithTim]

Thanks Drifter. Hard to believe how useful it is. It even makes other dirt work easier.

[@timkd5vmv583]

The finance committee has spoken!! She wants a camera mount for the truck so you better get to finding her one. Lots of great information today. Rule #1 is correct.

[@abcarp1302]

Lots of great information, I work at a tiller distributor. Gear driven is more expensive to repair and maintain your slip clutch.

[@mikehornsby599]

Good stuff enjoyed that!!

[@theburnhams2925]

Good video Tim. I've owned an ancient Howard P50 "Select-a-Tilth" tiller for several years (and don't know how I "lived" without it!) Always used "walk-behind, rear tine" tiller(s) before, but there is NO comparison! One comment I'd like to make is that a "forward-rotating" tiller, while it may not deliver as fine a tilth as "rearward-rotating" models, has one major advantage over the "backwards" tillers: it will "drive" a stuck tractor out of trouble. I have "stuck" my 2WD tractor, a heavy Allis-Chalmers 5040, lifted the tiller for better traction (to no effect) then discovered that by engaging the rotating tiller with the ground, it will provide enough fwd thrust to get outta "trouble." I must take exception to the claim that chain-drive tillers are superior to gear drive. My first 3-point tiller (also a Howard) was chain-driven and was a constant headache: Chains not only stretch, but they also wear out faster---especially if sand inevitably finds its way into the chain box--and the chain's tensioner "shoe" must be kept in nearly-perfect adjustment or "all heck breaks loose" in that box! And opening a dirt/mud-encrusted housing in the field (even if you happen to have all the proper tools, and an oil-drain pan with you---which is highly unlikely) is not recommended. This means a trip back to the garage, which, depending upon distance is time-consuming and frustrating (especially with narrow planting "windows" and "weather" moving in....) Chains aren't very expensive, but if your sprockets are worn that is an expensive proposition! There are good reasons why manufacturers have opted to build with gears (even tho that is undoubtedly more expensive than chain/sprocket const.) and I think it's because they "got tired of" warrantied chain-driven tillers being returned for repairs/adjustments.

[@TractorTimewithTim]

Thanks for your comment. I think I mentioned that I prefer gear drive, right???

[@Jorgemartinez-qo6yq]

RT1149 is awesome. I love it. It's my favorite implement. Plus it's green.

[@ericpowell335]

Awesome video. Most of your videos are just entertaining demonstrations and just make me want to run out and buy, but this video is full of practical owner-based reviews. Keep a good mix of both as they are great!

[@TractorTimewithTim]

Thanks Eric. You might be surprised to hear that producing good entertainment focused videos surrounding the Tractor theme is MUCH more difficult than creating the informational type.

[@ericpowell335]

I know there are a lot of videos watching other youtubers use their machines with little explanation of what's going on until they shut the tractor down and walk back to the camera. Those videos have some value I guess but they are hard to watch for 15 minutes.

[@halad1174]

very useful thank u

[@bjbeagles9119]

Good info video...thanks BJ Beagles

[@TomiaMacQueen]

very clear. Thank you

[@sheckyfeinstein]

Good info. Thanks.

[@MegaFireRat]

Awesome video thanks 👍

[@mcxmike10]

Thanks Tim, I just bought the same model for my "Johnny"

[@acanadianineurope814]

nice video, job well done.

[@Lakesidearmorer]

Great timing Tim. I'm looking into a tiller for my 2305. Thanks for the info.

[@h20dad1]

When I bought my 2305 new, I had the JD dealer throw in a 4' Khun and I have used it for 6 years now and love everything about it.

[@TractorTimewithTim]

Tiller Rule #1

[@michaelmactavish1728]

my kubota dealer has woods,bush hog and land pride tillers on sale 4 and 5 feet wide for $2100

[@kevint8886]

helpful, thank you

[@loco...77]

Nice video

[@FisherCatProductions]

RE: 6 tine tillers. They use considerably more HP so check with dealer on their requirement. EXCELLENT video.

[@scott5609]

Man you are awesome I love your videos

[@russellpetrie119]

thumbs up for the camera lady

[@derekdreke4990]

That looks fun as hell

[@TractorTimewithTim]

Hell doesn’t sound very fun to me!

[@justinshaw5706]

I know I've brought this up to you before, but thought its worth mentioning again. With my Woods tiller, they used a single bolt and rely on compression to keep the tines in place. They came lose and I had a hard time getting them realigned and wound up back to the dealer to get them tightened back into place. Where as a shear bolt design that your tiller looks like it uses would be a much easier fix. Maybe I just don't yet have the "know how" to get my system working properly, time will tell.

[@mightymoeexcavating754]

Thanks for sharing! You Oughta try the magnetic mount with the ball

[@stevebradley678]

Thanks for the info Tim, I’m ready to pull the strings on a tiller but like you said they are so many and I’m leaning on kk the price out of state runs around $1550 and around me (Georgia) runs around $1899 can’t decide. Get a window mount for Christy. Lol

[@incubatork]

Nice informative video, Re slipping clutch transmition shaft, if you are not using the slipping clutch drive shaft often they stick, any slight moisture that may get in starts oxidization(rust) on the shiney metal discs that soon rust even with normal air humidity so its always best to check with a couple of prize barrs to make sure it slips before you start. Quite often you can tell the different types of drive by looking at the cover, the gear drive usually has an outward dimple between the top and bottom gears, this is to give clearence for the nut holding the centre gear on gear drives, with chain drives this is not needed.

[@catraversecity2345]

thanks much!

[@bruceaplin]

Thanks Tim

[@harmab2]

Thank you!!!! I really needed this video!!!! Could you also do a video on rottery mowers

[@TractorTimewithTim]

We'll see how this one fares. Seems like folks SAY they want informational videos, but the view counts indicate that folks really want entertainment videos :-)

[@brosselot1]

Great information. I'm in the market for one.

[@TractorTimewithTim]

You’ll love it!

[@crfowler]

Tim, thank you for the detailed information on all the things to consider when looking for a tiller.... perhaps you should change your channel name to Tractor “Tine” with Tim ;)..... I enjoy all of your videos by the way.

[@brandonbentley4413]

I use a Tar River Implement chain drive 50 inch tiller on my BX and love it. Never heard of the brand before but the dealer we got the tractor from let us have it brand new for $1250.

[@LacyO86]

Still loving your tar river? Looking to invest in one and I'm not familiar with the brand either.

[@dpd16790]

one of my cousins has a tillervator.. its a 12' wide tiller with tines sniped where the crop grows.. it is made to do what a cultivator does in weed removal but also tills the soil in the middle of the plants for some reason...

[@Wheelwards]

Great vedio!!! I am a new user and I'm repairing a broken chain. I'm concerned that there are shear bolts (or slip plates) that have not been maintained for years. How do I remove the cowling that protects the PTO shaft at both ends so that I can inspect either the slip plates or the shear bolts?

[@houndsmanone4563]

This was excellent information, Tim. Considering a teller but don't think I need just yet. Hey, get a camera holder for the camera holder (smile). Loved the video.

[@TractorTimewithTim]

Yea, already got a camera holder!!!’ :-)

[@johndeno562]

Thank you for answering one of the most asked questions on FB. Seems that is asked daily. Great video and get that girl some equipment for the camera.

[@TractorTimewithTim]

Thanks John. Don't hesitate to share it.

[@johndeno562]

Have you ever considered numbering them to make sharing easier. (just a thought)

[@TractorTimewithTim]

I assume you mean numbers in the title? How would that make sharing easier?

[@johndeno562]

Tractor Time with Tim When you want tell someone about a video that might help them in there situation I guess in my mind it would be easier to give them a number of the video instead of going through the videos until you find the one you want to suggest to them. The way I do it now is just say ttwt has a video on that you should see. From that point I don't know what happens or if they find it. Just rambling I guess.

[@d.a.ballou9740]

It would also help your viewers keep track of when the videos were posted (without having to look at the posted date).

[@martineastburn3679]

I have a 1025 and a JD tiller. I've used it all over the acreage. From the garden to the rose garden and water way/dry creek. Yes it is handy. I use it as a counter balance sometimes and other times I use my large mower. Powered tillers are handy.

[@tractorboy31]

Martin Eastburn lol once i put on my 3 bottom plow for some extra counterbalance when trying to take some big bites of snow with my bucket

[@MrDoyle07]

You made me smile, "Mrs Tim" 😁 And Tim, let her buy some cool stuff for all she does. 😆

[@ncsucpetractorfun]

Tim, one thing that people with clutch protected equipment need to remember is that they need to be burned yearly to make sure they are not rusted/frozen. I knew a guy that destroyed a baler when the clutch was rusted and the clutch didn’t slip when a fence post went in. 😭

[@bobcutlip9448]

burned?

[@wildbill23c]

@@bobcutlip9448 Slip the clutch. Basically you need to loosen the bolts on the slip clutch a little bit, then repeatedly engage and disengage the PTO to allow the clutch disc(s) to slip which ensures the clutch isn't seized by rust, dirt, etc. Then tighten the bolts back down you'll need a feeler gauge and follow the directions in the manual for the tiller to reset the clutch disc clearance. Only takes a few minutes to do, and highly recommended, rather required...if that clutch is seized up and you hit something it can cause damage to the gearbox on the tiller and/or the tractor's PTO.

[@AF1US]

Really enjoying your videos Tim - that tractor show you were visiting looks awesome. Where are some of the good ones to attend?

[@TractorTimewithTim]

This one in Louisville, mid Feb is the best. Really the only one with sufficient compact tractor presence to make it worthwhile. Thanks for watching!

[@markhull1366]

Hi Tim. I've watched off and on for awhile. Having just bought a new piece of virgin ground for a new homestead, I knew I was going to need something for my BX 2360 to till about an acre for the yard. There was a lot of small growth trees we're clearing with a dozer, but Oh Boy the roots! I'm buying a King Kutter XB tomorrow (I think). Think it will do the job? Most of them are thumb size or smaller. The soil is loose but really rough after the dozer does it's thing. Thanks! Edit: I just found the vid on the new 3 acre yard.

[@shiawasseehobbyfarmer4844]

Great video tim! I have been in the market for over a year now. And i still dont know what I want. I keep hoping for a used one to pop up on craigslist and get a screaming deal. But no such luck. Thanks for the vid, gave me some things to think about

[@TractorTimewithTim]

I think tiller prices have gone up a little bit.

[@GSeydel]

Hi Tim, How about a video onTiller maintenance. Maybe tips on lubing the PTO shaft. I've learned a lot about tractors from you. Thanks

[@TractorTimewithTim]

I typically do not lube the shaft...meaning the telescoping portion. I DO grease the universal joints frequently.

[@marclussier2275]

Thanks Tim, for all of your hard work and dedication to your videos and to the wealth of knowledge, that you provide us. Be safe and God bless you and your family.

[@TractorTimewithTim]

Thanks Marc! Very kind!

[@andrewnichols1240]

I'm trying to find an atachment to first break up reed grass and level very uneven ground? Tried scarfire it just dragged huge clumps if sod then a disc over n over doesn't cut in at all? So a garden ain't looking too doable? Tiller be nice as so as?

[@johanbos160]

Good video tim and good advice about the tillers and you need a camara holder 😂👍

[@TractorTimewithTim]

What do you mean? I HAVE a camera holder! :-) She complains once in awhile, but does a pretty good job :-)

[@homesteadspirit9209]

i am considering a tiller for my New Holland...i already have a one bottom plow, disk and cultivator though....

[@petenolte4192]

Sure another tiller episode your mean and I can't find a used one up in Wisconsin but great video!!!!!!

[@TractorTimewithTim]

Keep looking. Not trying to be mean. Sorry.