In 4WD configuration, this tractor is a mountain goat. The short wheelbase (approx. 65 inches) allows it to turn incredibly tight circles. For rotary tilling, box blading a driveway, or mowing steep ditches with a 5-foot brush hog, the low center of gravity (thanks to the under-chassis fuel tank on some models) prevents the white-knuckle tipping sensation of taller tractors.
| Tractor | HP | Advantages | Disadvantages | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | 28 | Fuel sipper, compact, excellent 4WD traction, low center of gravity | Parts harder to find, no power steering | | Ford 8N / 9N | 24-27 | Cheap parts everywhere, iconic brand | No live PTO, no 4WD, archaic 3-point (not true position control) | | Yanmar YM2610 | 26 | Similar reliability, better parts network (Fredricks) | More expensive on used market, weaker hydraulics | | John Deere 750 | 20 | Dealer support, Yanmar engine | Less HP, more expensive for a clean one | Mitsubishi Mt2801d
The original wiring harnesses are 30+ years old. The insulation cracks, grounds corrode, and the tiny fusible links blow. Many owners simply re-wire the entire tractor with a universal 12V automotive harness and marine-grade switches. In 4WD configuration, this tractor is a mountain goat
Instead, they were imported second-hand by specialized dealers who would refurbish them, repaint them, and sell them as affordable alternatives to newer domestic models. The "2801" in the model number typically refers to a 28-horsepower engine, while the "D" stands for Diesel (and often implies 4WD, though not exclusively—check the front axle). For rotary tilling, box blading a driveway, or
The Mitsubishi diesel engine is famously thrifty. You can run this tractor for 8–10 hours on 5 gallons of diesel. It sips fuel while lugging along at 1,800 RPM. Compared to a comparable Ford 8N or Ferguson TO-30, the MT2801D is a hyper-miler.