First of all, size and outfit for what you need now, keeping in mind the size figure for the future. I had a 1025R JD. In -10 weather, the "massive' 18HP going to the front blower meant I was doing about five hours freezing the Gilhooleys off. I needed to put more years into my ability so this is it. Being retired and blown up in my prior uniformed career, I'm not agile anymore. So I added steps and other comforts. I opted not to use a 3-pt auger in favor of 3rd-function up front. Grapples, brush hog, grader/scraper, loader, forks, bucket. boom lift, 10KW PTO generator, etc. all have their handy uses. Beet juice in the rear tires is a must. Consider "industrial" vs. turf or Ag tires. Ag tires really tear up turf, while industrial (shown) are a good compromise. Re: hydraulic top link. By all means, especially when using a quick hitch. Make sure you get adequate length (mine's 32"). Also large diameter preferably with a locking lever. When transporting implements, the bumps impart a large torque on the top link. You'll blow the seals on the 2-3000 pound links. Everybody goes a bit different on their setups. I'm pretty much in my sweet spot on this one.
