In Reply to: N and R's posted by bubba on October 15, 2000 at 20:33:11:
Bubba,
I don't know much about r's, but I bought an N-7(1982 w/upgrades) two years ago. It replaced my 6602(hillside 6600). It'll cut twice plus what my 02 would. Positives: will work on slopes with slight mod., N-7 engine is good(doesn't blow up), comfy and quiet cab. Belts and stuff are easy to replace once you figure out the tricks shown in book. Negatives: some parts can be expensive. Had my hydro blow up, cost $5500 for hydro alone.
I'd recommend buying 84 or newer if possible. N-5 & 6 are similar machine with cage blocked off some and smaller engine. Look for heavy finals if possible, they hold up longer.
Once you learn to run it, it'll make a real clean sample. Will also blow grain out back if you set fan too high.
Hope that helps
Art