Combines Buying a Gleaner QuestionIJ

You should buy an R-52, they are nice little machines with an appetite that would suit you fine

I would also consider a R-42, granted you won't break any speed records, you will keep the machine full. Whether you run an R-52 at 4-5 mph or an R-42 at 3-4 mph, the machine is full. We were considered putting an 8 row head and 20' platform on a R-42 because it had more capacity than our old White 8900 (we ran 2.0 mph in 200+ bu corn) on the 8 row head. We would have had to put heavier final drives on it to carry the 8 row head, and possiably an extra lift cylinder, but it should run a 6 row w_o any problems. If you have the handling capacity at the bin site, then the the 52 might work better since you can turn the truck around faster. If not, the 42 might be a better option since you will be running slower to give that truck more time. We ended up with a White 2600 (r-62) because it had (at the time) most of the updates, less hours and was field ready w_heads. The 42 hadn't come in yet and would have needed some updates, heavier final drives and heads to get it ready. We did get a 2nd grain cart to keep the machine rolling because of the speed increase. Just my thoughts. Good luck. Matt

We moved up from an F3 running on about 450 acres very similiar to you and went to an R52. Had looked at R40s and R50s but were sceptical of the Deutz air cooled. I'm over 100 miles from the nearest dealer and have to handle repairs myself and when asked about someone to go help with the engine, they told me to stick with the Cummins. That way I could easily get help. Ended up spending more than we planned but well worth it. If nothing else get in the cab of a R52 and see what I mean.