Different operations are run differently. If you have your dealer do most repair work and only fix the small stuff probably a Datsun would be fine. We ran a one ton truck for several years and it got to the point we had it so over loaded that when we had the chance to buy a 2.5 ton truck reasonable we didn't hesitate. With the Diesel engine in it it runs nearly as cheaply as some of our gas 3/4 ton pickups and with an automatic and power steering about anyone can drive it.

We are spread out about 40 miles, not centered and when we leave the farm in the morning it is simply poor planning that we should have to return. The service truck carries about 90% of the tools that we would have back at the main shop. If we are at one end ov what we farm and we have to go back to the shop it is basically an hour wasted minimum and usually more like 1.5 hours. The service truck carries enough supplies as well as tools we rarely have to do that.

During what ever season we are in it carries a lot of spare parts. We have spare parts for machines in baskets in our parts room and we can easily load them in the service truck (it has a totally enclosed bed with slide back top and plenty of storage under roof). For example during harvest we carry the combine baskets as as well as most likely to break belts (header drive mostly).

We used to spend a lot of time driving back and forth wasting a lot of time. The big service truck has reduced that considerably.

Every operation is different. If everything we farmed was within 5 miles of home it would be a different story. If we had the local dealer do most of the work it would be a different story (we have a full time mechanic). If we ran all less than 5 year old equipment it would be a different story. What works for some others don't need.

John