An excellent tractor with a few problems, possibly now fixed
Model Year: 2005
Bought a CK20HST after considerable research. This was then the only locally tractor that could fit in my garage with BH attached, lift half a ton in the bucket and break out a ton with the loader. Only related experience is with skid and track loaders, so can't compare with other models/brands. One or more valves in the KB2365 blew out after a few hours, pouring fluid everywhere. Dealer took tractor back for repair, but never resolved an annoying residual drip. Kioti USA was unresponsive and unhelpful. A sticky pedal later turned out to be a serious tranny problem that required taking the whole tractor apart. The whole loader-arm cracking deal was handled poorly. Being told that loader and BH were made by others and covered by a short warranty did not make me happy. The machine itself has been very satisfactory, other than BH frame bolts that I cannot seem to keep tight. It took about 50 hours to break in, after which power increased noticeably. High speed range is still nearly useless for anything but flat-ground travel; a lower top range would be more useful. Loader speed is slow but power is fine. BH is also very satisfactory. I bought mine with 12" and 24" buckets; smaller for hard-ground digging and stump extraction, larger for scooping up whole trees and shrubs. Both work quite well. Added a removable toothbar in front, which helps greatly in digging gravel and loading dirt and logs: a must-have accessory, IMO. Also added lights to roll-bar. The one accessory I most wish was available is a light-materials bucket for wood chips. I really wanted a skid-loader, for snow plowing (loader is not very good for this) and general handling and safety. But the CK20HST, at the same price, is a far more capable tool for general use, and much easier on the landscape. Highly recommended, IF the new models have some annoying bugs removed and if factory/dealers have improved service capability.
Pros: Good value for capability.
Cons: Some mechanical/hydraulic problems, perhaps fixed in newer models.