Robert6401
Bronze Member
Hey,
I have read a lot of the posts (probably all) about the jerky 3pt hitch on the L2800/L3400, and I wanted to post my thoughts on this issue. Maybe I put a little too much stock in what people on here have to say, but it is frustrating to me to read people that HATE Kubota now because of a single issue.
A little background on me: I set out to purchase a tractor about a year ago knowing virtually nothing about them. I have about 12 acres of land with a 4 acre pasture and a pond that needs to be mowed regularly. I initially set out looking at as many makes and models as I could, but for me cost was a very big factor, and, as simple as it sounds, I have a low clearance garage door which played into the determining factor. I decided to purchase new because used tractors hold their value quite well and I wanted the warranty that goes along with a new tractor.
After the dust had settled, my choices based on cost and reputation were down to a JD 790 (I think they are the 3005 now), JD 3203, and the Kubota L2800/3400.
The JD 3203 was a little more expensive, but I was looking at it as an HST alternative to the 790. My problem with these models was that their FEL's were rated at about 300 lbs less lift capacity than the Kubotas and neither one of them were available with a folding ROPS. Also, test drove them, the cockpit seemed a good bit more cramped and overall they seemed smaller than the Kubotas, and at 6'4", that was important to me.
When comparing the Kubotas, I could basically afford either a 3400 gear, or a 2800 HST. I decided upon the HST because based on where I live I really don't need more horsepower, but the ease of use and my inexperience made the HST very appealing. Also, while it seems to be an "option," I couldn't even find one WITHOUT a folding ROPS.
So, when it came down to it, the Kubota L2800HST offered me greater lift capacity, a roomier cockpit, HST, a quick attach bucket (I want to be able to get forks, grapple, etc), and the folding ROPS so I can park it in the garage - which I think is very important to maintaining the equipment. All of this in a compact tractor that felt much larger than the JD's and NH's that are comparable in price.
So, why am I saying all this? Well, my initial reaction after reading the threads with people complaining about the jerky 3pt hitch was regret for being duped into buying this tractor.
But I thought about it and compared what I got to what the competitors offer and realized I am still much better off for what I could afford. Sure, it isn't ideal, but the 790 owners can have their buttery smooth 3pt hitch, I'll keep my 300 extra lbs of FEL capacity, HST, folding ROPS, and everything else that I love about this tractor. It is a little beast when it comes to working my property and it continues to impress me.
All of that being said, if you can afford a more expensive tractor, than buy one. But for those of us who need to stay in the "Economy" range, take a good look at the differences and I think you will find that Kubota still has more to offer.
I have read a lot of the posts (probably all) about the jerky 3pt hitch on the L2800/L3400, and I wanted to post my thoughts on this issue. Maybe I put a little too much stock in what people on here have to say, but it is frustrating to me to read people that HATE Kubota now because of a single issue.
A little background on me: I set out to purchase a tractor about a year ago knowing virtually nothing about them. I have about 12 acres of land with a 4 acre pasture and a pond that needs to be mowed regularly. I initially set out looking at as many makes and models as I could, but for me cost was a very big factor, and, as simple as it sounds, I have a low clearance garage door which played into the determining factor. I decided to purchase new because used tractors hold their value quite well and I wanted the warranty that goes along with a new tractor.
After the dust had settled, my choices based on cost and reputation were down to a JD 790 (I think they are the 3005 now), JD 3203, and the Kubota L2800/3400.
The JD 3203 was a little more expensive, but I was looking at it as an HST alternative to the 790. My problem with these models was that their FEL's were rated at about 300 lbs less lift capacity than the Kubotas and neither one of them were available with a folding ROPS. Also, test drove them, the cockpit seemed a good bit more cramped and overall they seemed smaller than the Kubotas, and at 6'4", that was important to me.
When comparing the Kubotas, I could basically afford either a 3400 gear, or a 2800 HST. I decided upon the HST because based on where I live I really don't need more horsepower, but the ease of use and my inexperience made the HST very appealing. Also, while it seems to be an "option," I couldn't even find one WITHOUT a folding ROPS.
So, when it came down to it, the Kubota L2800HST offered me greater lift capacity, a roomier cockpit, HST, a quick attach bucket (I want to be able to get forks, grapple, etc), and the folding ROPS so I can park it in the garage - which I think is very important to maintaining the equipment. All of this in a compact tractor that felt much larger than the JD's and NH's that are comparable in price.
So, why am I saying all this? Well, my initial reaction after reading the threads with people complaining about the jerky 3pt hitch was regret for being duped into buying this tractor.
But I thought about it and compared what I got to what the competitors offer and realized I am still much better off for what I could afford. Sure, it isn't ideal, but the 790 owners can have their buttery smooth 3pt hitch, I'll keep my 300 extra lbs of FEL capacity, HST, folding ROPS, and everything else that I love about this tractor. It is a little beast when it comes to working my property and it continues to impress me.
All of that being said, if you can afford a more expensive tractor, than buy one. But for those of us who need to stay in the "Economy" range, take a good look at the differences and I think you will find that Kubota still has more to offer.
