Comparison buying new but confused

[msukegrat]

I am looking at these:

Cub Sx 3100: Really nice but $20K
Cub Ex: Same

Kioti CK 27: Again, really like it. Priced around $14,500

Kubota: L 2800, L3400. $18-$20,000.
-looking at the B series too.

I have 12 acres in MI. Just had 70 treees taken out with all tops remaining. Rolling woods so will want a PTO splitter, carry logs, move snow in the winter (300 ft drive) and move rocks. My wife will want to use it too (me 90%, her 10%). It won't ever get on our lawn so will go Ag tires I think. HST is a must for me. May want a blade in front for snow but will try a winter w/o. Maybe just add a blade to the back?? Kuboto has Zero % financing which makes it very attractive. Cub offer the same but a 3% fee. Kioti has free loader. I can go with any of the above but am leaning to the L-2800 or pay the extra for the 3400. Or, maybe I can go with the B 2920 since it may work better for my wife when she's using? Any help is appreciated. I have the 3 dealers all within 15 miles and seem knowledgable and promote good service.

 

[sksmsllc]

Sounds like a great deal of work ahead -- great for the right tractor! For the prices you've quoted I would seriously consider looking at low hour used with Front End Loader a must for your work. I believe you can get the perfect tractor with Front end Loader and boxblade and brush hog for the price of a new one witout these attachements. For the sieze property and terrain description I would encourage you to look at 4x4 only with Loader and consider New Holland TC 40DA; TC45DA; TC48DA; TC50DA all with 18LA Front End Loader. Should be able to find with less than 500 hours in excellent condition.

Adam

 

[bp fick]

Greeting from a fellow Mitten dweller. Any of those choices are great, but there are too many choices.

The confusion comes, in part, by looking at different machines, different sizes, different everything. Take a breath, and realize that if this is for both of you, and it sounds like it is to some degree, then HST isn't just for you, but likely appreciated for both of you.

Next, zero in a bit on the attachments and less on the somewhat wide size (hp) range you listed. When you've done that, say:

Front end loader. Check
Rear blade Check
Anything else? a box blade, perhaps for leveling a gravel drive?

Then, what is your budget? Let's say you two determine that $18K is plenty enough to spend for the tractor, with tax, with the implements. Don't leave the implements out of the total. A tractor is but an engine without implements.

If you do this, this helps you to focus on the work you want to do, not upon the vast, confusing array of tractor offerings. Setting your budget will then cause you to scratch a few off the "look at seriously" list. Next, which dealer do you like best and why? When you have your budget set, your dealers narrowed down to one or two, the implements determined, then the right tractor starts to come into view. You'll have it narrowed down to just one or two tractors, and that is as it should be. Drive them!!! That too is important. Sometimes, in the end, it is just a "this one is the one feeling" that makes the decision.

 

[timswi]

Greeting from a fellow Mitten dweller. Any of those choices are great, but there are too many choices.

The confusion comes, in part, by looking at different machines, different sizes, different everything. Take a breath, and realize that if this is for both of you, and it sounds like it is to some degree, then HST isn't just for you, but likely appreciated for both of you.

Next, zero in a bit on the attachments and less on the somewhat wide size (hp) range you listed. When you've done that, say:

Front end loader. Check
Rear blade Check
Anything else? a box blade, perhaps for leveling a gravel drive?

Then, what is your budget? Let's say you two determine that $18K is plenty enough to spend for the tractor, with tax, with the implements. Don't leave the implements out of the total. A tractor is but an engine without implements.

If you do this, this helps you to focus on the work you want to do, not upon the vast, confusing array of tractor offerings. Setting your budget will then cause you to scratch a few off the "look at seriously" list. Next, which dealer do you like best and why? When you have your budget set, your dealers narrowed down to one or two, the implements determined, then the right tractor starts to come into view. You'll have it narrowed down to just one or two tractors, and that is as it should be. Drive them!!! That too is important. Sometimes, in the end, it is just a "this one is the one feeling" that makes the decision.

BP nailed it...You'll know it when you drive it. Take your time. A FEL is a MUST.

 

[toolbox5]

i'd stay with the big 3 deere new holland and kubota just my opinion . dealer network and location are things to look at when you need parts and service . my dealership has like 7 stores and the 2 in my area treat me very well any time i stop by or call that's what made my mind up to spend a little more and opt for green . just my 2 cents good luck

 

[msukegrat]

Sounds like a great deal of work ahead -- great for the right tractor! For the prices you've quoted I would seriously consider looking at low hour used with Front End Loader a must for your work. I believe you can get the perfect tractor with Front end Loader and boxblade and brush hog for the price of a new one witout these attachements. For the sieze property and terrain description I would encourage you to look at 4x4 only with Loader and consider New Holland TC 40DA; TC45DA; TC48DA; TC50DA all with 18LA Front End Loader. Should be able to find with less than 500 hours in excellent condition.

Wow, I saw a 10 year old TC 45 DA, 500 hr for $17,000. Thats bigger than I probable need.

 

[sksmsllc]

I would encourage you to look at 4x4 only with Loader and consider New Holland TC 40DA; TC45DA; TC48DA; TC50DA all with 18LA Front End Loader. Should be able to find with less than 500 hours in excellent condition.

Wow, I saw a 10 year old TC 45 DA, 500 hr for $17,000. Thats bigger than I probable need.

That's too much $ but getting close. I believe you can find better price for less hours and 2004 2005 year range. That is a good indication however of why you should consider used with low hours. As you can see the tractor will hold its value for many years if you go with major brand like NH. I'm not convinced that 45hp is bigger than you probably need based on what you stated you will be doing. Removing the tops and rocks you'll need chain and Loader combo as well as Good Hydraulic Lift capacity. I think others with more experience can speak with more authority about the HP needs and limits.

Before I got my tractor I wanted lower HP and size due to lower cost but when an experienced farmer took a look at my needs it was clear I needed more power than I thought. If you have a friend who is experienced and would be willing to look at your property that would help a lot. I actually paid a small fee for my Friend to give me an objective recommendation before spending the money. Money well spent.

Adam

 

[beenthere]

If limited to the three...I'd go Kubota (can't believe I said that ).

Much better backing by a more solid company.

But doesn't mean you couldn't do ok with the other two.

Your call. We can't make your bid or your bet, or spend your money.

 

[Ken45101]

Also think about dealer support, repair parts for the next 10-20 years, etc.

Around here, there is only one Kioti dealer, 60 miles away and he doesn't look like all that strong of a business. OTOH, there are a half dozen Kubota dealers, all looking strong. Will there be repair parts in ten years for Kioti? Looking around here, I wouldn't be sure.

The local Cub Kadet dealer is a Radio Shack store !

Ken

 

[bp fick]

Folks tend to start out looking at tractors, and since there might be 500 models on the market, in 10 major colors, it is simply confusing for many. Understandable. My counsel, such as it is, to think in reverse, as it is more productive to the decision making process.

Again, just saying, start with your personal budget. Then, make a list of chores. Move dirt? move mulch? That's a Front End Loader.

Grade driveway? That's a back blade, or box blade.

Till a garden? That's a tiller, or at least a middle buster/disk/drag.

Push snow? Blow snow? That would be a snow blower/snow blade/FEL

By the time you make this list, you have a much better idea of your work needs and their priorities. By the time you budget for these implements, you know two things. 1.) How much money do we have for the tractor?
2.) How much tractor do we need?

Putting together a plan such as this keeps the focus on the tasks to do and the implements needed to do them, rather than the dizzying array of tractors. Finally, the tractor comes into view. What tractor is needed, within our budget, that will best accomplish this?

Point of fact. I would rather have a small Kubota B or John Deere 2000 series, or Mahindra 15 and have all my implements, than to have a Kubota Grand L sitting there with no money left for FEL and implements. No brainer.
Budget 1/2 the price of the tractor for implements. Sometimes, the total cost of FEL, Blower, Blade, Tiller, Mower, etc equal and can even exceed the cost of the bare tractor.

Sometimes, going to the tractor world's 2nd tier (in terms of popularity and support, not necessarily in terms of quality) gets you more tractor and more implements for the same money. The step there is simply owning the decision to do this. But, there is a reason why a couple of OEM's dominate the market and that is perceived quality, resale, parts and service network. Only you can decide.

Finally, none of this can happen until or unless you have the dealer with whom you want to work, one you can trust for support. There simply is no escaping the reality that SOME level of support is required, if for nothing more than for fluids, parts and possible warranty issues.

 

[HiddenHollow]

Plowing snow with a FEL bucket is a pain in the neck. Go with a blade on the loader or the back. A snow blower would be even better. IMHO

 

[Big Bri]

I am by no means an expert, but i think i would get some thing bigger than an L3400. I keep up with 3 lots the largest being 3 acres and i have a 50hp tractor, and there are times i wish it was bigger (to lift more). In my neck of the woods you see smaller L2800,L3400 tractors on small 2 to 3 acre lots, or on small business lots. For houses over 4 to 5 acres you see more L4400 and like size tractors.
I just think with 12 acres you will want to get your task done and get them done fast. The larger tractor will cut more grass and cut it faster. will dig and move more dirt and do it faster. The larger tractor will get you out of the field faster to get that cold beer or to beat the rain.
I think for the money it's better spent now on the larger tractor than later when you take a loss selling the smaller tractor.
just my 2cents
Good luck

 

[flusher]

Folks tend to start out looking at tractors, and since there might be 500 models on the market, in 10 major colors, it is simply confusing for many. Understandable. My counsel, such as it is, to think in reverse, as it is more productive to the decision making process.

Again, just saying, start with your personal budget. Then, make a list of chores. Move dirt? move mulch? That's a Front End Loader.

Grade driveway? That's a back blade, or box blade.

Till a garden? That's a tiller, or at least a middle buster/disk/drag.

Push snow? Blow snow? That would be a snow blower/snow blade/FEL

By the time you make this list, you have a much better idea of your work needs and their priorities. By the time you budget for these implements, you know two things. 1.) How much money do we have for the tractor?
2.) How much tractor do we need?

Putting together a plan such as this keeps the focus on the tasks to do and the implements needed to do them, rather than the dizzying array of tractors. Finally, the tractor comes into view. What tractor is needed, within our budget, that will best accomplish this?

Point of fact. I would rather have a small Kubota B or John Deere 2000 series, or Mahindra 15 and have all my implements, than to have a Kubota Grand L sitting there with no money left for FEL and implements. No brainer.
Budget 1/2 the price of the tractor for implements. Sometimes, the total cost of FEL, Blower, Blade, Tiller, Mower, etc equal and can even exceed the cost of the bare tractor.

Sometimes, going to the tractor world's 2nd tier (in terms of popularity and support, not necessarily in terms of quality) gets you more tractor and more implements for the same money. The step there is simply owning the decision to do this. But, there is a reason why a couple of OEM's dominate the market and that is perceived quality, resale, parts and service network. Only you can decide.

Finally, none of this can happen until or unless you have the dealer with whom you want to work, one you can trust for support. There simply is no escaping the reality that SOME level of support is required, if for nothing more than for fluids, parts and possible warranty issues.

Yep--you're exactly right--think in reverse and the tractor will eventually appear, clear as day.

 

[magicheater]

I am by no means an expert, but i think i would get some thing bigger than an L3400. I keep up with 3 lots the largest being 3 acres and i have a 50hp tractor, and there are times i wish it was bigger (to lift more). In my neck of the woods you see smaller L2800,L3400 tractors on small 2 to 3 acre lots, or on small business lots. For houses over 4 to 5 acres you see more L4400 and like size tractors.
I just think with 12 acres you will want to get your task done and get them done fast. The larger tractor will cut more grass and cut it faster. will dig and move more dirt and do it faster. The larger tractor will get you out of the field faster to get that cold beer or to beat the rain.
I think for the money it's better spent now on the larger tractor than later when you take a loss selling the smaller tractor.
just my 2cents
Good luck

Whole heartedly agree with this perspective!!!

 

[TripleR]

All very good advice on which I really can't improve. My wife and I recently decided due to our age etc., operating our geared tractors on any kind of regular basis was just getting too uncomfortable, so we went new tractor shopping. We were intent on buying new and going with the 0% financing and leave our money where it was to make money.

As we already have some tractors and one with a cab, we decided to go an open station of about thirty-five to forty horse. Long story short, we bought a 2003 52 HP with a cab with 735 hours as we got the tractor and implements for less than a bare new tractor.

The tractor was bought at the same dealer where it was for sale and had the maintenance records, so I knew it had been well taken care of.

I have bough both new and used; sometimes one way works better than the other.

I own several brands though my preference is for Kubota, but they all make good tractors.

Oftentimes buying a tractor is like building a shed, figure out what you need then go a little bigger.

One thing of which I have no doubt however NEVER buy a tractor without a FEL.

Good luck

 

[jdbnh]

If limited to the three...I'd go Kubota (can't believe I said that ).

Much better backing by a more solid company.

But doesn't mean you couldn't do ok with the other two.

Your call. We can't make your bid or your bet, or spend your money.

why do you thikn kubota has better backing and is a more solid company when deere and new holland have been around much longer, deere and NH's market share is huge comapred to Kubota, there are a lot more NH and deere dealers around, the list can go on and on

 

[Ken45101]

why do you thikn kubota has better backing and is a more solid company when deere and new holland have been around much longer, deere and NH's market share is huge comapred to Kubota, there are a lot more NH and deere dealers around, the list can go on and on

How did Deere and NH get into the discussion? The OP asked Kubota, Kioti or Cub Kadet.

I think Cub is a division of MTD (low end lawn equipment), not the Cub Kadet of decades ago. Kioti has a sparse presence and (IMO) unknown future in the U.S.

Kubota is a major global equipment manufacturer that is stable.

 

[bp fick]

How did Deere and NH get into the discussion? The OP asked Kubota, Kioti or Cub Kadet.

I think Cub is a division of MTD (low end lawn equipment), not the Cub Kadet of decades ago. Kioti has a sparse presence and (IMO) unknown future in the U.S.

Kubota is a major global equipment manufacturer that is stable.

Cub Cadet = Yanmar. A highly respected tractor/engine builder.

 

[Ken45101]

Cub Cadet = Yanmar. A highly respected tractor/engine builder.

There seem to be multiple Cub Cadet brands, only one of which is associated with Yanmar. From the MTD corporate website:

The MTD family of brands includes Cub Cadet, Cub Cadet Commercial, Cub Cadet Yanmar, Troy-Bilt, White Outdoor, Yard-Man, Yard Machines, Bolens, Arnold, GardenWay, MTD Pro and MTD Gold.

Kind of confusing (which doesn't give me high confidence).

Ken

 

[bp fick]

Ken, yes it is confusing to keep up with all the decals and changes in the tractor world, but the Cadets for the past year, at the tractor level, not the lawn mowing level, are Yanmars, same builder the John Deere uses for all their subcut and cut tractors.

Given the OPs tasks, the CC he was referring to was the Yanmar tractor division of MTD. He gave the model numbers of what he was looking at.