Comparison John Deere 2305 verse 3720

ZettaDeere · Dec 9, 2011

Hi I'm a newbie here. I've got a JD 425 AWS now but I'm looking to upgrade to something with a FEL and backhoe. For the longest time I was convinced that the model of tractor I wanted was the JD 3720. But just recently I found a JD 2305 that was close by so I went to see it. The owner is a mechanic who works at a local JD dealer and this thing looks brand new with less than 100 hours. Its got a 200CX FEL, a 260 back hoe, 54" mower and some specail hydraulics to allow the mower and FEL to work with just the flip of a valve. He is asking about $15K and is offering a dual stage snow blower for another $2,800.

He is my issue - I'm concerned that the 24HP that the 2305 won't be enough power. I need to dig out a few stumps, cut sod out for patio and side walk, and dig out for footings on a home remodel I'm undertaking. I will also use it to bust up an old driveway, help with tree cutting related chores and snowblowing.

Whatever tractor I buy, I'll be trailering the thing often (nothing longer than 45min though).

Does anyone have experience with the 2305? I like the compactness of it for getting into tight places, but in the end, the 3720 has almost double the HP. For an extra $10 to $12K maybe its worth it to buy a 3720? I have never operated an FEL or back hoe so I don't any experience in regards to HP verse capabilities.

Thoughts?

Thanks

AKfish · Dec 9, 2011

ZettaDeere; Welcome to TBN. There is a considerable difference between the 2 tractor's. Both in frame size, weight and hydraulic capability - ability to do work - as well as the different implements and attachments that are available for each machine.

If possible, you might invest some time looking each machine over and getting a feel for the respective differences.

Hopefully, you will have an opportunity to find one or both models on the lot of a dealership close to home.

AKfish

pdp11 · Dec 9, 2011

Often the difference isn't wether or not you can do a certain task, but how long it will take to do it. If you have a heavier machine with more HP and faster hydraulics, then you will get all of those tasks done faster.

You mentioned some specific one-time tasks that you wish to perform. Honestly, you could rent a machine to accomplish those. The real question is what will the tractor spend most of its time doing?

For me, mowing 3.5 acres, grading a gravel drive and road, spraying, and moving material with the FEL are the most common tasks, with the mowing taking up most of the operating hours.

Gator6x4 · Dec 9, 2011

I have a 2305. I would not plan on doing some of the tasks you have listed. Small stumps, less than six (6) inches yes, larger and you may be able to remove after spending considerable time digging and then use something else to extract the stump from the hole.

It is easy to maneuver. It is great for when the wife says I want a hole here for this bush. Mows good and the front end loader is strong for a small tractor.

If this was going to be my only tractor, used for everything, mowing, backhoe and front end loader I think I would climb the ant hill a little farther. The 3720 is a large tractor. You may look at units between the 2305 and 3720 and ask yourself will this do what I want to do.

ZettaDeere · Dec 9, 2011

Thanks for the repy everyone. I took Gator6X4's advice and went to the dealership today and took a look at the 2000 series. I really like the size of the 2720. At 31HP I think it might be worth it.

The one thing that I found was disappointing though was that the 2720 can not have the back hoe sub-frame on it with the mower deck. So converting between mowing and using the model 46 back hoe seems like it would be a big hassle. Has anyone found a work around?

Again, thanks very much for the help.

JiminGa · Dec 9, 2011

you won't want to mow with the hoe on anyway, and really it's not that big of a job to change, maybe 10 minutes once you get the hang of it. the 2720 is a pretty nice rig, but the 2520 has the same hydraulics with just a few less engine hp, which unless you have hilly property or intend on heavy pto work you won't miss.
good luck in your decision. fwiw, the 2305 will do the tasks you describe, just slower than the bigger machines. I have a Kubota bx25 (comparable to the 2305) and have removed 12 inch stumps with it, slow going, but it got it done. It also dug the 18" deep footings for my shop, and like someone else said has dug a few holes when the wife wanted a bush planted.

Victory Pete · Dec 15, 2011

Hi
I had a 2305 for 4 years, it is a great tractor. 2 months ago I traded it in for a 2320. It is the perfect tractor for me. The 2305 didnt have enough clearance for my liking, I got stuck plowing in snow alot, also stumps and sticks get caught underneath. The 2320 is so much better, ample clearance now. I like the 3 point hitch lever better, it stays where you set the lever. The 2305 was either up or down and you had to stop it where you want it, very inaccurate. Good luck with your purchase.

VP

C-Range · Dec 15, 2011

Wow, I've been around a while and I've never seen anyone trying to decide between a 2305 and a 3720! Thats sort of like comparing a Subaru Baja to an F350!

Since Deere offers an amazing number of graduations (at least 7) between those two tractors, I'd recommend going to their website and configuring some tractors with your desired attachments. See how the cost boils down. That might help. Jumping from the 2000 series to the 3000 series can be a huge cost difference depending on the options.

I've owned the 2305/260 and judging by your work tasks, I'd recommend passing on the 2305, especially for his retail range pricing. You might be satisfied with a 2520 or 2720.

Of course, if the price of the 3720 doesn't flinch your pulse rate, you won't likely regret your purchase of one.

Martian · Dec 15, 2011

I see your considering a 2720 now and not to just advertise for myself but I have a 3120 I am looking to sell. No BH or MMM but has the mid PTO and power beyond so you can just get them. I am willing to make a deal on it though great machine and you have a larger frame size.
http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/private-party-ads/226966-john-deere-3120-only-154-a.html

Either way could you be a little more clear on you purposes? I think you want something to mow and something to do work. I think you would do better with a 3x20 series and a ZTR and then you have the best of both worlds. When I was looking I could have got a 2520 or 2720 (can't remember which model exactly) with a BH for less than I could have got my 3120 but the larger frame size gave me more loader strength and an overall bigger and stronger tractor.

CinderSchnauzer · Dec 15, 2011

Only you can decide what frame size is best for your needs. Keep in mind implements for 3x20 will be more expensive.

Once into a 3x20 the additional HP of a 3720 will be mostly wasted unless major PTO work is contemplated. As for ground engaging - will probably run out of traction before HP, so whether buying new or used evaluate the $$$ difference compared to HP and see if the extra $$$ are justifiable.

With 3x20 the BH and MMM and FEL can all be mounted at the same time. Especially with Turf Tires it is entirely debatable and depends on the quality of your lawn.as to whether mowing with the BH attached works or not. It's not that difficult to remove the BH or FEL for mowing.

The 3x20 gives you a choice of two BH sizes - 375 & 485. Both are more powerful than the 2xxx BH. In addition to actually digging deeper (7.5' or 8.5') the reach of the BH is longer which provides several advantages, not the least of which is not having to move the tractor as often.

As for MTM's 3120 he has the mid PTO and Power Beyond. The PTO especially, is expensive as a dealer add on. With that tractor you would need the 3rd Rear SCV for use of MMM. On a 3x20 the preferred FEL would be the 300CX.

If not in a rush used 447 / 375 /448 / 485 BH's come on the market from time to time, in fact there is one in Private Party ads for $3,500 plus cost of mounting brackets. Woods and & Wallenstein also make aftermarket BH's to fit the 3x20 series.

Martian · Dec 15, 2011

CinderSchnauzer said:
Only you can decide what frame size is best for your needs. Keep in mind implements for 3x20 will be more expensive.

Once into a 3x20 the additional HP of a 3720 will be mostly wasted unless major PTO work is contemplated. As for ground engaging - will probably run out of traction before HP, so whether buying new or used evaluate the $$$ difference compared to HP and see if the extra $$$ are justifiable.

With 3x20 the BH and MMM and FEL can all be mounted at the same time. Especially with Turf Tires it is entirely debatable and depends on the quality of your lawn.as to whether mowing with the BH attached works or not. It's not that difficult to remove the BH or FEL for mowing.

The 3x20 gives you a choice of two BH sizes - 375 & 485. Both are more powerful than the 2xxx BH. In addition to actually digging deeper (7.5' or 8.5') the reach of the BH is longer which provides several advantages, not the least of which is not having to move the tractor as often.

As for MTM's 3120 he has the mid PTO and Power Beyond. The PTO especially, is expensive as a dealer add on. With that tractor you would need the 3rd Rear SCV for use of MMM. On a 3x20 the preferred FEL would be the 300CX.

If not in a rush used 447 / 375 /448 / 485 BH's come on the market from time to time, in fact there is one in Private Party ads for $3,500 plus cost of mounting brackets. Woods and & Wallenstein also make aftermarket BH's to fit the 3x20 series.

Correct me if I'm wrong Cinder but I have never used my power beyond, so I'm not sure. What I understood from the dealer is that it does have a lever operation so it could be used for something like a MMM but could be hooked up to a BH as well. Of course for a little more you could have the right set up and get another remote. As for my loader it is the 300X, not CX. I didn't plan on taking it on and off much and this one was on the dealers lot so I jumped on it. And there is a 485 BH for sale here:
http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/private-party-ads/226502-john-deere-485-backhoe.html

I've had mine for a couple years now and love it. I just bought more land at my cottage and would like a larger machine. I have a 5410(80HP) and I found myself using the 3120 a lot just because of the maneuverability over it. I just need to keep the 5410 at the farm and another machine for up north so 3120 must go. Willing to make a deal if your interested - I don't want to shove it down your throat though. I understand the "new tractor" appeal:thumbsup:

ZettaDeere · Dec 15, 2011

I want to thank everyone for thier detailed replies. I've been really impressed by the responses and all of the ideas to consider.

After much deliberation about the frame size, my budget, and what I'm going to use it for I pulled the trigger and bought the 2305. I'm going to pick it up this weekend. I'm so darn excitied I feel like a kid - I can't wait to learn to use the backhoe.

In the end, it might be too small, but with my inexperience I think its a good place to start.

Now I have tons more questions.... perhaps the first ones are about safety. I know people can kill themselves on tractors. Anyone have advice on good sources of what to do and what not to do? and how to prevent damage to the tractor, FEL, and BH?

Thanks again,

ZettaDeere

CinderSchnauzer · Dec 15, 2011

MartianTractorMan said:
Correct me if I'm wrong Cinder but I have never used my power beyond, so I'm not sure. What I understood from the dealer is that it does have a lever operation so it could be used for something like a MMM but could be hooked up to a BH as well.

From your description (lever operation - I assume - right fender beside 3pth lever) I'd suggest you actually have the 3rd Rear SCV and not Power Beyond. AFAIK there are no control valves on the factory JD Power Beyond. It is for powering implements that have their own control valves i.e. a BackHoe or Log Splitter.

It is possible to run a BackHoe using the 3rd Rear SCV, however, the lever tends to be "self centering" for want of a better description. To ensure a continuous flow the valve must be "held open" with a bungee cord or something. So yes it can be done - but not an elegant solution.

As far as your 3120, if someone, for example the OP, wanted to add PB the kit is available from JD for $300 + or- (have not checked price lately) DIY installation is more awkward than difficult and requires some split pipe wrench.

Obviously, I'm biased towards the 3x20 series, but if the OP has mentally worked himself up to a 2720, unless size is critical, then he would do himself a favor to take a real close look at the 3x20 series.

Martian · Dec 15, 2011

ZettaDeere said:
I want to thank everyone for thier detailed replies. I've been really impressed by the responses and all of the ideas to consider.

After much deliberation about the frame size, my budget, and what I'm going to use it for I pulled the trigger and bought the 2305. I'm going to pick it up this weekend. I'm so darn excitied I feel like a kid - I can't wait to learn to use the backhoe.

In the end, it might be too small, but with my inexperience I think its a good place to start.

Now I have tons more questions.... perhaps the first ones are about safety. I know people can kill themselves on tractors. Anyone have advice on good sources of what to do and what not to do? and how to prevent damage to the tractor, FEL, and BH?

Thanks again,

ZettaDeere

Congrats are in order. Post pics when she arrives!!

2305 will be a good start.

Safety. That's a big one. First I cant stress enough to put your seatbelt on. As far as what is to much for your tractor that can only be learned from experience. Start out with little projects, moving a little dirt mound, digging a trench. Get a feel before you do anything big. And more than anything go slow on it. There's no hurry. It will only lead to a poorer job quality, equipment damage, and injury.

Best of luck!

Martian · Dec 15, 2011

CinderSchnauzer said:
From your description (lever operation - I assume - right fender beside 3pth lever) I'd suggest you actually have the 3rd Rear SCV and not Power Beyond. AFAIK there are no control valves on the factory JD Power Beyond. It is for powering implements that have their own control valves i.e. a BackHoe or Log Splitter.

It is possible to run a BackHoe using the 3rd Rear SCV, however, the lever tends to be "self centering" for want of a better description. To ensure a continuous flow the valve must be "held open" with a bungee cord or something. So yes it can be done - but not an elegant solution.

As far as your 3120, if someone, for example the OP, wanted to add PB the kit is available from JD for $300 + or- (have not checked price lately) DIY installation is more awkward than difficult and requires some split pipe wrench.

Obviously, I'm biased towards the 3x20 series, but if the OP has mentally worked himself up to a 2720, unless size is critical, then he would do himself a favor to take a real close look at the 3x20 series.

This is what I thought. I hadn't used it on my 3120 because all my attachments that require a remote are better suited for my 5410. So I just hook it up.

tillerterry · Dec 16, 2011

ZettaDeere said:
Hi I'm a newbie here. I've got a JD 425 AWS now but I'm looking to upgrade to something with a FEL and backhoe. For the longest time I was convinced that the model of tractor I wanted was the JD 3720. But just recently I found a JD 2305 that was close by so I went to see it. The owner is a mechanic who works at a local JD dealer and this thing looks brand new with less than 100 hours. Its got a 200CX FEL, a 260 back hoe, 54" mower and some specail hydraulics to allow the mower and FEL to work with just the flip of a valve. He is asking about $15K and is offering a dual stage snow blower for another $2,800.

He is my issue - I'm concerned that the 24HP that the 2305 won't be enough power. I need to dig out a few stumps, cut sod out for patio and side walk, and dig out for footings on a home remodel I'm undertaking. I will also use it to bust up an old driveway, help with tree cutting related chores and snowblowing.

Whatever tractor I buy, I'll be trailering the thing often (nothing longer than 45min though).

Does anyone have experience with the 2305? I like the compactness of it for getting into tight places, but in the end, the 3720 has almost double the HP. For an extra $10 to $12K maybe its worth it to buy a 3720? I have never operated an FEL or back hoe so I don't any experience in regards to HP verse capabilities.

Thoughts?

Thanks

hey i am new on this site to. But I can tell you i do own a 2305 with front loader and backhoe + garden tiller and yard box, and finish mower. this machine is the greatist. I have tilled over 100 gardens in the last yr. or so. I have plenty of power to do what ever. I have 4 wheel drive with locking rear end. I use this tractor for land scaping, hauling wood, you name me and this tractor can do it I truly love this little fellow. send me and e-mail at tillerterry2305@aol.com my computer has trouble opening messages from this site tks terry

Bob77064 · Dec 16, 2011

Zetta, congrats on your new tractor.

JiminGa · Dec 23, 2011

congrats Zetta, you'll love it. Take it slow, don't get in a hurry. and pay attention to what the whole tractor is doing, not just the hoe or loader, you'll quickly get a feel for what is going on and how far you can push it.

dixstir · Dec 30, 2011

hope you enjoy your 2305 -I had a 2210 it was used and the problens started the owner before me busted the rear pto the jd dealer took it back after some bad words he gave me a full return and thats when we got the 2305 I realy like it I would do the same agin it has 162 hours works perfect I am happy with the size . so pops is happy just like a big kid ha ha I will be 71 in a week. a few attachments tiller -rear- blate -3 point blower- landscape rake- rear digger- cab -mower -loader 'wife says enough'