We have been using motor oil in our 544k industrial loader's hydraulic system since it was new and it has 10000 hours now. No problems so far.
i think it only breaks down at 100,000 hours...
just kidding
how often do you change the hydraulic filter?
now they apparently have a smaller micron rating and using a motor oil filter would not be the best.
i think a lot depends upon the environment. A clean warehouse or living outside could make a difference.
I've owned Kubota and Massey tractors and JD lawn equipment.
I found them all dependable
best thing you can do with any tractor and implements is get yourself a good Dewalt cordless grease gun so you will never
regret keeping up with your greasing.
I'm also a big believer in fuel supplements to keep the injectors clean.
at one point got up to four tractors at one time. It was SO nice not having to fight with pto connectors.
one tractor for mowing. One for field work. One you can take over the lawn with turf tires.
Sure more means more maintenance but most folks who have tractors are mechanically minded to some degree and
maintenance isn't hard at all.
If I were Italian, I'd probably want a Lamborghini tractor.
If I were German, it would be a Fendt.
being a hobby tractor user here in PA, would choose between Deere, Kubota and Massey.
I know there are half a dozen other very good brands out there, but these three seem to be the most
highly engineered and thought out.
I think Kioti and LS are right up there in quality; trick is having a dealer anywhere near you.