2710 vs. JD4200

[dsulli]

I am about to purchase either a Kubota 2710, or JD 4200. I have the JD 4200 price negotiated to within $500 of the Kubota (Both packages include Loader & Backhoe). I will probably go with JD as 1) The loader lifts more and has better height and reach 2) the 3pt hitch is about 400lbs stronger and 3) The hydraulics are about 25% better. My only concern is reliability. Can anyone tell me if there are REAL (not emotional/subjective) quality or reliability issues with the JD4000 series of tractors? Any other advice on the decision is also welcome .

 

[MReeter]

I looked very hard at the Deere 4200 before we bought our B2710.I liked the larger platform of the 4200 and other features.My main usage of the tractor is mowing,so I liked the lighter weight of the Kubota,and the 4 cylinder engine over the 3 of the Deere.The 2710 engine seemed smoother and quieter.This was back in 99' when both models became available.After owning the 2710 and starting to hear about all the problems the 4000 series was having,I'm glad I went with Kubota.Now,since that time I think Deere has taken great strides to improve upon thier line of compacts.If I were going to use a Hoe and FEL exclusively,I would opt for the heavier machine.This is without a doubt a tough decision,I would take in consideration the Dealerships and the after the sale service that you would expect.I don't think you could go wrong with either machine.I do know that it's easier to add weight to a tractor than it is to lighten one up.Good luck on whatever you decide.

 

[toddler]

dsulli,
I'm with MReeter. I have a B2710 and love it, but if I were planning on using a backhoe, I'd go with the 4200 or even the 4300 Deere, or an L3010. Now that JD has worked the kinks out of the 4200-4700 tractors, I suspect you'd be hard pressed to find a high prevalence of problems with either the kubota or the deere. I went with the 2710 for the exact reasons as MReeter, and also because I liked the higher power to weight ratio. With 20/20 hindsight, power to weight is of little importance except in mowing, and the heavier frame on the JD is a big advantage using a backhoe or pulling something. The JD has a nice pedal system, a better seat, and much as everyone poo-poos my admiration of it, a cup holder/w3tcompact/icons/smile.gif. I still think that's a great place to put your water bottle if you're mowing in the sun for a long time.

If the dealer is good, given you want to use a backhoe, I'd go green. And that's from an orange lover. If I were planning to use a backhoe, I'd get a Kubota L, a NH, or a Deere. My only reason is I was not impressed with the Deere 955 with a backhoe, and I can't imagine my 2710 would be much different. Too little.

What will you be using the tractor for most of the time?
Todd