Buying Advice Branson Vs. Massey

[Zork]

When I was shopping I noticed the trans-axle assembly area of my Branson 3520 MUCH larger than other brands with larger horsepowers, so I figured for the $$$'s and Hp, in this area the Bransons are better built.

 

[Reg]

Massey 1635 (35.7hp) = 3175 lbs

Branson 3510i (35hp) = 3760 lbs

As I said, mine is a tough little beast.
{slightly heavier as the "Large frame" version}

PART of "tough" is in the mass of the frame and castings.
I don't believe it is "useless fat" in the Branson/Century/Zetor Kukje tractors.
I would have some concern with 600 or so pounds of "missing" frame and castings mass.
By the time I add the loader at around 1300 lbs and 1100 lbs of RimGuard mine is just about 6500 lbs with my fat butt on it (-:

 

[FF117]

When I was shopping last year I looked at Massey and Branson. I ended up with Branson mainly because it was $5000 cheaper and the dealer was closer, but here's my 2 cents.

The Massey has a more refined operator station and has the option of a power shuttle transmission. the Branson has a larger operator station and the whole tractor just felt bigger to me. Things might have changed on the new Branson 20R series, so be sure to take a look at those. They are both good tractors and I don't think you can go wrong with either one, but you should get comparable quotes and drive each one before buying. Don't forget to factor in the dealer proximity and reputation. Let us know what you decide.