Buying Kubota 3901 which tires should I get?

[Raoul Duke]

Hello All - I am new to the forum and this is my first post.

I went to the local Kubota dealer and was pricing a 3901. I wanted the R-1 ag tires but the dealer was trying to convince me that that I should should get the R-4 tires. I'm sure the R-4 tires are ok most of the time but I want to use the tractor to brush hog and skid logs in hilly woods and also to clear snow as well as use a loader to haul soil, bails, wood etc.. I am concerned that the R-4 tires will not give me the traction I need but the dealer said with a 4WD tractor I don't need R-1 tires.

What has been your experience?

Thanks

 

[k0ua]

Most compact tractors are sold with R4 tires.

R4 tires handle heavy loader loads a bit better (stiffer)
R4 tires are more cut and puncture resistant.

R1 tires will perform better in mud and snow. Especially mud.
I would rather bush hog with R4's because of the greater puncture resistance

Both types really suck on ice. Chains are needed on both.

Thousands of CUT owners are satisfied with their R4's
Thousands of CUT owners are satisfied with their R1's
a lesser number are satisfied with their R3's (turfs") But if you just mow mostly and do the other things occasionally then that is what you want.
There are a few paddling around with their R2's (rice and canes) but most of them are in rice paddy's.

 

[s219]

For what you described, R4 tires would be way better. They will be a heck of a lot more durable for loader work and skidding logs. They are called "industrial" tires for a reason! It's what you will find on backhoes and other construction equipment.

R1 tires are primarily for agricultural use when traction in loose/soft soil and mud is the priority for ground-engaging work.

 

[motownbrowne]

To me, they just don't look right with R4s. I wouldn't want to be slipping around pulling logs in the mud with r4s, but generally speaking if it's muddy, you shouldn't be on the tractor. I bet you'd be fine either way. R4s are tougher, R1s have way more pull.

 

[k0ua]

You might talk to this member.

http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/tires/316309-industrials-front-ags-rear.html#post3821846

 

[HEC]

I've had both and I would go with the r-4 . I was very skeptical at first too , not any more . If I only had 2 wd it would be a different story for sure , but that will never happen again.

 

[Chilly807]

I'm happy with my R1's, the only way I'd consider R4's would be if most of my work was on hard surfaces, like gravel or pavement.
One thing though, R1's are pure murder on lawns, especially if the ground is the least bit soft and you're in 4wd.
Most of my uses are the same as what you've listed. You will need chains in winter either way you go, the R1 rims have more clearance for chains.
R4 is better for heavy loader work, better puncture resistance. The 3901 loader isn't particularly strong, similar to my L3400. If you go with R1, be sure to run 35 psi in the fronts as the manual recommends for loader use. Anything less will destroy the tire, don't ask how I know that...

Sean

 

[Raoul Duke]

Thanks for the replies. I'm still kind of on the fence but I think I will get the R4s. Which should be good most of the time and I can add chains if needed.

Speaking of which - where would you buy chains for R4 TIURES?

Thanks again

 

[k0ua]

You can try at these various vendors. And there are many more.

Tractor Tire Chains | Free Shipping | Tire Chains R Us

Tractor Tire Chains - Tractor Snow Chains | GEMPLER'S

Tire Chains For ATV, Snow Blower, Tractor, Truck & SUV | Where to get tire chains? - Tire Chains Required

 

[wmonroe]

Welcome to TBN! The R4 vs R1 tire debate is one of the ongoing things that has no clear winner, it's all personal opinion and personal uses. For me the R1 tires have been great and I wouldn't change them. My tractor is used for everything from field work, to clearing snow (1000' driveway), mowing my grass, carrying stuff around in the loader, and whatever else I come up with. So my opinion and vote is if you were originally wanting the R1 tires then get them, don't let the dealer talk you out of them because they probably have to order a set.