Finally pulling the trigger on my 2520 - 48" box blade OK? Other?

puffyshirt · May 16, 2012

HI all,

FINALLY pulling the trigger on my 2520. I am just getting it with the FEL and BB for now. Dealer has a leftover BB2048 which can save me aboug $300 vs the 60" box blade.

I am going to be working on clearing out about 3 acres of sloped woods and want to cut a few trails. 48" is wide enough (and probably a little better for manuevering around, but I won't believe will quite cover the rear tire tracks.

Thoughts experiences?

Only other options I am adding are some wheel weights and iMatch. Those of you with 2520's offer any last minute suggestions on things you wish you would've added at the time of purchase?

Thanks all!

KennyG · May 16, 2012

I've got a 2320 and I think the 48" would be too narrow on mine. I have a 66inch box blade which is enough to bog the tractor down if I'm not careful, but I really like the way it covers the tracks and lets me get the blade close to things without getting the tractor so close. I just used a single ripper on one side to create some planting beds without getting too close to existing shrubs. Very handy.

I think you'll be happier with the 60".

revitupfaster · May 16, 2012

I have a 2520, and I would suggest you have the dealer weld on a bucket hook or 2 so you can lift things with a chain attached to the hooks. I only have one in the middle, but I've seen as many as 3 on some buckets.

I also had the dealer add a single rear worklight. In retrospect, I probably should have went for 2 rear lights, it wasn't that expensive at the time, and although 1 is OK, 2 would have been better.

In your case, if you are cutting new trails, I would also add the "Turn-Signal light" protectors. Those lights are pretty exposed should you be working amongst overhanging branches and such. I haven't got these on my tractor right now, but I am considering adding them. I think they look kinda' cool as well.

I also added a tool box, which is mounted behind my seat. I don't think the dealers have an option for this, but you could ask. I bought one and installed it myself. There is absolutely no place to carry any small tools with you on these tractors, unless you want to use the "Thermos Bottle" thingy attached to the ROPS where they store the manuals.

REV

C-Range · May 16, 2012

Hi PuffyShirt (that was a great Seinfeld episode),

The 2520 comes pretty well set up right out of the box as a loader tractor. If you think you will be using lots of rear 3pt implements, you might look at the hydraulic kits available. I recommend getting every lighting option offered too. It's not too expensive. Those are the only things that occur to me at the moment.

Pretty much any other attachments you add to the machine comes plug and play from Deere (eg mower, backhoe, etc).

Welcome aboard!

glc24 · May 16, 2012

I think you'll be happier with the 60".

I agree too.
Personally,I have a Woods 65"

Are you planning to cut grass with your new 2520? If you are,it is always best to try and get as much of what you want in the initial purchase. If you're in a cold climate and your tractor will be in a unheated building,try to get your dealer to throw a block heater in the deal.

Greg

rmmi · May 16, 2012

Another vote for the 60" box blade. My 2520 pulls it very good. I would also get your rear tires filled with rim guard also.

kb2520 · May 17, 2012

My box blade is 60" too & I wouldn't want it any smaller, personally. The tractor handles it fine, plus it provides good ballast.

I would also recommend the block heater. If you're anywhere that you'll want to start the tractor when it's real cold, it will help you in the long run. Nothing like starting your diesel tractor in 5 degree air temperature yet the tractor cranks and starts like it's 80.

puffyshirt · May 17, 2012

Wow... all these suggestions and input are great! Thanks much to everyone of you for taking the time to respond. It is much appreciated!

lost in wisconsin · May 17, 2012

I have to agree on the lights, brush guards, hooks and toolbox.

The lights can be done by the dealer or yourself. JD makes it easy with the plug n play style connectors. Same for the brushguards.

Depending on your dealer they may or may not be able to weld on the hooks to your loader. I would go with a min of 2 and place them inline with the loader arms. If they cannot provide the hooks and you do not have access to a welder...Kenny's Hooks are an option also. Ken's Bolt On Grab Hooks (Ken is a fellow member at TBN).

revitupfaster was spot on when he said there was no place to carry any tools on the 2x20 series tractor. I also added an ammo can to the front to carry my chain.

Push hard for the iMatch in the deal. If nothing else maybe you and the dealer can split the cost.

Others have more knowledge on this than I, but if you remove the loader and have the box scraper on the rear with wheel weights...does it require suitcase weight in the front for proper ballast?

Oh yea, and if you go with the auxillary lights, I would recommend the Glare Shrouds offered at Artillian. Glare Shrouds (Chris is another member here).

And finally no worries on the reply, we are good at spending someone elses $$

Congrats on the new tractor. The 2520 will treat you well.

Artesia Aggie · May 17, 2012

Congrats, great tractor. You already mentioned the I-match. That would be #1 for me. Tool box would be nice. I put a sun shade on right away but I don't have many over hanging trees to worry about. The sun shade really makes mowing in the hot sun a lot more comfortable.