GL4630 vs JD4320

[Dharma Farms]

I am finalizing the deal on a new GL4630 with LA853 FEL, mid-pto, remote hydraulics, and turf tires. I've decided to go without a cab as I will be on/off the tractor a lot while I do pasture, woodlot, and farmyard work. My friend is a JD salesman, and he's trying to convince me to go with a JD4320 instead for 2 reasons: LoadMatch, which gives more pulling power under load with less chance of stalling and the JD turbocharged diesel engine which he says gives more torque and power. I've compared the specs and reviews and am definitely leaning towards the Kubota, but I'd like to hear your opinions. The GL4630 price is $34,000CDN and the JD is about $2-$3000 more. Thanks in advance for your comments!

 

[wolc123]

I am suprised at that price difference especially if the JD guy is your buddy. To me it looks like the Kubota, no contest. Does it have a quick attach bucket standard like the JD has? This is a great feature if your primary task is mowing as it is a lot faster to remove the bucket and that gives you almost the same visibility as removing the whole loader. The salesman will tell you that removing the whole loader is very easy but it is not unless you have experience and real level ground. Removing and attaching the bucket is a snap on the JD even for a novice. Also, whichever one you choose, you might want to consider R4 tires if you will spend much time in the barnyard or woodlot. They are almost as good on lawns as the turf tires and quite a bit better in most other places. When I bought my JD 4120 last fall it was about $500 US less than the equivalent Kubota GL hense my suprise at your prices. I am real happy with it, no problems after around 100 hours of hard use. I know the Kubota is a great machine also, good luck and I am sure you will be happy with either one.

 

[bam747]

If you live at significant altitude, turbo motors have a distinct advantage to naturally aspirated motors. General rule of thumb is that naturally aspirated motors loose 3% per 1000 feet (304.8 meter) of altitude. Turbo charged motors do not loose that power.

At 6000 ft, the 40 PTO HP rated JD 4320 with eHydro is still putting out 40 HP. The 38 PTO HP Kubota GL4630 with HST will only be able to put out 31.2 HP.

Technically, the 35 PTO HP rated JD 4120 (cheaper than the 4320) actually produces the same net HP at 6000' as the GL 5030 (42.5 PTO HP - 18% = 34.9 PTO HP).

Don't get me wrong, I am impressed with the Kubota Grand L tractors. It's just that at altitude, turbos let you keep the HP you pay for.

 

[Dharma Farms]

Gentlemen, thank you for your responses. I've gone with the Kubota 4630 and I'll keep you posted as I use it. BTW, I bought a new 5 ft. flail mower from the UFA in Leduc, Alberta, Canada for $800 CDN (the 6 ft mower is $999 CDN). It has a 60HP gear box and shear pin vs. slip clutch, which is a compromise, but then it is $1400 less than other comparable mowers in the area. I've tried it on my rough pasture, and it mows great. Even if the mower explodes after 2-3 years, it is a VG buy. Again, I'll keep you posted!