Is the B3030 enough tractor for me?

jstreet · Nov 25, 2005

After many months of following the great posts on this site, I'm finally nearing a decision on what to buy.
I've narrowed it to a bells-and-whistles B3030 or the plainer but larger L2800 or L3400.
I'm leaning to the B3030 because of its greater creature comforts. My concern is the oft-repeated advice that people seldom wish they'd bought a smaller tractor.
First, my anticipated uses: bush-hogging about two miles of fairly flat woods trails about four widths wide with my 5-foot Bush Hog SQ600; plowing Western New York snow with a 5-foot back blade and a FEL; hauling an old and heavy wagon with about a face cord of firewood; and using the FEL to dress our 500-foot gravel driveway, fill holes and low spots in the lawn, move some rocks, push back brush, and generally rearrange dirt here and there.
I like the maneuverability of the smaller 3030 in tight spots in the woods, and am asking myself why I would need any bigger tractor for the above tasks.
From reading TBN and test-driving both the 3030 and the 2800/3400, I've concluded that the 3030 has real advantages including the nicer 3-point-hitch hydraulics, and a mid-PTO if I ever need one.
I'd appreciate any advice on whether I'm about to buy a tractor that one day I might think is too small, especially in weight. (I've been using an old Ford 8N for 40 years that is nearer the size of the 2800/4400.

Thanks very much for any thoughts or first-hand experience comparing these machines.

ronjhall · Nov 25, 2005

If you have been using a tractor the size of a 8N and like the premium features of a B3030. Why not look at a L3130HST. It has been said here on TBN a L3130HST can be bought for about $100 more than a B2910. Since the B3030 replaced the B2910 that may still be true.

Sully2 · Nov 25, 2005

( If you have been using a tractor the size of a 8N and like the premium features of a B3030. Why not look at a L3130HST. It has been said here on TBN a L3130HST can be bought for about $100 more than a B2910. Since the B3030 replaced the B2910 that may still be true. )

Not here! The L3130 is a LOT HIGHER $$ than the B3030 is.

Sully2 · Nov 25, 2005

I went with the B3030 mainly because of its SIZE and the FEATURES it came with. I compared it to the Grand L30 and since I never intend on using it to plow..etc..etc..I figured I didnt need the extra weight and larger size..AND more $$ for the Grand L30.

One thing I DINT compare is ALTERNATORS..and if I knew it then..Id have had the dealer install the optional alternator on it when I got it..instead of this 15 amp "windmill".. /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif...that comes std. IF your description is ALL you intend on doing..the B3030 will do you good ( you MAY have to load the rear tires for added traction...even with 4WD..?)

I "played with" a 6 ft bushhog a freind has just to see what it would do and didnt have any problems..but his is pretty heavy..so if I ..personally..was buying a BH..Id buy something smaller than a 5 ft model.

jstreet · Nov 25, 2005

My son has a 3130. I've tried it and it's very nice, but I think much bigger than I need and probably less maneuverable in tight spots in the woods. Also, I'd need a wider bush hog to reach out beyond the wheels. I still think my best choices are B3030 vs L2800/3400. But which one?

ronjhall · Nov 25, 2005

Just went out to this SITE. Looks like the price has gone up to about $1500 difference with LA513 FEL. /forums/images/graemlins/blush.gif Still a lot more tractor than a B3030 if the premium features are on the list of wants.
The L28-3400HST are $2000 and $3000 less than the L3130HST.

ronjhall · Nov 25, 2005

I have a 60" JD rotary cutter that I use behind my B2910. I will run it OK. But will bog down in heavy grass. Just let up on the HST pedal and rpms come back. It does require that I have FEL on for counterweight. This can limit maneuverability in tight places. I don't know if FEL would be required on L28-3400 tractors.

srs · Nov 25, 2005

( plowing Western New York snow with a 5-foot back blade and a FEL )
Are you considering the cabbed version of the B3030 due to the severe cold and heavy snows that are in your area? Sure would be nice and toasty inside the cab while playing in the snow. /forums/images/graemlins/cool.gif

jstreet · Nov 25, 2005

No, no cab being considered. Anything will be better than sitting on that cold metal seat of the 8N.

cart99 · Nov 25, 2005

I also got down to L3400 vs. B3030 and one of the most obvious things I noticed was the B3030 has a tighter turning radius and is overall and more manuverable tractor. I run a 5' bush-hog on mine no problem, and do (or plan to do) many of the same things you described. Some recommendations...

1. definitely get the HD alternator put on (about $170)
2. get work lights because FEL makes headlights useless
3. definitely get the rear tires filled
4. consider a tooth bar for the bucket
4. if you are doing brush removal, seriously consider the ATI grapple kit. It is the single most useful thing I had added to my tractor.

Good Luck!!