JD 2305 or 2320

[cast_and_blast]

I will probably only be using it for mowing approx. 1 acre, landscaping and snow removal. I demo'd the 2305 and it did a good job mowing but I thought the loader would dig and lift a little better than it did but I don't really have anything to compare it against. I was guessing that with the 2320 you would get a little extra weight, bigger tires and better hydraulics so it would be quite a bit better for loader work. A 2305 would probably suit my needs now but if I wanted to use it on the side to do some lanscaping and snow removal I may regret going with the smaller tractor. Is there a really big difference in performance going from the 2320 to the 2520?

I don't know that a 2320 is going to be much different than a 2305 in terms of "digging". A toothbar on the loader would help either machine.

Landscaping and snow removal "on the side" is a possiblity for any of the machines. As has been written many times in this forum, make sure you are properly insured if you venture into this. Many insurance carriers have their coverage stop once you leave your property and/or if you are using it for "business" or "commercial" uses.

That said, the extra power could be nice. Just need to balance that with the extra cash outlay - that's up to you.

Scott

 

[snoiger01]

I've had my 2305 for about 3 months. While this machine still amazes me, there is a small part of me that wishes I had stepped up to a little larger model. The small size is a big plus since it can get into some pretty tight locations and trailering is very similar to hauling my Yamaha Rhino. If I had stepped up to a larger model I could share implements with friends who have bigger tractors, instead of having to buy them for the small 2305...but isn't there an old saying that "he with the most toys wins"
I use my 2305 primarily for mowing 5 acres and some light FEL work...oh and knocking down fence posts on accident, so I guess with a larger model I'd be more dangerous

 

[Nuru]

I would go with the 2320, as you never know when you might need that extra amount of tractor. I have about 1.25 acre to mow and it is sloped in a lot of areas, and my 4100 will dilled tires does quite fine mowing it. I also have the extra power to dig my upcoming stone patio and moving the stones here and there for the stone patio and a wall of Rocks i am planning to build.

 

[unreconstructed]

I've also been mulling over a 2320 also except with a 54 inch mower. This thread has definitely shed light on the 2304 vs 2320 issue. Thanks for a great
discussion. From my viewpoint the 2320 will be worth the extra cash especially over the time I hope to get to use it.

 

[Hard]

I was looking at both the 2305 and the 2320 a few weeks ago. The dealer pulled both up in front of the dealership side by side. I tested both tractors and bought the 2320. What did it for me was the extra ground clearance (the hydraulic oil filter on the 2305 hangs down very close to the ground and is easily hit or torn off if you do any work on rough ground or in the woods, you can also beat it up when you remove and install the MMM) also, the plastic hydro cooling fan on the 2305 is exposed and could be easily damaged and is very difficult to replace (there is a thread or two regarding this problem here on TBN).

I think if you are primarily mowing, removing snow and doing light FEL, light grading/raking and some tilling the 2305 is the way to go. If you need the ground clearance or just want the ground clearance and not have the exposed filter and plastic fan issue as well as the On Ramp MMM, which is fantastic (so easy to remove and replace) as well as a full cat 1, 3 pt. hitch the 2320 is the way to go. The money difference is not a big issue in the long run.

 

[CAT MAN]

well I know I didnt start this thread but you guys almost made my mind up!! i was gonna get a 2305 but heard about the hydro fan and didnt want to break that so I think im gonna get a 2320 seems to be a good size to horsepower ratio tractor!! thanks even if this wasnt for me... LOL

 

[jdbower]

thanks even if this wasnt for me...

That's the beauty of forums, it's for everyone! I've never liked it when (usually with other forums) I get a PM or an email with questions, most of what I know I've learned because other people were wise enough to ask the question for me

 

[CAT MAN]

yea I love this site lots of good info here dont really have to ask questions because its already on here... Thanks again cant wait to test the 2320 tonight.