Kioti CK3510H vs LS XG3135H

[Wellarmedlamb]

So I'm pretty well settled on the Kioti CK3510H TLB.

I stumbled across a post about LS so I started researching. About an hour from me I have an LS dealer(Kioti is 5 minutes).

I called asking about the XG3135H as I felt that was the best comparison to the Kioti. He agreed. The LS is $2k more than the Kioti.

The dealer then says:

"I'm technically a Kioti dealer too so I'm not knocking Kioti but.... The LS is better, stronger and higher quality than any other. We've had them all apart. LS beats them all. Gears, axles, everything is stronger and heavier).".

That's literally a quote. The LS weighs the same as the Kioti, has slightly more total pump flow(in the power steering) and lifts a little less with the FEL but a little more with the 3pt.

Thoughts on the LS being 1 hour and $2k away from the kioti but better enough to be worth it? (PS, I'll trailer it myself over paying the dealer to transport)

Last note the LS has split brakes on the left and HST pedals on the right. I want this. The Kioti does not have split brakes.

The Kioti has position control. I want this as well. The LS appears to not have position control.

 

[dadster4]

You stated that you were looking for a TLB...how does the LS backhoe option compare to the Kioti? It may factor into your decision.

 

[NPurdy1112]

Seems odd that he would define himself as "technically a Kioti dealer". That would throw up a flag to me.

 

[Wellarmedlamb]

Seems odd that he would define himself as "technically a Kioti dealer". That would throw up a flag to me.

Haha exactly what I thought!

 

[Wellarmedlamb]

You stated that you were looking for a TLB...how does the LS backhoe option compare to the Kioti? It may factor into your decision.

Looking at pictures I'd wager that the same company makes both backhoes.

Bucket digging force and all angles are identical. 2817lbs at bucket.

The Kioti has 10" more depth, 12" more reach and 9" more loaded height.


So all things being equal, given the choice... Split brakes or position control. I feel like I'll notice the lack of position control more often.

 

[N2DFire]

The dealer then says:

"I'm technically a Kioti dealer too so I'm not knocking Kioti but.... The LS is better, stronger and higher quality than any other. We've had them all apart. LS beats them all. Gears, axles, everything is stronger and heavier).".

LS actually builds the New Holland Boomer Series tractor, soo how can you be "better than any other" when you are actually part of the "any other" ?? Lol

Now when we bought back in 2014 - I shopped LS, I think you'd be just as happy with an LS as the Kioti (or any other brand / comparable model) and I'm not knocking LS at all, but it sounds like your dealer would be better suited selling used cars if you know what I mean.

Also there is no "technically" either you're a dealer or you're not. You can look for yourself here:
Find a KIOTI Dealer | Kioti Tractors

As for the split brakes vs position control - I have already weighed in on split brakes in your other thread so I won't go into detail again, but rather offer a suggestion (if possible & if you haven't already) Go test drive the LS with split brakes & see how much (or little) difference it makes in turning radius. Also do the same for Kioti if they have a comparable gear model then decide for yourself if it's enough difference to be worth it to you. Also try the test in grass if possible. Gravel & pavement will allow more side slippage plus brake turning on turf really tears up some ground (if that matters in your application).

I've been in your shoes. You get close to the end and you start looking at every little detail & feature because you don't want to end up getting the "wrong" tractor. My opinion, the LS & split brakes is not worth the extra $2k - TO ME, but as G.W. Bush said "It's your money, you paid for it" - so get what you want and you'll be happy with either one. :thumbsup:

 

[ericm979]

Also play with the position control vs regular 3pt. I've barely used the split brakes but I appreciate the position control on the new tractor every time I use it. The regular 3pt control on the old tractor worked fine but position control is easier to deal with. I have some tight areas to work in but make 3- (or more) point turns rather than using the split brakes. One problem with split brakes is that I often drive up or down our steep paved road to get to the work area and for that you want the brake pedals locked together. I have to remember to unlock them each time I start work, and I often forget.

 

[Wellarmedlamb]

I appreciate the input guys. Good point on looking up the dealer...he's not on the list. Haha shady.

We have an old Farmall C which certainly does not have position control, it's fine but not great compared to having it.

I see one​ reason to go LS (split brakes) and multiple reasons not too(shady dealer, driving distance, no position control, more money).

And for all that talk of LS being bigger, heavier, stronger, thicker and any other words he may have used...it's the same form factor and weight as the Kioti.

 

[dadster4]

Just order the Kioti and set your mind at ease :drink: