Kioti DK35...Good Deal?

[Pozzman]

I have been reading the Kioti and Kubota message boards for quite some time trying to decide which tractor is best. The tractor will be used for brush hogging about 7 acres, eventually I hope to put in a half acre/acre garden garden and an acre of grapes and blueberry bushes which will require some future tilling and digging for fence post.

I have also been looking at used Kubota B series and Kioti LK series and missed a couple of good deals the past few weeks. However, I sometimes wonder if a bigger tractor (> than 30hp) would be better.

I have just come across a 2003 Kioti DK35 that I am going to look at tomorrow. The tractor has 205 hrs, 4wd and shuttle shift. It also includes a 60' finish mower, 72" brush hog and disc for $10,500.

From what I have read, those that own a DK35 are very happy with it. My questions are: 1) is this a good price and 2) is there anything I should specifically inspect for in regard to the tractor?

Any input is greatly appreciated.

 

[Oleozz]

Don't you need a front end loader for the tractor? You didn't mention it having one. In my case I would not own a compact tractor without one.

 

[mattman]

I have one and like mine. What is the general condition?? How about the attachments what kind of shape are they in??

I would do a good check over and test drive, then make an offer. I would try to guage how bad they want to sell. I would try to get it as cheap as possible cause I am a tight wad.

 

[ddrake_pgh]

I have a DK35 and am pretty happy with it. I have a woods front loader not the kioti one. I have a woods backhoe also. I've used it for brush hogging, tilling, excavating, pulling stumps, etc. Just finished up two 12 hour days excavating around a garage.

I could nit pick a couple things, but overall it's a workhorse. I have a 5ft brushhog that is way too small for it. Should have got a 6 or 7 footer. No real problems after 4 years. It was the best $12,000 I've spent.

 

[Pozzman]

I would like to have a FEL but that would probably add $2000 to the cost. Based on my budget I am trying not to to keep it around $9,500 - $10,000, that is why I missed some good buys the past few weeks, over my budget.

In regard to an offer, he was originally asking $11,500, I offered $9,500 conditional on driving it, he countered with $10,500. I figured I'"ll take a look at it and take it from there (only 45 minute drive from where I live). I'll keep you posted.

 

[ToadHill]

I have 900 hours on my 2005 and it has had no major issues. Only issue was a broken seat mount.

 

[Pozzman]

I went and looked/drove the tractor it ran great and was in good shape. Engine was clean, no oil leaks. PTO ran fine it handled the 6 ft brush hog with no problem. Oil on the dip stick at the back by the PTO was very clean.

Issues:
It was hard to get in and out of 4wd and accelerator lever on column was very tight (hard to move), I was wondering if this is normal. However, the foot accelerator was fine.

Also the steering wheel had some play.

I think he'll go as low as $10,000. Any thoughts/input?

 

[ToadHill]

The hand operated accelerator is not a problem. mine did the same thing. In the linkage you will see a point where a pin rides inside a fitting, just take a finger and grease that point, that should take care of the problem.

 

[IslandTractor]

10K plus the cost of a new loader would put you up to about 12500 I'd guess. That is still a decent price for a very good condition reliable 35hp tractor. If I were you I'd also look around for a two or three year old CK30 with loader which I would think would be at or about that price point. Less PTO power but also a great tractor. The concensus on TBN is that just about everyone needs a loader on a CUT so don't leave that out of your budget.

 

[JDL538]

Buy a Bobcat ct 230 or 35 they are giving them away at alot of dealers, same tractor as Kioti.
I have heard of 30s and 35s going for around 10k can't beat those deals. call some Bobcat dealers.