Kubota L285

[keno]

We have been watching this site and enjoy some of the things you say. We are looking for information.
We have 8-1/2 acres, mostly flat, and want to buy a tractor. We have found a 1978 Kubota L285 for $8,500. It has a loader, box scraper, backhoe, but the hour meter is broken and who knows how many hours. We are wondering if that is a good price, or if it is high for that old a machine. It all works. This is in Northern California on the coast. thanks in advance for any replies.

 

[rbargeron]

With backhoe and loader that price is quite reasonable. The L285 is a nice little machine - You will possibly out grow it in a couple of years but it will be fun to use and will not tear up your place as much as a heavier machine might. All of these models had a weak spot in the hour meter cable. It twists off near the end at the engine (makes a fairly sharp bend there) A new cable assembly is not too expensive. These older Kubota models may have faded paint, but they'll still do a ton of work.

 

[neilly2]

Wondering if you ever bought the L285. First, the guy who said it's a nice "little" tractor has me worried. Its a 30 hp 4 cylinder machine, and is a landscape series tractor like his. It will take care of 8 acres no problem. I do own one but that was objective. As for price, if that is in good shape go for it. I beat the living hell out of mine and runs like a dream. I'm getting a little suspicious of the hour meter, but it's still moving. Manual gear box, no plastic, sits high in the seat - its what a real tractor is supposed to be.