Comparison Kubota L3901 v. L4701

mason156 · Dec 27, 2015

I am wondering how substantial the real-world difference is between these two tractors assuming HST and 4WD.

I know that the L4701 has a different engine with another cylinder, but I am wondering how much of a difference that makes in terms of what the tractor can actually do.

Thanks,

Steve

TripleR · Dec 27, 2015

As far as work done, it won't be a great difference, just take more time as the 4701 will handle heavier 3PH equipment and has significantly more PTO power. The 4701 is wider and longer, so in hills it will be more stable and should have an overall smoother ride.

The 4701 also has a an independent PTO with PTO brake, the other live with built in over running clutch.

The 4701 has left foot breaking making it easier to use independent brakes and HST together for those who need it as it no longer has the unneeded foot clutch, in my opinion, on the other models. It also comes standard with telescoping stabilizer bars and the HST is hydraulic servo controlled making HST pedal feel easier, more like a Grand L.

Many will be happy with the 3901 especially if finances are a consideration, my preference would be the 4701.

jenkinsph · Dec 27, 2015

Without starting a war about the abilities of these two tractors I would say these are different sized tractors. The 4701 can lift more, pull harder and handle larger implements than the 3901. The first thing I would ask is if you have any implements already? That could make a difference. What size implements do you plan on using? It is a matter of scale really, you need to pick the size that works best for you and your budget.

motownbrowne · Dec 27, 2015

The difference is quite large. The 4701 is a full frame size larger than the 3901. You get bigger tires, more weight, more 3 point lift capacity, more loader lift capacity, and more horsepower. I compared the predecessors to these models 2 years ago when I was in the new tractor market. The 3800 probably would have had enough HP to do everything I wanted to do, but the loader lift capacity and the 3 point lift capacity were not that impressive to me. I actually ended up with the MX4700, which has now become the MX4800. The difference between the 4701 and the MX isn"t as dramatic as between the two L models we"re talking about. The MX is a little heavier and a touch longer. My price quotes actually showed the MX being a few thousand cheaper than the L, so for me it was a no brainer. I'd certainly recommend checking out the MX 4800 while you're comparing.

s219 · Dec 27, 2015

Agree with everyone else -- the 4701 is a much bigger tractor. Notable difference in size. The engine/HP difference is minor compared to the size difference.

mason156 · Dec 29, 2015

Thanks to all for the input. Here's how this all started. I had kind of mentally settled in on the 3901 and then kept hearing the "buy one size bigger than you think you need" advice, which made me look at the 4701. Now my sights have kind of drifted to the L4701 although my budget will have to follow. Ouch. If I am looking at the L4701 I think it only makes sense to also look at the mx4800.

jenkinsph · Dec 29, 2015

mason156 said:
Thanks to all for the input. Here's how this all started. I had kind of mentally settled in on the 3901 and then kept hearing the "buy one size bigger than you think you need" advice, which made me look at the 4701. Now my sights have kind of drifted to the L4701 although my budget will have to follow. Ouch. If I am looking at the L4701 I think it only makes sense to also look at the mx4800.

What size depends on what you want to do with a tractor. We can only guess without more information. You can move up and down in size all day long, I would recommend you figure out what implements you want to use and buy a tractor suited to these needs.

mx1alex · Dec 29, 2015

When I was shopping around for a tractor I was looking at 45hp range but found a really good deal on a L3940 I couldn't pass up. I'm still really happy with my tractor but when I brought it home it seems like it shrunk. There's definitely merit to the "buy bigger than what you think you need" thought process.

RollingsFarms · Dec 29, 2015

mx1alex said:
When I was shopping around for a tractor I was looking at 45hp range but found a really good deal on a L3940 I couldn't pass up. I'm still really happy with my tractor but when I brought it home it seems like it shrunk. There's definitely merit to the "buy bigger than what you think you need" thought process.

I know exactly what you mean. They all look bigger on the lot but as soon as you get them home to your property you soon find out "this isn't as big as I thought it would be".

TripleR · Dec 29, 2015

Really good points, I went out after much research to buy a 30-35 HP. We came across a low hour L5030HSTC that my wife fell in love with. I told her, "no way, that's too big". It was a Sunday, I thought about it over night, tried it out the next day and bought it. We now refer to its replacement an L5740HSTC as "The Little Kubota" as we also have an M8540HDC.