The only features the Grand L has over the DK is the HST+ and the digital dash display.
The DK is much closer to the Grand L series than it is to the standard L.
I think I agree. I am not sure the DK options (correct me if I am missing something) but the upgrades on the "L" over standard are tilt steering, extending 3 pt lower links, and seat. I am not sure the option on the DK but I believe this would make them "comparable"
Now the HST+ is where I find the Kubota to be a cut above the rest.
This is the way I look at it. The HST+ is amazing. It is hands down worth the extra markup for it if you can budget it. However this depends how you use you tractor. Some guys may not like it or use it I guess. The main tasks I perform with the tractor consist of mowing, tilling, brush hogging and snow plowing. I have done several others but this is what I have spent the most time on.
If you are not familiar or haven't used the HST+ I would say you may not know what your missing so it won't impact you. If your not familiar the HST+ , it has several added options.
1st) There is a hi-low range in addition to your selection of HI / med / low. This hi low can either be switched manually or set up to switch automatically. I rarely use mine if at all. This I believe would be more less used for hills when pulling. I may try it more as time goes on. This extends your 3 driving modes to 6 and can be shifted "on-the-fly"
2nd) the cruise control doesn't just "click mechanically and you have roughly 10 settings. With this lever, you can really dial in infinite variations of speed. When I was tilling unbroken ground, I was able to dial in at .3 MPH. It may not be used all the time but when it is, it's amazing
3rd) "Auto throttle" this is what I use all the time. I would say my tractor is here 90% if the time. You can set your RPM at a minimum, so when you press the treadle peddle it will raises your RPMs as needed. This is valuable in so many ways I can't express them all. ( this post is long enough as it is). This also helps with fuel consumption.
4th) You can set the sensitivity of your Hydro response. This is essentially helpful in two ways. When brush hogging an open area there is no need for the machine to be jerky. I let off the pedal and there is a nice cushioned roll stop. (Exaggerated to express my point). However, when cutting next to a pond or structure and you need it to be snappy, it is. The dial has several settings to adjust the sensitivity. Fabulous when snow plowing as well.
This is taking Hydro to the next level. Again, not for everyone. If never used it won't be missed. If you've had it, it would be hard to go back to anything else.
The electronic dash also let's me know EXACT PTO RPM so I can dial that in instead of just hitting the red hash mark indicator on most other tractors. Nice feature but not really a "must have".
These options are fantastic and can't be added after the fact. So this is where the decision comes to play. If you have a budget which we all do, do you ante up now for more options that can't be added later? Then when money and time prevail, get the rear remotes, fancier air ride seats etc.
Now as TSO said, and trust me, he does his research. I actually think he found the end of the Internet and personal examined the manufactures every inch including unused closets. So I believe the DK would more less have to be compared with the "L" series. However I do think it falls short when throwing in the HST+. So I believe it would now be between the standard and "L", not necessarily a direct comparison. Would this justify $1000, $2000, $5000 difference? Maybe not, but maybe to some.
We buy tractors because they are convenient. So when you have a budget, you buy the conveniences you can. No one needs a back hoe for digging. A $10 shovel WILL do the job. You dont NEED a mower if you own a nice pair of scissors to cut your grass. It's all perspective. I think you get my point "I hope".
Ok, I am done for now. That was just after 1 cup of coffee!!!
