L3130 vs L3830-weights vs tire sizes

dannyk · Apr 15, 2003

I was looking at the specs of the L3130 vs the L3830 (HST) and noticed that the tractor weights are almost identical (3305 lbs vs 3340 lbs). Also the lengths are not too much different (115" vs 117.5"). So the main size difference is in the widths (60" vs 67") and this seems to add only 35 lbs! However, the tire sizes are significantly wider on the 3830. This suggests to me that the ground pressure should be significantly less on the 3830 and that the bigger tractor should actually be kinder to the turf! Am I missing something here? I often do! /forums/images/graemlins/crazy.gif

Also, can anybody explain to me the difference between the 3-position and the 4-position joystick control valves for the non-cab tractors? They are not very different in price. What is the advantage of the 4-position valve?

Thanks for responding. The new tractors seem complicated to me. I just own an old PowerKing and a skidsteer.

JATO_RaT · Apr 15, 2003

I think what your seeing here is simply the difference between a 14.9-24 (L3830) and a 12.4-24 (L3130 & L3430) R1 set of tires. I believe the L3830 is using a slightly different rear end/axle, comparable to the L4330 & L4630. This may push the wheelbase further apart. The machines are very closely matched other then tires, 110lbs extra 3 pt. hitch lift on the L3830, slightly slower ground speeds on the L3830, and of course, 39HP vs. 32.1 HP (gross power). These, the L3130 HST and L3830 HST are the very two I am looking at. I recently sold my L48. When I mentioned to a dealer that I am considering the L3130, he said I may be a little underwhelmed with the power of the L3130 ansd suggested I try the L3830. I have yet to drive the L3830 HST but if it is to my liking, it may very well be what I get. The L4330, with its quite a bit larger 4 cylinder engine also carrys a bigger loader which I would love, but find I keep pushing the machine size up and really want to downsize from the L48. The L3130 seems to be the deal as far as NH, JD and Kubota go. The loader is unmatched by either manufactuer and the machine sells at or below many of the comparable models. The jump in price from the L3130 to L3830 is about $2500, pretty steep for just a little bump in specs, but then, I don't plan on doing this again any time soon. Since I will have HST, I figure I will spring for the extra HP since a little gets lost by having the conveniences HST affords. When you go to the R4's, the tires get considerably bigger on the L3830 over the L3130. Rat...

dannyk · Apr 15, 2003

Ah, so with R4s, the L3820 should be a fairly good machine to use with a mid mower as well as having the PTO power for a larger bush hog?

JATO_RaT · Apr 15, 2003

I should think so. It uses the same size R4's as the largest compacts typically do, 17.5/24's on the rear. The PTO is a respectable 30.5 for HST or 32 for the manual transmissions. Rat...

MarkV · Apr 16, 2003

Check and make sure a MMM will work with R4's. There is a clearance issue on some models.

MarkV

dannyk · Apr 16, 2003

Can anyone answer my original question about the 3- vs 4-valve loader joystick? I think it got lost in the discussion about the weight and tire issue.

JATO_RaT · Apr 16, 2003

I think the 4 position means it has a float. I thought I read about it at the tractorsmart.com website or carverequipment.com website. I'm not sure about that though as it only seems to make sense just to have it for those rare moments I use it, like when I'm getting off the tractor and just pop it in float to release the hydraulic pressure lowering the loader. Other then that, I rarely use float, but I'm sure there are others that use it routinely. Rat...

equipman · Apr 16, 2003

MarkV
You are correct, the RC72-38 (72" mid mount mower) is not compatable with the R4 tires. Also remember the mid PTO kit is optional on the new 30 series tractors. It is a cassette style install so it doesn't require a tractor split for installation.
Lewis