Nathan,
Congratulations on your new tractor.
Just for the record, as other people making similiar decisions will find this thread: I think that post about an underpowered
L4330 was as hydrostatic transmission, not a GST like Nathan was considering. I have the
L4330 GST and it is, in no way, underpowered. Furthermore, I would be surprised if an underpowered
L4330 was not a lemon, based on Kubota's track record.
Secondly, the MAXIMUM pulling and pushing power of these geared tractors is directly proportional to their weight, not horsepower. Since the 5030 only weighs a couple of hundred pound more than the 4330, its pulling advantage is not as great as some would think. Granted, if you are working below the traction limit, the higher horsepower would allow you to pull the load FASTER, but how often is that a factor?
Third, hydraulic capacity is 9.4 vs 9.8 gallons/minute- not much difference there.
The extra 5030 horsepower would be a theoretical advantage in bush hogging or rototilling. But so far, I have not been able to make my 6 ft bush hog flinch in weeds or brush, at a tractor speed limited by bouncing around or not.
To anyone considering this choice, they are both fine tractors. For me, the price difference was better invested in 3 remote hydraulic valves, hytraulic top and side links, creeper gears, quick attach loader option, etc.
John
