Need suggestions for choosing mower/small tractor

snodley55 · Jan 1, 2009

Folks,
I need suggestions regarding what USED mower/small tractor to be looking at. There are too many models and too little info on specs available for me to be able to research this thoroughly, so was hoping to pick the brains of the knowledgeable folks here on TBN.
I was thinking Kubota but not stuck on that. I already have a Kubota L3000 tractor so I do not really need anything with a three-point hitch. I am not opposed to it, but I figure that will add significant cost and not get used.
1) looking for diesel
2) need 4 wheel drive
3) do not want anything too large, which would be less maneuverable and just too much weight on the yard if it is a little soft
4) power steering (I am getting older)
5) power mower deck lift would be nice
6) unit that commonly sold with factory-supplied mid mount mower
7) enough power to pull a small boat/ trailer (750 pound total) up a pretty steep concrete drive
8) hydrostatic drive
Thanks for any advice. John S

wallace · Jan 1, 2009

Simplicity Legacy.

BANDAMAN · Jan 1, 2009

My dad just bought a new Kubota GR2110...it appears to have everything you are looking for, although I am not sure what kind of tow capacity it would have for your boat. My best guess is that it would have no problem moving it.

For a little more money, you can step up to a BX model and add more capabilities such as a 3-point hitch and front loader.

I currently have a BX1860, it would fit your needs nicely, I previously had a BX2230. For example, I pick up the front of my boat trailer with the loader and use the tractor to move my 4000 lb boat in and out of my garage. This is on relatively flat garage and driveway though.

As far as used machines, a Kubota BX 1500, 1800, 1830, 2200, 2230, are all good choices.

LBrown59 · Jan 1, 2009

http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk286/lb59/100_2313.jpg

http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk286/lb59/100_2321.jpg

http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk286/lb59/100_2316.jpg

skidoo · Jan 1, 2009

LBrown59 said:
http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk286/lb59/100_2313.jpg

http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk286/lb59/100_2321.jpg

http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk286/lb59/100_2316.jpg

I like pictures too. But, I have seen these ones everywhere. How about some updated ones?

Also, with some post processing, you can improve the contrast, etc. to make your favorite ones look better... Here is an example... Seems like you have a lot of humidity in the air affecting the contrast of pictures.

pintodeluxe · Jan 3, 2009

I have a Bx 2230, and would recommend it highly. It has every feature you mentioned in your wish list. Kubota's entire Bx lineup would fit the bill.
Bx1500 , Bx1800 , Bx1830 , Bx1850 , Bx22 , Bx 2200 , Bx 2230 , Bx2250 ,Bx23 and Bx24 if a backhoe is used often, Bx25 , and Bx2660. The 1500 is the only two cylinder (15 hp). The other models are 3 cylinder deisels and the first two digits in the model number indicate the HP rating.

Good Luck,
Willie

LBrown59 · Jan 3, 2009

skidoo said:
Also, with some post processing, you can improve the contrast, etc. to make your favorite ones look better... *Here is an example .

How did you do that?
I'm not that computer savvy

pintodeluxe said:
I have a Bx 2230, and would recommend it highly. It has every feature you mentioned in your wish list. Kubota's entire Bx lineup would fit the bill.
Bx1500 , Bx1800 , Bx1830 , Bx1850 , Bx22 , Bx 2200 , Bx 2230 , Bx2250 ,Bx23 and Bx24 if a backhoe is used often, Bx25 , and Bx2660. The 1500 is the only two cylinder (15 hp). The other models are 3 cylinder deisels and the first two digits in the model number indicate the HP rating.
I have both 2 and 3 cyl BX Tractors.
No complaints with eithr.

Good Luck,
Willie

Gittyup · Jan 3, 2009

JD 455, but no 4WD. Are you sure you need 4WD? This really reduces the number of tractors, especially in the GT size range. Also JD x729 or X749 will have 4WD. Though these will be hard to find uses due to their relative newness. Other deeres: 4100, 2305, 2325. Maybe a 750 or 755. The other subcuts from Massey, New Holland etc. would also fit the bill.

skidoo · Jan 3, 2009

LBrown59 said:
How did you do that?
I'm not that computer savvy

You would need software to do that. There are many picture organizer/editors available. You may want to try this from Nikon.

Nikon | ViewNX 1.2.2 - Windows

I think it is free. The basic ones like this can help improve an image with just the simple contrast, brightness, and sharpness adjustments. Very simple to do...

RWEST · Jan 3, 2009

A J-D X595 meets all your requirements, if you can find one used, and it probably won't be cheap

. Most guys who have 'em seem to hang onto 'em. I don't know if there are many of the new X7__ series that replaced the 595's on the used lots yet.

I really like mine, although it's probably overkill for my 1.5 acres to mow. It has a 54" deck and the J-D "powerflow" bagger, which really cleans up the clippings and leaves. Cruise control, backup lights, adjustable steering column, storage compartment with 12 volt outlet, etc.., it's like a small 4WD car!!

The 4WD feature is great on the couple sidehills I have when it's damp'ish.

Some reviews:
http://www.********************.com/review/John-Deere/x595.aspx

J-D data:
http://www.deere.com/en_US/ProductCatalog/HO/servlet/ProdCatProduct?pNbr=SKU20474&tM=HO