new 3616 or the 1538

[SedonaDave]

So Dealer very far away....On phone and emails says there nearly the same tractor?

Anyone see one up close...I know the tier 4 is the largest change....but anything else?

I think I will stay around the 40 hp range a bit of overkill but more than enough to run and due what I want...

 

[MtnViewRanch]

Look at the size dimensions and weight. At a glance they look some what different. Overall capabilities close to the same. The 3616 looks (appearance) a lot better to me, I do not like the looks of the 1538 at all. I would think that the 3616 would be several thousand $ less also.

Good luck with your decision. :thumbsup:

 

[oldpilgrim]

3616 proven technology, less money

1538 new unproven but probably ok technology, more money.

Very similar tractors, one is 5k more than the other? I know which I'd get.

 

[Sysop]

1538 makes more power (38.7) at less (RPM 2400 RPM) from a larger motor (4cyl) versus the 36.2HP created at 2600RPM by the 3cyl in the 3616. Running at a lower RPM should reduce the amount of noise created. The 1538 also is about 700 pounds heavier and that would help it excel at dirt work (having to purchase weight to add to a tractor can cost as much as a dollar per pound). The 4cyl motor should provide an increase in main bearing contact area reducing internal loads and wear and more cylinders firing per rotation can provide a smoother overall operation.

The 1538 motor is the same motor used in the premium 35 series tractors and can put out up to 50HP. From my understanding it is limited by the programming in the engine control module. That likely means there are a lot more things that could possibly go wrong.

In a perfect world, I think the 1538 is hands down the better tractor and the increased costs are justified, but only hours on the clock will tell if that is the case.

 

[eflyersteve]

I have a new 1533 which is probably more comparable, HP wise, to the 3616. I love mine. Still made my mitsubishi just as the 3016 and 3616 were and with the new 4 cylinder engines are, in my opinion, quieter and smoother. There are no DPF filters or extra tanks for DEF - they achieve tier 4 without any of that stuff. I think it was speculated that the engines in the 1500 series are really de-tuned 46hp models. Not sure about that, but I have been very happy with mine. More power than you can use. I wish the loader was a little faster, but I have time and generally do most of my work at just above idle anyway.

Price wise, I was just a hair over $24k out the door with 18ft trailer with brakes, 5ft box blade and 5ft rough cutter.

 

[SedonaDave]

Thanks for the input......Dragging my feet as I don't want it sitting outside....Feel that all that will be left is the new tier 4 versions?...Wish dealer was closer to me...

 

[twoodard04]

These ones don't have the DPF remember. No regen to worry about. I'm looking at 1538 myself. Everything looks good as in is big enough but not to big for my needs.