Skid plates on a B3030

[Tarna]

I've posted this on the Buying/Pricing forum but figured I'd cross post it here to get owners responses. I'm in the market for a CUT and have narrowed it down to the Massey 1528 or Kubota 3030 (lots of reading of the forum and archives over the last couple of weeks). We're on 200acres in Eastern Ontario of which most is woodlot (combination of planation pine and natural). Tractor will be used mainly for mowing the 3 acres of yard and doing the 1/2 mile drive in the winter. I do though want to be able to get into the bush for management purposes....thinning for firewood, trail maintanence, etc (ie: no heavy logging planned at this point). I haven't thought to look under the 2 tractors to evaluate the vulnerability of both when going off road and haven't found a lot of discussion concerning skid plates. One big difference in models is 10" clearance on the Massey and 14" on the Kubota. So....any thoughts from owners of a B3030 on whether it's more or less protected to sticks and stones, etc. Have any of you installed skids plates? Do yourself, or dealer installed?

 

[lawn_king]

I have a pin plate on my machine, part of the snowblower subframe that offers some protection. Some additional hose clamps/ties in the correct position would offer additional protection. I dont know of any skid plates offered for the 3030, custom made perhaps?

 

[JOELENAHAN]

I have a B7800 (pretty much the same clearance as the B3030) and I am in the woods a good portion of seat time. So far I have not had any problems with ground clearance. Although I am not aware of any factory or after market skid plates for my tractor, I feel confident that no damage will be done unless owner carelesness is the cause.

 

[Tarna]

thanks Joe and Scott.....I went back and had a better look under the 3030 and see what you mean. Most everything that you might have to worry about is tucked up out of the way or surrounded by the frame itself. The valve stem protection is a nice touch as well.

 

[jusdande]

I have the B3030. The only thing I notice unprotected is the fuel filter. I purchased a great fuel filter guard from a guy here in this forum. who makes them. Simple and effective for a vulnerable oversight from Kubota.

 

[jstreet]

I've had a 3030 for two years+, and the only vulnerability underneath that I've found is the two curved metal shields that protect each end of the steering mechanism. They're only bolted at the front, and I once snagged something going in reverse and folded one shield toward the front. Had to remove it and have a friend with a big vise and hammer pound it back into shape. Hasn't happened again.
I agree with the other post suggesting some additional ties etc. for any hoses or wiring that look exposed underneath.
In any case, watch out for really rough stuff, tree stumps etc. that could make things tippy.