Sub compact more Nimble?

[jhendric]

Folks, I presently have a Kubota L4310 which has been a great tractor for my needs. Lately my wife is suggesting that we get a smaller tractor to maneuver around the tighter spaces in our yard. My question is as it relates to getting in and out of tight spots if a sub-compact makes a ton of difference versus my compact??

 

[Rdrcr]

When comparing a Kubota L vs BX? I'd say yes, the BX will be easier to fit into tighter spots compared to your L4310.

For example, my B series didn't have an issue navigating through some trees on my forested property and my L (with the loader attached) couldn't get through the same area. I had to remove one tree in the group so the L can get through...and it is still tight.

Mike

 

[Diggin It]

With the MMM off, I can get through a 4' opening if I'm careful.

Turning radius is where you have to watch front and back with a loader and any 3 point item.

 

[stevem5215]

Of course a sub compact is more nimble. Smaller = easier to maneuver. I have a articulating STeiner 420. It's easy to get around those trees with it. Just depends on your needs. I'm happy with my choices right now. Works for my space.

 

[kenmbz]

i have some super tight (<6') areas to drive or turn through.
I can make it even with the backhoe and FEL attached if I bring them in tight.

 

[Thomas]

You maybe giving up softer ride also being stable.

 

[kenmbz]

I did have to add 2" spacers to each rear wheel since my property is sloped.
And ground clearance is good, but not great.

 

[chim]

Below is a quote from a post I made back in 2019 regarding nimbleness of the three different tractors I had at the time. That post addresses the turning radius, but not how much of a hole is needed to pass the tractor through. It is obvious that my 4240 won't make it into a back yard that has a 4' wide gate without a causing a major disturbance

To present the whole picture, the L4240 needs just under 8' of vertical clearance and with the RFM attached it needs nearly 8' side-to-side to get the 90" deck through. I forget what the outside width of the tractor itself is with the R4's set wide, but think it's around 6'.

"I never really thought much about how tight a tractor might turn until I was mowing with the L4240. I kept getting the impression it was more nimble than my L3200. That didn't seem possible. Perhaps enthusiasm over the new-to-me tractor was influencing my perception. After all, it's so much bigger, right? Time to measure and find out.

I SUSPECTED the tightest turning tractor of mine would be the Ford 1210. Then the L3200 and L4240 would follow in that order. Measuring from the face of the rear tire at 3:00 and 9:00 with the steering to full lock surprised me. The L4240 was 71", the 1210 was 80" and the L3200 was 98".