TC33D v. TC35D v. Kubota L3130

[Backlash]

It seems the more I find out, the more I'm confused. I am preparing to buy a new unit w/ FEL. I have about 5.5 acres, will use initially for some moderate to heavy clearing, general FEL work, and 9" auger. General use will be for bushhogging and boxblading 1/2 mile gravel drive. The prices I have been quoted are as follows:

TC33D HST, SS, w/ 7308 FEL, HD bucket= $17,100.00

TC35D HST, w/ 16LA loader (HD bucket)= $18,700.00
(add $1,000.00 for above w/ SS, 17LA)

Kubota L3130 w/ 723(?) HD bucket, HST= $17,300.00

I have narrowed it down to these choices, but am wondering if I need the TC35D--but it seems to have significantly more capabilities than the TC35D. Are there any differences I need to know about other than power, size, or info in the literature? Would SS be worth it for the added $1k? I am afraid my eyes are getting too big for my needs. I am adding the Kubota in case there are any strong feelings out there that I have'nt considered, but the TC's seem to be my favorites. Again, thanks in advance for your tips.

--I have also posted this on the NH and general Forum--

 

[JATO_RaT]

Ernie, my selection would first favor the L3130 HST, then the TC 35D and lastly the TC33D. I like the Kubota simply because in terms of hydrostatic transmissions I just don't think the other manufactuers measure up. It's not that the one on NH is bad, it's that the one on the Kubotas is so good. The TC 35D over the TC 33D is simply because the loader is far superior to that of the TC 33D. I don't see weight as a factor between the TC 33D and the TC 35D. I take that with only a little consideration. First and foremost you must look at the contact area of the tires. The weight difference may need to be many thousands of pounds heavier before any difference in compaction levels are attained. My choice would simply narrow down to the L3130 and the TC 35D even though the two are in different HP classes. The Kubota in my opinion wins with the HST, diesel engine, 3 pt hitch, ease of loader removal, and information status on the dash. The TC 35D wins in HP, loader specs as far as lift and breakout (not speed), and for some, ergonomics. My .02 cents says look at the L3130 to L3830 HST or the TC 35D, they are the most up to date tractors offering more features. Rat...

 

[icat]

Ernie,
You're the only one who can make the determination. The three tractors are ALL good choices. However, with only 5 acres I think the TC35D might be a bit of an overkill. I'd set the competition up between the TC33 and the L3130. The Kubota has a very small edge in HP, but not enough that you'd notice or miss. The styling of the NH is sharp, might even give it an edge. Turning radius of the Kubota is very tight, but the SS is suppose to be superior.
The first thing that I would do is drive both. Don't depend on anyone to "tell" you what to think - you've got to drive them. Then, if everything is still equal - I'd give the nod to the dealer you like best.
I just went through the same decission myself. My new tractor is being delivered tomorrow! /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif In the end my decission was right for me.