Why no L4400HST?

[Bob_Young]

Seems like it would be popular. The L3400HST and L2800HST are big favorites. Wonder what it would take to get Kubota to consider this?

I suppose an L4400HST would badly erode sales of the 40+ HP HST Grand L's. With the L4400's high power to weight ratio, an L4400HST would be one agile tractor.

Even though I'd keep the L4300 for the ground engagement work, I'd work overtime to justify an L4400HST. It would be just the thing for a 6' tiller or a 6' snowblower. Maybe once the L4x30's are gone we'll see one.

Just a thought.
Bob

 

[art]

I have to agree with the fact that they would sell and I don't think that it would hurt the sales on the forty series at all. I feel that it would be a good value for many people looking for a practical tractor.

 

[Z-Michigan]

Sounds like a great idea to me! And the L40's are so fancy (and expensive) that I don't think an HST L4400 would threaten them too much.

While they're at it, maybe they could have a quick-attach option on the FEL.

 

[art]

We've been selling the ATI Q-tach's for years for the Kubotas as well as the other make tractors and they fit the 4400. There are amany attachments out there for these tractors if you look. We were putting the loader control valves on the fenders for years if the customer wanted it. We just used the one for the cab, with some of the larger tractors we'd use a valve from one make and the loader from another that the customer wanted.

 

[N80]

It just doesn't seem in keeping with the L4400's niche. I think it would add to the price significantly, lower pto hp and compete with the Grand L's. I also think that in general the type of buyer looking for HST is looking for fancier stuff than the L4400 has to offer. By the time you do all that you pretty much have a 3940 without the benefit of higher FEL and 3pt hitch ratings.

I think the L4400 has a limited appeal in the CUT market. It is for low budgets that need almost Utility level hp and are willing to accept virtually zero frills and modest hydraulic capacities. I think it also appeals to those who want a simple tried and tested model that will require little maintenance.

I think a majority of CUT buyers with around $18,000 look at the L4400 and then buy a less powerful but fancier model.

At least for me, an L4400HST would have had no appeal....primarily because the gear model already stretched my budget to the max.