Your thoughts on the Kubota B2650

[jodebg]

Just started looking at the Kubota B2650 and have a couple of questions.

They are offering a clutch-less HST on this model. Wondering what the
pros and cons are by going clutch-less?

Also, the brake pedals are now mounted on the left side. Wondering
how this will affect the operation?

Looks as if it is outfitted with Tier-4, as well.

Any opinions on this model overall? Worth considering as an upgrade
to my B7800?

 

[s219]

It's not Tier 4 Final, it's Tier 4 Interim, same as most tractors in that class have been for 5+ years.

Brake pedals on the left are an improvement if you ask me. You can finally use the split brakes for steering without being a contortionist.

I don't think the lack of clutch is of much consequence. On previous models, it was only really needed to engage PTO. I believe they are using a different arrangement now on the newer models without a clutch, so it's not so important anymore.

 

[drussell]

I just purchased a new B2650 a month ago and so far I am very pleased. I have about 40 hours on it and I have used it to mow with my 7 foot RFM, I have done my ditches with my six foot John Deere flail mower trailer model and have worked my wife's horse arena with a seven foot arena Vator and it has done very well. I have loaded turf tires which is necessary to get the traction for ground engagement. I added rear hydraulics and a third function for the loader and put on a bh77 back hoe as well . The fluid filled tires also add around 650 extra pounds which adds stability for the backhoe which the tractor handles very nicely The B 3350 is tier 4 with DPF.the B 2650 is below the 26 horse requirement for the DPF( deisel particulate filters ), that is why I chose it. it is rated at 26 horsepower at 2500 rpm. It is the same engine that was in the b-2920 which was rated at 29 horsepower at 2800 rpm, go figure. it behaves more like a 30 horsepower tractor then a 25 horsepower tractor. if you have any questions ask and if I can I will help.
Doc Russell

 

[drussell]

I should add that I thought I would miss the clutch but I do not, I was worried about the PTO engagement but with the tractor at idle and easing in the PTO lever it is a very soft and gentle engagement
Doc Russell

 

[PHPaul]

I just did the 50 hour service on my B2650HSDC.

I upgraded from an '88 John Deere 750 which was an 8 speed (4x2) manual trans.

I was more than a bit apprehensive about going to a hydro as I do a fair bit of work with ground-engaging equipment and I wasn't sure if it would be rugged enough.

After a bit over 3 months working with the tractor, I couldn't be happier. It's done everything I've asked of it with ease, including really working a 5 and a half foot box blade, running a Landpride RCR1860 (5 foot) rotary mower, and peeling up about a quarter-acre of sod with the bucket. Never a whimper from the hydro trans. Plenty of traction with the loaded Ag tires.

I'm not entirely sure how the PTO works (I should probably look it up) but the only time I find it necessary to idle way down is starting the big mower. Everything else, including a 6 foot finish mower, I can ease the lever into position and start the implement without any thrashing around.

Considering what the hydro has done for me in terms of mowing and loader work, I'd never go back to a gear trans.

I too was concerned with having the brakes where I'm used to having a clutch pedal, but it came quite naturally. The only problem I have (and it appears to be a common one) is remembering to take the dang things off after I set them for some reason.

 

[jodebg]

Does this model come with any Tier 4 equipment?

Don't know what Tier 4 interim is?

I guess the question is, is the engine any more complicated and more expensive to service
than the older Kubota engines?

 

[oldballs]

Speaking in generalities, I've looked at the B2650 compared it to my B2620 and found it to be just a tad bigger in frame, weight and ability. If I was to buy another tractor, I'd be looking at an L series with a real jump in all the categories. But an L series could be too big for your chores and also be more expensive. I know the L series would be too much tractor for me, but really wish that I needed one.
Cheers,
Mike

 

[Tompet]

If you are considering an upgrade for some nicer features maybe it's worthwhile to consider (about time they moved the brakes). If you are thinking an upgrade in real world capabilities and power compared to your 7800, i would suggest broadening your overview first before deciding.

Like oldballs wrote, looking at the L's for some comparisons would be worth it. Even with the new L2501, while not a step up in rated hp or pto hp, it would be a step up in some areas of frame and weight. But, maybe not in the bells and whistles of the deluxe B2650 model.

Enjoy contemplating getting a new tractor!