I traded my 3 year old B7500 for this tractor because I wanted something bigger particularly in the 34 to 36 hp range. The 3430 has 35.1 hp.

After 4 months of shopping here are my comparisons / opinions of other tractors in the same class as the 3430. All tractors I compared had hydro transmission, 4wd and comparable fel.

John Deere 3320 - negatives: 32.5 hp, 400 lbs lighter, 3pth lifts 450 lbs less, fel (300cx) lifts 260lbs less and it costs $1000 more than the 3430.
positives: Loadmatch feature, nice looking.
The Deere was the only other tractor I really considered buying but the HP and the price didn't add up in the end.

New Holland TC35DA - negatives: 3pth lifts 600lbs less. I know the shape of the front end is to make work more viewable but I find it goofy looking. The curves and bug eye headlights just didn't appeal to me.
positives: swiveling seat, hood gives you access to entire engine (no side panals). Price was $200 less the 3430.

Kioti - any model above 30 HP doesn't offer hydro tranny. I didn't even consider Kioti for that reason. Also, the dealer in my area didn't have a mechanic and had only been in business for a year.

Mihindra 3510 HST - negatives: 3pth lifts 600lbs less, fel (ML108H) lifts 700lbs less. Dealer had no mechanic and showed lack of support in my area.

Case DX35 - negatives: Basically the same machine as the New Holland with different looks. The throttle switch on the right side has to be one of the cheesiest ways to turn up an idle on any tractor I looked at. It looks like it will break or wear out easily. (JMO)

There are some small things I'd like to see on the Grand L series - The Intellipad has indicators for almost everything except a 4wd lamp. You have to look at the lever down behind your feet to check it. I would also like to know the actual block temperature instead of eight little blips on the screen. If they can give me exact ground speed and PTO speed, why don't they give exact engine temperature?
I'd also like the option of a cloth seat, the plastic one is hot and sticky in the hot sun. It is comfortable though.
I would recommend any Grand L series for someone looking for a rock solid tractor.

Date Purchased: 6/2005
Purchased: New
Price Paid: US$65535
Pros: Very strong, excellent fel, loaded with features, strongest 3pth on any tractor under 40hp
Cons: Little things - lack of 4wd indicator lamp on panal, needs cloth seat option
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