Buying Advice 45 hp Tractor purchase

[lb-farmboy]

Could someone help me decide on what kind of tractor would be a good buy for a tractor of this size. I am looking currently at a Yanmar LX450, which I have heard good reviews about, but am still confused.......some say LS is just as good, I don't know.
Then others say get a Kioti, it will run circles around the Yanmar. I know that the Yanmar is suppose to have better matched components ( Performanc Link Technology) which is suppose to make it perform better than comparable tractors for the money....anyone that ones to put some info. on this please do so, I need help. Thanks......Leland B.

[Mousefield]

Kioti makes a great tractor, have a look at the DK40 or 45 model. You may be pleasantly surprised at what a nice machine it is. I have the CK35 HST which is smaller and lighter than the DK series. Sure have been happy with mine over the past 3 1/2 years.

[kf4uda]

I don't have any experience with the brands that you mention. One thing that I would be considering is a dealership instead of just the brand. What dealers are around you? Do you have experience with them or know someone who does? When things go wrong good support from a dealer can make a big problem into an inconvenience.

Ok now forget all that and just go buy a New Holland and you will be happy!

[nybirdman]

One thing about Yanmar,the used to build(under 50 hp.) for JD,and I still think the supply some engines.

[Gittyup]

There are so many choices. You really should research all of them. Kioti is good. Bobcat is the same thing basically in white. Kioti also has the value priced DS series that are basic tractors for less than their DKs. But everyone loves the DK40/45 with it's great loader specs. I hear LS is a good value. Mahindras are good. So are NH, MF, JD, bota. There's a tremendous number to choose from.

[ljohnson778]

I had a Yanmar Lx450 and loved it, the loader was a real beast. Talk to anyone who has actually run one, and I figure you'll hear the same thing, it's a real tight machine. Only reason I parted with it was because I had to go bigger and Yanmar isn't selling a bigger model in the US yet, to my knowledge.

[MtnViewRanch]

Most everything has been said, but I can not emphasize enough, set on as many tractors as you can before you spend the money. Most all spec out close to the same, but they are not laid out the same and what feels good to me may not to you. If the dealer is important to you, then shop dealers first and then pick a tractor that the best dealer has.

Just my

[Mark Page]

In 2002 I bought a new Massey Ferguson 231s, 45 hp, 2 wheel drive. Except for maintenance I've not put a penny into it. After 1020 hours it runs like new. As it's considered a utility tractor it weighs considerably more than the compacts. As you know weight equals traction. The Perkins 3 cyl. engine starts in the coldest weather. With ag tires on the rear it's pulled some amazing loads, including a 3 bottom plow and a loaded hay wagon. Sips fuel and is very comfortable to run.
You can find some 38 hp 231's for great prices as well as 231s models.

[IslandTractor]

Originally Posted by Gittyup

There are so many choices. You really should research all of them. Kioti is good. Bobcat is the same thing basically in white. Kioti also has the value priced DS series that are basic tractors for less than their DKs. But everyone loves the DK40/45 with it's great loader specs. I hear LS is a good value. Mahindras are good. So are NH, MF, JD, bota. There's a tremendous number to choose from.

Agree completely. I've had a Kioti Dk40se hst for five years and it has been a great machine. Great bang for the buck.

As MtnViewRanch notes the dealer is very important too. I love my tractor but would choose a Mahindra or LS without hesitation if the dealership comparison was against he Kioti/Bobcat.

[AKfish]

Originally Posted by nybirdman

One thing about Yanmar,the used to build(under 50 hp.) for JD,and I still think the supply some engines.

Yanmar still supplies many of the engines for JD's lineup of lawn tractors, sub-compact and compact tractors. 22hp to 44hp in a diesel engine.

I've owned 2 JD tractors with Yanmar engines and would buy another in a blink! Currently, own a JD110 with the same engine as the Yanmar LX450. Rock solid.

AKfish