So if the JD dealer told you the PTO always turns, on the Kubota or Kioti CK he is full of chit.
Hahaha! What he actually said in the email was, "They [Kioti] still use a Live PTO which no one has used since the 1970’s. In other words your rear PTO is always running, using up fuel and engine horsepower while you’re using your loader". "The reason the JD weigh less is they are able to use this superior technology to bend and shape much thicker gauge steel to make frame components. Our competition has to cut many pieces and weld components together in order to get the shapes and strength needed. Obviously one thick piece of steel is stronger and lighter than that several pieces welded together and a longer, heavier tractor with a smaller engine really isn’t a good thing."
James, I appreciate your explanation about the PTO. Using a "feathering clutch" for the PTO is no problem for me. If the likes of Kubota and Kioti are still using them, so can I.
The Kuboti at $600 less than the CK30 but doesn't have the telescoping links, SSQA, dealer loaded tires, or the free delivery offered by the other NH/Kioti dealer. Anything that makes my job easier I like and it sounds like adding those things runs the price up quickly.
As for the local MF dealer... got a set of quotes back a good deal higher than I expected. He even quoted the NH Boomer 30 at much higher than the first dealer.
$21,885 for the 1532 HST FEL
$19,000 NH
As he's the only local MF dealer, I'm effectively ruling that option out. Only waiting on Mahindra dealer, then it's crunch time. I must admit, I'm having fun and haven't even turned a key yet! :dance1: