5203 Shortage

[Wombat125]

Hello from Colorado!!

Like a several others on the board here I did a ridiculous amount of research to determine which tractor would fit my requirements. Once I settled on the JD 5203, I got quotes from a few dealerships and ultimately negotiated the best price from the closest dealer. So far so good, so I signed the papers.

Then I get a call a couple days later saying that the lead time on a 5203 is sometime in September. Phooey. Lead time on a 5303 is July, 5103 is June, and they have a 5403 in stock.

The thing is I really don't want a 5403 because aside from the $3000 price differential, I don't want the model with the engine that is turned up to its maximum design threshold. I realize that it would probably be perfectly reliable and outlast me, but it's my hangup and I'm not letting go. I kind of don't want the 5103, because a 45 hp MFWD in that class seems a little underpowered. I could work with a 5303, but July isn't much better than September.

I realize there isn't much I can do about the situation, but it feels good to relate to a group who understands my angst.

It's not really life and death situation. I just need to find a way to get the lawn mowed a few times this Summer. Thanks for lending an ear/browser.

[ChuckinNH]

What do the other dealers say, and is your dealer willing to find one at another dealership to make the sale?

[WilliamBos]

If they cant find another one to get for you, either they give you the next model for a better price, or you tell them it is off, and you buy another colour.

If JD is that far behind, the need to boost production between soring and fall, or they will lose business.

JMHO.

Will

[Wombat125]

I agree with you guys. I could see a few weeks lead time, but four months is unacceptable. They will certainly lose sales that way.

My dealer did suggest that he did a dealer-search for a 5203 in the area, but I'm not sure how much effort he put into it.

Like I said, I want the 5203 and I would consider the 5303, but I've pretty much ruled out the 5103 and 5403.

[mstewart44]

I think if you keep looking at other dealers - extend your reach geographically - and you will find there is inventory out there. I purchased mine in south GA and there are plenty of these tractors in inventory down here. Keep looking and you will find one.

Care to post a sales price to help your fellow TBN mates??

[Wombat125]

$26,300 for 5203 with 522 loader and, hood guard, and block heater. Price is from southeast Denver.

Perhaps I'll make a few more calls tomorrow. Thanks for the advices.

[warhammer]

Do you have a Hodaka Wombat125?

Originally Posted by Wombat125

$26,300 for 5203 with 522 loader and, hood guard, and block heater. Price is from southeast Denver.

Perhaps I'll make a few more calls tomorrow. Thanks for the advices.

[Wombat125]

Originally Posted by warhammer

Do you have a Hodaka Wombat125?

Oh, I might have a few.

I grew up riding my Dad's Ace 100 B+, but he sold it about 20 years ago.

A few years ago I stumbled across a nearly pristine Ace 100 B on Criagslist for $700. That's how the disease started. Now have 2 Aces, 1 Wombat, and 1 Super Rat that all need various amounts of work to bring them back to life.

I would like to hang out with the AHRMA guys one day soon.

[tjkadar]

Originally Posted by Wombat125

Hello from Colorado!!

Like a several others on the board here I did a ridiculous amount of research to determine which tractor would fit my requirements. Once I settled on the JD 5203, I got quotes from a few dealerships and ultimately negotiated the best price from the closest dealer. So far so good, so I signed the papers.

Then I get a call a couple days later saying that the lead time on a 5203 is sometime in September. Phooey. Lead time on a 5303 is July, 5103 is June, and they have a 5403 in stock.

The thing is I really don't want a 5403 because aside from the $3000 price differential, I don't want the model with the engine that is turned up to its maximum design threshold. I realize that it would probably be perfectly reliable and outlast me, but it's my hangup and I'm not letting go. I kind of don't want the 5103, because a 45 hp MFWD in that class seems a little underpowered. I could work with a 5303, but July isn't much better than September.

I realize there isn't much I can do about the situation, but it feels good to relate to a group who understands my angst.

It's not really life and death situation. I just need to find a way to get the lawn mowed a few times this Summer. Thanks for lending an ear/browser.

Same issue with my 5325. They say September before I get my tractor.

[tomttomtom]

Look at JD's site machinefinder.com. There's a bunch of 5203's on their.... See if your dealer will truck one in for ya?

T