Thinking of pulling the trigger

I've been reading the ls posts a few weeks now (1st post) and have learned a lot. I started my search for a tractor visiting the dealerships of most of the well known brands. During my research I ran across this forum and other info about the LS brand. Everytime I try to go back to the more well known colors I just keep coming back to the LS.

Going strictly by the specs its hard to find more tractor for the money. I;m looking at the R4041.

I know LS tractors have been around for years in some form or another but I was wondering how some of you guys felt about buying a LS branded tractor and what has been your experience with parts and warranty coverage.

Also what would be a good price for the R4041 with loaded tires?

:welcome:I am sure LS owners will check in and give you some good information.:thumbsup:

No regrets on the LS purchase. Like you I was looking at everything and the LS just seemed the best deal I could find. The only problem I have had was with a leak down in the loader valve. Dealer replaced it promptly. I was initially looking for a gear, but after several test drives with the hydro I was sold. Really enjoyed the hydro over the non syncro gear I grew up with.

Welcome from Ohio, Try Kioti. DK 40

I've owned my 3039H for a year now. I've had one warranty issue and my dealer is 120 miles from me. I called my dealer and the replacement part was drop shipped at my door within four days. Of course, I donated my labor but that's a lot better than hauling it back to the dealer. I couldn't be happier with my purchase. I have a bit shy of 100 hours on it. My uses are about 50% loader work with heavy dirt and 50% mowing brush.

Just bought my R4041 Shuttle... No regrets. There are times I wish I had purchased the HST rather than the shuttle (because I recently had left shoulder surgery and it's difficult to shift at the moment, but will get better in a few months)... but you are right, you simply CANNOT beat LS when it comes to "bang-for-your-buck." After owning mine for a short time, I can see some things that could be improved. Very minor things, but things that I would change none the less. However, I do not regret buying it and the L4101 loader is, arguably, the best loader in the class.

I came from a Kioti, and like Murphy said, the DK40 is worth looking at. The DK40 will run you roughly $1500 more. I compared the two and went with LS. Here's a comparison I made if you wish to look at it: http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/.../270740-new-tractor-check-inside-details.html

Thanks for the info TSo. Good stuff.

I tried to look at the Kioti but the dealer was not too interested in showing the Kioti's. He was really pushing the mahindra 3616.

I am very excited to report that I just bought a 4041H, and have it home now! I too researched this topic to death (there are a number of good past threads on TBN specifically talking about the big LS question: how are they so much cheaper!?). At the end of the day it just made a ton of sense to buy an LS to 1. purchase a quality machine with great support and 2. stretch your dollar as far as possible. I got my 4041h, loaded tires, FEL, backhoe (with an extra bucket), forks, 6' box scraper, extra filters etc, and added hydraulics in the back (for top and tilt) for $28k in northern California.
Feel free to ask if you have any specific questions.
Cheers

Just got an advertisement ... 4041 gear for $18,500 and 4041 hydro for $19500, (and just to confuse you) the 4047 gear for $19,500 and 4047 hydro for $20,150. all with FEL, in SW Missouri.

There are a lot of threads about loading tires on TBN. I decided to wait a while before doing that. Will probably end up using RV antifreeze (propylene glycol) as it is non-poisonous and doesn't leave a sticky mess. Around here a lot of people use methanol (poisonous), windshield wiper fluid (ethylene glycol - poisonous) or Rim Gaurd (sticky). Do some reading as each material has its pros and cons. You may value a heavier fluid no matter what it is.

Around here the Kioti's have a reputation for being very rugged and I looked hard at them. I think the Kioti loader may lift higher, but I liked the layout of the cab a LOT better on the LS5030C. I suppose there will be days when I wish the loader reached a bit higher, but everyday I'm glad I like the layout of the cab.

I deliberately chose a gear tractor because I didn't want to give up the PTO hp that a hydro takes. Not sure it that was the right choice as most of my chores are back & forth as opposed to pulling a brush hog or hay equipment. With a 4041 I doubt you'll be pulling hay equipment, so the down side of getting a hydro is that you may need to settle for a brush hog that is a foot narrower than what the gear version would spin.

Just my opinions of course - good luck with your decision