I Just found this Thread-- but if it is of any value still to anyone: I own a small timber farm. I purchased a Branson 3510i with a Backhoe and Loader in 2008. It is a very sturdy, reliable and Heavy duty Machine for the price I paid. You get more for the money as well: It has just a little more of everything over an equal Kubota , John Deer, Mahindra and many others regarding basic functions over all weight and features including the factory loader capacities and the backhoe capabilities. One main feature is Branson has two Hydraulic pumps (one for stering and one for attchments). I work the crap out of this tractor moving tree trunks, brush, clearing, digging huge pit-, ponds, and many other things. I never have used the PTO however, So far so good. The only drawback I see thus far is Dealers are dropping off like flies. There are still many out there and I can still get attention on parts that I Broke (my Fault) but starting to get worrried about the dealer thing.