OK... *pant*pant*
I've visited about every dealer ship in a 30 miles radius (about 6 dealers) who sell compacts. I've driven the NH TC40, NH TC33, Kobota 3430, JD 990, JD 4510, Kioti DK34, and the MF 1433V (used) and I still didn't get to the Branson dealer /forums/images/graemlins/frown.gif *phew* What a day!
Heres my sub total for the day:
(All quotes are R4 tires and a front loader.)
JD 990 - $18,270
JD 4510 - $20,800
Kobota 3430DT - $17,500
Kioti DK34 - $16,200
MF 1440V (New) - $17,344
MF 1433V (Used) - $14,500
NH TC40 - $19,700
NH TC33 - $15,900
I've had to endure lectures about single or dual hydralic pumps, turning radiuses, Clutches, Hydrostatics, dual stage pto's, sliding seats, telescopic steering, Powerverse-a-thingy, Green sux because..., Red sux because..., Orange sux because..., jezz, can't we all just get along?!
I've got about 10,000 pages of literature to go through, 9 videos, 6 dvd's and a partridge in a pear tree!
I've yet to figure out whos got the bomb but, I sure like the Kobota the best so far...
I do know that JD sure does like to throw thier weight around when it comes to longevity and price!
I just can't wait to try the Branson now!
The only thing is, my brother-in-law has a good point... If Branson/Century was to go out of business, god forbid, where would you get service & parts?
Just cusious if anyone else may have a solution or brand that may have compatible the parts.
Thanks again for all the insight! There sure is alot to consider before buying one of tractors, I had NO IDEA!