Buying Advice JD 870 vs Kubota L2050 vs Mahindra 3505-DI

[rebelkris76]

I recently posted an info request re: a Kubota L2350 and a JD 750. The JD ending up selliing before I could get to it and the L2350 spooked me b/c of the turf tires. I am now looking at the 3 tractors outlined in the subject line. I need a tractor that will pull a 5' bush hog and 5' tiller. Yes, I would love to have a 4wd with a loader and everything else they offer...and one day I will have one...but for now, I just need a small tractor that I can accomplish the above needs...for less than $6k.

'91 JD 870 2wd with 1,530 hours. This tractor is at a dealership, listed for $5,750...said they will take $5,500...I need a bush hog, and they said they would take $6k for the tractor and a new 5' bushhog. The hours spook me a little on this one...should they? Or is 1,500 hours nothing for a tractor like this?

'91 Kubota L2050 2wd with about 900 hours. $5,600 and includes a 5' bushhog and a 5' box blade

Year unknown (assume early 90's) Mahindra 3505-DI 2wd with 593 hours...$6k, includes 5' bushhog

My gut tells me the JD is the better tractor (have heard the 700 and 800 series tractors were very reliable), but the hours scare me a little.

Feedback is appreciated.

RebelKris

 

[AchingBack]

The Mahindra 3505, built in India, strong as a tank, has plenty of power to handle your tasks. Due to the low hours and a very reasonable price, including the cutter, I'd certainly consider it. I wouldn't hesitate to offer a few hundred dollars less, though.

Here is what owners of the 3505 have to say about it. Mahindra 3505 Reviews - TractorByNet.com

 

[RoyJackson]

The 870 is a tough machine....good value.
As far as the hours....Yanmar engines (which are in most of the Deere compacts...in fact, the 870 may have been manufactured by Yanmar) are very durable...I know of 2 Deere 4300's (a bit newer then the 870) with >5000 hours.

 

[JD15302155870]

I have an 870 that I bought new. It has 1,000 hrs and has never had any service other than routine maintenance. It has no problem with a 5' bush hog even in dense foliage. I don't have a tiller but it pulls a 5 shank all purpose plow and puts it well in the ground. I also pulled a 7' finishing mower and had no problem keeping the RPMs up even in 5or 6 in. Grass. I wouldn't sell mine for $5500.