crazy how flat some parts of the country are. Here in NH and Maine, 50 foot square is a large flat surface, and I can't go 6 inches down without hitting something hard!
In summary, I think the Kioti was trying to run an implement that was too much to handle. Likely the PTO clutch started to slip and generated crazy heat. Either way, If you work any machine hard enough and long enough, something will typically give.
I raced motocross for years, if you ride a bike WOT long enough in dusty enough conditions or in muddy conditions, a locked motor is inevitable. Seized more than one motor at Southwick, and i've seen the experts seize more than one motor in day.
Safe to say Yamaha, Kawasaki, Honda and Suzuki make stout motors, I've seen hem all fail.
I've owned Deere, Kubota and Kioti. My Kioti is built about as good as the Kubota and Deere. Honestly, I've owned nothing better than a Kubota, seems like you just can't kill them, at least not the old ones. But if I tried hard enough, I'm sure I could find a way.
My Kioti motor starts as easily and runs as strong and smooth as any Diesel I've owned. The Hydraulics are third party, at least hoe valve body. The tranny is smooth. My only complaint is the dual clutch for PTO, which in my case sticks a bit and I need to shut down machine to engage my snowblower or grind-city. I need to fix the adjustment. When fully depressed the blower stops, but there's still not full dissengement. My machine is fully gear.
My Kubota no such issues.
With all that said, I'd buy another Kioti without hesitation.
Joel