murphy1244
Epic Contributor
- Joined
- Nov 25, 2011
- Messages
- 20,038
- Location
- Ohio
- Tractor
- Kubota 1120 RTV Kioti DK-40, MF-135, Ventrac 4500Y
If I was looking for a SCut I would be checking out the Kubota BX-25D
I was in the OP's position a year ago so I'm going to weigh in even though I don't have the experience that a lot of you other guys have....
For the OP, a 2520 sized tractor would probably do what he wants/needs for just about everything. The only thing that I'm not sure of is how it would handle a rear mounted tiller. And, a larger tractor would probably better handle a box blade for his gravel driveway.
Hope this helps!!
As you see, We know how to spend your money!
First let me start by saying this board is great. Being able to get the diversity of knowledge and opinion in one place makes this somewhat daunting task a little easier.
Let me see if I can clarify a few items that have come up about the different tasks I foresee.
[*]All the land is either grass, garden area, or mature woods. I don't foresee any need for any heavy brush clearing in my future, but I do see the need for the tractor to be able to navigate back into the woods for FEL tasks. Bringing in mulch or chips and bringing out firewood or stones.
[*]The driveway I need to maintain is at most a couple hundred yards, but is on a grade. It would be nice to have something that could handle that task without breaking a sweat, but realistically it's something I would do once or twice a year (it will not get heavy vehicle use) and as long as I can get the job done (even at twice the amount of time) I would be ok with that.
[*]I think in order to maintain WAF (Wife Acceptance Factor) I need to stick with a MMM. From what I have read of the JD's anyway, it appears that taking them on and off has been simplified.
My thoughts so far is to move up the ladder a bit (maybe a JD2520) to access the better hydraulics, but to stay within that size/weight range. Obviously I have not yet had any butt in the seat time, so that could change, but so far I'm finding it hard to justify the significant $$ increase to move up the next step. That being said, from what I have seen of used prices (at least with JD and Kubota) they hold their value enough that I could trade up later if I found the need to.
I'm also leaning heavily toward buying used, although probably from a dealer. If anyone has any thoughts on that I would appreciate any insight.
In regards to the BH, is it a decision I need to make up front? Are the frames different on the models that can handle a BH? Also, are BH's brand/model specific? Are there after market backhoes that may not integrate quite as tight, but may be less expensive for the few times it gets used?
Thanks again for everyone's help!
-mark
I don't understand why some of you are talking 30+HP CUT for someone who is mowing 2 acres or less. You can do that with a riding mower with less than 20 HP gas engine. Where is the need for more than a SCUT or low to mid 20's HP?
Have you ever used a small CUT? A B series Kubota or Kioti CK20 or CK27 would easily do the tasks listed on 2-3 acres. It would cost less, use less expensive and easier to store implements too. For the cost of a 30+HP CUT you can get a BX25 or equivalent and have the bonus backhoe too. A BH is much more valuable on a small lot than an extra 5-10 HP IMO. Been there.
There are certainly situations were more than mid 20's HP can be justified on a small lot but I don't see any in the OP's initial note.