It sounds to me like you might be looking at TWO different tractors. I looked into (and still ponder at times) doing a small Hay operation, but my tractor, even with 47HP, is probably not big & strong enough to handle REAL farm work long term. I would likely have to find a smaller square or round baler, which aren't cheap, and even then it might just be too much work to ask 47HP to handle.
So, you might want to consider finding a used Ag/Utility tractor to handle your field needs, and get a Compact tractor to manage your property now, and still do the logging work you are looking to down the road. If you are sticking with Kubota, and you want the "sweet spot" ... I've seen many Kubota owners on here say that the MX4700/5100 are the way to go. Still a reasonable price. Still good power. LA844 loader lifts almost 2500lbs (so you can pick up round bales). The MX5100 is turbo charged, I think the same engine otherwise as the MX4700. But, the MX5100 comes standard with telescoping 3pt arms, which (after having tractors with both) is nearly a MUST. The downside is that the MX series is a bit more stripped and doesn't come with all the features of a Grand L (or competing brands) like deluxe seat, horn, tilt steering, etc. Also, I don't think you can get an MX with a cab.
I'm always of the mind to "have the power and not need it, than need it and not have it." I'm sure the L3800 is capable, but if this is really going to be your last tractor, up size it. Tractors will shrink after a week or 2, and you might regret getting the smaller size.
Another option to consider is HST trans or Gear (Shuttle) trans. If you step up to the Grand L series you'll get their "HST+" trans which adds more cost, but has more features than standard HST. It's up to you to decide whether or not it's worth it.
ON SNOW: I personally would NOT want to drive backwards, looking over my shoulder, for long periods of time with a rear 3pt snow blower. Talk about a sore neck & back! I agree with others that have said a blade (front or back ... I use a back blade for snow) is money "better" spent.
ON A CAB: My buddy has a L3540 with cab. Very nice. It's a life-saver for him because he has bad allergies, and brush-hogs & mows alot with his tractor. He also uses it to plow snow, so it keeps him warm. A cab definitely adds to the cost, but if you want or need one, I'm sure it's worth every penny. Having a factory cab will automatically change your operators station, widen the fenders, and give you a bit nicer "fit & finish." That's something an aftermarket cab will NOT get you.
ON "IN-HOUSE" BUILDS: (This section applies to Compact tractors... I don't know much about the builds of Ag tractors)
Kubota is all in house. So is Kioti (parent company is actually called DaeDong, and you get their DaeDong diesel). Some Mahindra's are in-house (the xx35 series). Most of LS components are in-house but with Mitsubishi diesels (I'm actually currently researching just what is & isn't with my LS out of curiosity). Massey Ferguson is mostly in-house (built by Iseki) with Mitsubishi diesels. Anyhow, I think Kubota is the "most in-house" of the brands, but there are others that are extremely close. Does that really mean anything? Arguments on both sides have merit. To me it doesn't mean anything, but I'm both right and wrong depending on which side of the fence you sit.
I've owned both LS & Kioti and they've both been great. My buddy has owned 2 Kubota's and his have been great too. Truth is, most of the tractors out there (regardless of brand or color) are built well and will handle your needs. The best way to buy one is to make a little list like this:
- What is the main chore this tractor will do, then #2 & #3 chores, etc... Some tractors will be better at certain things than others. Shop accordingly.
- How much power do I need? The implements and implement sizes will dictate the HP requirements for your tractor. Common rule of thumb is 5-7hp per foot of implement, PTO implements use PTO hp for the measurement.
- Do you have a budget to stick to? No point shopping for a $35000 tractor if it doesn't fit your budget.
- Do you have access to a good dealer? Some people rate this as uber important... it's moderatly (or less) important to me personally, but each argument has merit.
- Tractor Warranty? Some brands have better/longer warranties... may or may not be important to you.
- Most importantly, COLOR: Which color looks the best? Blue of course! LOL, JK... who cares. But it IS blue.
If there is a certain budget amount you're considering, let us know and we can offer our recommendations. :thumbsup: