Kubota BX2200 (2001, FEL, bar tires, wheel weights)
Model Year: 2001
I purchased my BX late winter 2001. My reasons for choosing the BX over John Deere, New Holland, and Cub Cadet (the other brands I considered) were reputation, location (Messick's Farm Equipment is close to me), and model maturity in the marketplace. At the time, Kubota was one of only a handful of manufacturers offering a subcompact, and at the time, John Deere was just introducting the 4010 line. Detail: While I'm very pleased with my BX I have learned a lot as an owner. I use my tractor hard. The power these little machines have is incredible. It has been through many large snowstorms and handled anything less than 2' with ease. More than that and the lack of clearance makes it tough. As mentioned in my cons section, there are several, what I would call flaws, in the design. I don't know about them currently, but in 2001, Kubota used junk hoses. ALL of my hydraulic lines dry-rotted within 8 years. I replaced ALL of them with Parker and it is fine now. My other pet peeve is the hydrostatic pedal. It stuck from the factory, and it was a known issue that Kubota never addressed. When I bought my tractor, in comparison to other brands, it blew them all away. I have since been considering a new tractor and at this point I'm leaning toward John Deere. I like their overall design much better than Kubota's. They are roomier, and have some options on them that I find beneficial that Kubota's don't have as standard options. (Folding ROPS, Work lights, etc.) The transmission on the BX is outstanding, and was a large reason why I chose it initially. Heavier axle was a big deal to me. As hard as I used it, I'm glad I did because at the time, all the other brands had small, thin axles that worried me. The other manufacturers have since addressed this I believe and have a much more robust axle as well. Overall, I have no regrets in my purchase, and after 10 years of ownership, it still runs like a dream with regular maintenance. I have gotten water in the fuel a few times, and have since started to use additives. I still think the Kubota products are fine machines, although pricey to maintain.
Pros: Handles jobs much larger than advertised. Very powerful 22 horse diesel engine. Engine and drivetrain have proven to be reliable. Handled a 6' Bush Hog finisher relatively well. Easy to maintain. Easy access to all major components.
Cons: Hydraulic lines (all dry rotted in less than 8 years. Hydrostatic pedal stuck from factory, no fix. 3 point hitch is WAY undersized. Small cockpit for larger people. No Folding ROPS. No Work lights, and front lights are worthless with the FEL attached. Very light in the rear end, even with wheel weights. VERY expensive to replace parts.
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