Buying Advice Leaning toward Kubota B2601-- what else should I consider?

jrheling · Jun 22, 2015

I'm a new member looking to make a first tractor purchase, and would appreciate any input from folks with more experience.

We own 13 acres, much of which is heavily wooded and hilly. We intend to clear a lot of trees and brush. I want a tractor for the following work:

* moving fallen/cut trees
* clearing brush
* moving dirt, compost, and soiled animal bedding
* towing things (mobile animal shelters)
* clearing snow

After talking through our situation with a local Kubota dealer, we're zeroing in on a B2601 with a loader, 5' brush mower, snow blade, and grapple. It seems like this will cover our needs pretty well.

I'm interested in any suggestions or pointers anybody has to offer, and specifically wondering if we should be considering the B33s or L33 instead of the B2601. The dealer's advice is that we're not looking to do anything that would need the additional PTO power we'd get from the additional HP. That's great -- I have no desire to spend more money than I need to, but at the same time I do want to make sure I don't under-buy. What can't I do with the B2601 that I could do with the B33 or L33?

We've only looked seriously at Kubota, and are attracted by its focus on this part of the market and the ease of getting quality local support, parts, repairs, etc. Are there other brands that make a comparable machine in this range that I should consider, given what I'm trying to do?

cartod · Jun 22, 2015

jrheling said:
We've only looked seriously at Kubota,

Well it sounds like your mind is made up. Go buy a tractor.

davesl708 · Jun 22, 2015

Hi and welcome.

Looks like you made a good choice. I doubt you will have any regrets with your choice.

HEC · Jun 22, 2015

Welcome to the forum------- There are some other posts you may want to look at as far as a 4 ft. or 5 ft. brush cutter . I only cut semi tall grass with my B2650 , if I were constantly cutting heavier material I might be thinking 4 ft. . My dealer suggested the 5 ft. and it has worked out good for my needs . I have never cut brush with mine so I can't comment on that . I am very glad I went with 2650 rather than the tier 4 , 33 series .

The L series is a whole different story , you will spend more money but it will get most jobs done easier and quicker . If you could find a good L or better still M series that might be a consideration .

Steppenwolfe · Jun 22, 2015

First off, you have made the right decision with choosing a Kubota. Second, look at an L3301, L2601 to get more tractor. Better to spend a little more now, than to wish you had later.

coobie · Jun 22, 2015

If you are happy with your dealer and there reputation of good customer service buy it..

gwstang · Jun 22, 2015

See if he has one in the size you are most desiring and ask him to loan it to you for a day. They sometimes have a used model sitting around somewhere.

Tompet · Jun 22, 2015

I would suggest looking at the L2501 & B2650...if one reason you are looking at the B2601 is to avoid final tier 4 engine requirements. Otherwise the B3350 or L3301 would also be worth checking out.

For 13 acres and the chores you outlined I would consider a little larger tractor as the models you referenced above. The B2601 will do the chores, but just not optimal IMO. Personally, I would recommend and be comparing the B2650 or the L2501 and making a choice between the two.

Just out of curiosity, did you consider any other brands?

In any event, good luck with your decision and you will enjoy your new tractor no matter what!

Btw, welcome to the forum.

gwstang · Jun 22, 2015

I recently purchased a new L2501 and I can vouch for the L size frame. I really like it for what I do (mostly running a 5' finishing mower and FEL work). Plenty of power for me. I think I like the higher clearance the L size frames have over the smaller one's. No DPF either, as mentioned.

jrheling · Jun 22, 2015

cartod said:
Well it sounds like your mind is made up. Go buy a tractor.

I should have said we'd only looked seriously at kubota so far. I'm open to other possibilities, if it's worth the effort for the chance of concluding that something else is a better choice. Was curious if I'd hear "oh, for what you're looking for I'd suggest <X> instead of the Kubota".