Buying Advice Kioti vs Kubota vs Mahindra vs LS

[rgeddes]

I am need of a tractor. I have 16 acres with 5-6 acres being a field that needs to be cut. I plan on using a Bush Hog, a plow, and a tiller. I would also like a front loader. I plan on creating on field with 2 acres.

I've between several models (all with front loaders and with a shuttle transmission)
Kioti CK3510 - $17,300
LS3038 - $17,500
Mahindra 1533 - $20,054
Kubota 3901DT - $19,895

I am also looking at a 2005 Kioti DK45 with a cab and front loader. It is around $15,000. The DK45 is more tractor than I need right now, but may grow into it. This seems like a very good deal.

What are your thoughts and experiences with these models. I know the Kioti is new for this year, but any experience on the CK35.

Are these good prices? Do the dealers negotiate like a car? If so, how much?

I've read many different opinions on these tractors. Everyone seems to love their own brand.

My opinion so far:
- All have similar options, and size engines.
- Kioti tractors seem to be much heavier duty and beefier. Lots of controls. Good warranty 2 years bumper to bumper and 4 years drive train
- LS is a little smaller, but still beefy. Good warranty 2 years bumper to bumper and 3 years drive train
- Mahindra - Very arrogant dealer. Does not know why I'm even looking at others. Similar to the LS. 5 year bumper to bumper. More expensive
- Kubota - Smaller tractor. Thin tires. Not as big as the others. 2 year bumper to bumper, 3 year drive train.

The used tractor (DK45) stands up nicely to the new ones. It drives the same as the others, just much bigger.

I want a tractor that is easy to maintain and reliable. I have dealers for all four within 20 minutes of my house.

Thanks

 

[Luke'sScreenName]

Sounds like you should rule out the Mahindra. As many will say on here- dealer, dealer, dealer. All are good tractor manufacturers but the dealer makes or breaks your experience. I will also say that no one ever complains about having too much tractor. If you don't need the new tractor financing incentives, I would not be afraid of a low hour used model.

 

[MtnViewRanch]

Go take a long hard look (and try out) the DK45. Of all the tractors listed, that would be the one for me. Only a little bigger than the others and just about double the capabilities, and you can probably get it for less than the asking price. Go look, check it out and don't be afraid to ask the owner questions.

Good luck. :thumbsup:

 

[coolnature]

I agree with Brian. I would be seriously looking at the DK45 before someone else buys it. Check it out thoroughly. You would love having the cab.:cool2:

 

[GManBart]

That DK45 won't last long if it's in reasonable condition....a LOT of tractor for the money.

Remember Rule #1 when it comes to tractors: They shrink when you get them home.

 

[MtnViewRanch]

That DK45 won't last long if it's in reasonable condition....a LOT of tractor for the money.

Remember Rule #1 when it comes to tractors: They shrink when you get them home.

Almost always.

Back when I bought my 75hp tractor, I knew then that it was not going to really be big enough, tried to get a 100hp machine, just could not afford that though and never have been able to make that jump. And now it isn't just the machine, but all the implements, so the cost would be a really hard hit now. If the OP can even consider the DK45, NOW'S THE TIME.

 

[haroldy]

the dk is 10 years old ,,,, how many hours,,,abused????? condition of paint indicates care taken ,,seat wear ,,cracked glass etc

 

[oldpilgrim]

compare the fel lift and 3pt lift capacities. Sit in them and see what feels best. Take measurements and see if you have storage issues due to size.

They're all good machines.

I checked out all the same brands and similar sizes last year and I chose the Mahindra, but I liked my dealer.

 

[Threepoint]

Agree that the DK45 Cab w/ loader is a great machine that will do what you describe and much more, in comfort both summer and winter. But of course condition is important, given that it's ten years old. Might be a cream puff with 1,000 to 1,500 hrs. Could be beat up with many more, and left out in the elements year round. Move quickly to have a look.

However, other things to consider while you're doing that. You don't say if the 16-acre portion of your property is wooded. If you'll be doing much in the woods, cabs can be much more limiting than open-station, and when you damage them, expensive to repair. Also, where will you keep the tractor? The DK series is quite tall (several inches taller than the NX series that is replacing it), and a cab top doesn't fold down like a ROPs. It will not clear the header of a standard garage and many horse barns. Just something to think about before you bring it home. Of course, if that tractor's in great shape, it's well worth stick-building a small equipment shed for it. :thumbsup:

 

[hopm]

I agree with the comment on the importance of the dealer.......I just bought used, and am very pleased.....but for as long as i looked had the dealers I tried to work with given me those prices...might have a new one sitting here.