Buying Advice John Deere or Branson?

[terryknight]

not sure what models you are comparing, but deere offers a SSQA carrier as an option ($250 on the 553 loader i got in 13 and $500 on the loader my uncle bought in 17) and extendable 3ph links ($700 on the 5055e). and yes those are options worth getting

 

[Ortimber]

If resale means anything in the future, the JD will bring more.

 

[rScotty]

not sure what models you are comparing, but deere offers a SSQA carrier as an option ($250 on the 553 loader i got in 13 and $500 on the loader my uncle bought in 17) and extendable 3ph links ($700 on the 5055e). and yes those are options worth getting

I agree with both those options. Worth the money, and fairly priced.

Although I haven't ever bought anything with resale in mind, it makes sense that the JD will have a better resale value. Maybe as much as most of the original price difference. But I personally wouldn't make resale a part of my own buying decision.
That's because tractors aren't like cars. Tractors don't wear much. I don't think it is unreasonable that any tractor that lasts through the warranty will go just about as long as you want to keep it without any significant wear or repairs. Just do the routine maintenance.

And BTW, that's a good reason to really get down and compare the warrantys. And get in writing who is responsible for hauling and time lost if repairs are necessary...all those kind of things. Write it in and both parties initital it right on the sales contract.
rScotty
rScotty

 

[Fireman1317]

Thanks for all the responses. I have decided to go with the Branson 4225H. In the end, I believe the Branson is a better designed and thought out tractor, for this segment or class.

For those maybe in my same position, my reasons for the Branson are below.
* Better standard features on Branson
* SSQA on Branson, not proprietary like Deere.
* Location of remotes and their controls
* Location of fuel tank
* Steel body panels, vs plastic
* 3 point lift capacity and FEL lift capacity are greater on Branson.
* Overall weight of tractor is more with Branson.

This is by no means a bash on JD. I’m still a fan and lucky to drive them on the farm I work part time on. For me Branson fits more of the bill for what I need. That and it fits more in the bosses budget!

 

[ptsg]

Now you can't get away with it without showing us pictures of your new toy!

 

[Fireman1317]

Now you can't get away with it without showing us pictures of your new toy!

Oh I won’t. Just finalized deal this morning. Dealer has to add on remotes and 3rd function. Might take delivery sometime next week, not sure yet.

 

[mred2]

I really like the Branson, but no dealer close to me. I went with LS.

 

[Fireman1317]

I really like the Branson, but no dealer close to me. I went with LS.

Both Branson dealer and LS dealer are each about an hour away for me. I considered LS as well, but liked the Branson a little more.

 

[LouNY]

When I got my Branson I had looked at the LS also, but they didn't have the tire to cab clearances for tire chains and the dealer was a few hours away instead of almost one.

 

[forestermassey]

The 25 series is supposed to have the hydro max transmission. Could you tell any difference between that and 20 series? I drove a 25 hp Branson (4720 was not available) and was not impressed with hydro due to how loud it was.