Tractor decision

[paulsharvey]

Well, what I often see, locally, is about 10% Over new, but comes with impliments. I think I would rather buy 100% new, and source heavily used impliments. Too each their own.

 

[paulsharvey]

As an example, a '21 Kubota L3301, for $30k. Yes, you get a box blade and mid mount mower (I assume, it says mower deck), and a box blade.

Brand new, you could get a CK3510/3520; for $26.5k; leaving plenty of money to pick up a $300 BB and $750 finish mower; and financing new would probably be significantly cheaper than financing the used machine (rates, length of loan, insurance, ect).

Now, let's say, that Kubota, with impliments, was $20k, then, that become worth it (maybe).

 

[rScotty]

As an example, a '21 Kubota L3301, for $30k. Yes, you get a box blade and mid mount mower (I assume, it says mower deck), and a box blade.

Brand new, you could get a CK3510/3520; for $26.5k; leaving plenty of money to pick up a $300 BB and $750 finish mower; and financing new would probably be significantly cheaper than financing the used machine (rates, length of loan, insurance, ect).

Now, let's say, that Kubota, with impliments, was $20k, then, that become worth it (maybe).View attachment 842968

That's an interesting comparison, and good example of both of our biases. I like it.

The Year of a tractor goes by when it is sold, not the year manufactured. That leads to some oddities. Both the Kioti and Kubota are models that have been out for awhile, so it is entirely possible that both that Kioti 3510 and the Kubota 3301 were manufactured in a model run around the same time - say, 2015 - and warehoused for years. In fact, the used one could actually be several years newer.

You would have to compare serial numbers with help from the mfg or dealer to be sure.
BTW, 110 hours is nothing. In fact, probably better than zero hours as it has enough hours to be proven good - and the most important services already done.

The price difference could simply be the standard difference between a manual transmission or single speed HST versus the Kubota's 3 speed hydrostatic.

Or it could be in the quality of the implements. Those are very inexpensive implement prices you are quoting.

From the descriptions you give, I'd call it a draw pricewise - but without enough information to actually make a decision.

rScotty

 

[jyoutz]

As an example, a '21 Kubota L3301, for $30k. Yes, you get a box blade and mid mount mower (I assume, it says mower deck), and a box blade.

Brand new, you could get a CK3510/3520; for $26.5k; leaving plenty of money to pick up a $300 BB and $750 finish mower; and financing new would probably be significantly cheaper than financing the used machine (rates, length of loan, insurance, ect).

Now, let's say, that Kubota, with impliments, was $20k, then, that become worth it (maybe).View attachment 842968

I don’t believe the L01 Kubota series have mid pto, so they are probably referring to a 3ph rotary cutter or grooming mower. I agree with Scotty. Those implements aren’t cheap, especially the 6 way hydraulic blade, mower and chipper. If those implements are in good condition as well as the tractor, and the implements would be of use to you, that’s a good deal. Especially if the original warranty will transfer. No warranty, I would go with the new Kioti.

 

[Torvy]

This fallacy of used equipment being better than new is just silly. More likely is that the used equipment has been proven to have a problem and the seller is getting rid of the problem. It could just be that the seller was lax in his maintenance or pushed the unit beyond its capacity. Those problems can be hidden, but may be a ticking time bomb. Caveat Emptor.

There are exceptions, but it really takes a combination of mechanical knowledge to investigate the unit beforehand and personal knowledge of the seller and their integrity.

Is it possible that a used tractor has the 'kinks' worked out? Sure. Is it likely? No.

Like anything else, buying used tractors is primarily a cost play. With diesels, it can be an emissions play, too. (For some people it could also just be a hobby thing...enjoy finding and fixing problems/restoration) Losing most or all of the warranty is hardly a good thing compared to the vain hope that the seller is honest.

 

[Little Red Tractor]

Admittedly, I have not read all the comments, so I me be dublicating some.
Shop the dealer. If the service is no good, no tractor will be totally satisfactory.
Mass is your friend. Assumiming two machines of near-qual horsepower, you can get more work out of the heavier one--1000 pounds makes a big difference.
I agree that a cab is more trouble than it's worth if you're working in the woods.
Don't be afraid of a rental to do singular projects--e.g. an excavator for digging.
You'll get lots of good advice here, filter it as to what applies to you.

 

[tradosaurus]

And it is his money.

Doesn't mean his decision will be the best. I have 35 acres woods, 10 acres non wooded.
If I was worried about snow and the cold I probably would have gone with a cab but being in East Texas I elected not to bust glass and weather the heat.

 

[Imfrugal247]

Hi, I’m new to this forum. I have 50 acres, 15 pasture, 35 wooded. We are starting construction on a new home, 1400 foot driveway. Right now I am focused on LS
MT347 cab hydro with bucket, plow, box blade, brush hog. Am I on the right track? Up until now I have only had garden tractors. Thnx, Barry

Also consider a backhoe attachment and a grader. Landpride makes a great grader for those long driveways. Look at service after the sale, most problems show up during the 1st 100 hours, parts if you DYI. I run a Kubota and love it. Follow your maintenance schedule get a great grease gun “Dewalt or Lincoln” grease is cheaper than steel and get some zerk guards Cheap and ensures everything gets grease and keeps the zerks in great shape for years.

 

[tradosaurus]

I understand the caution with cab in woods, but want ac/heat.
the 15 acres may do some small plots , garden. Driveway will be maintained only, plow for snow with 3rd function.
Implements: snow plow, grapple, brushhog, box blade, pallet forks, bucket.
Budget about 55k.
Terrain, slight rolling hills, north western Pa climate, occasional big snow accumulations.
Storage for now , garage until outbuilding can be built.
Plow for snow removal driveway(1400 feet).

I agree with the cab for your situation. I'm not a cold person so I would want to be comfortable plowing snow. Just remember to clear paths through your woods for working with a cab tractor.

I would stick with R1's (agricultural) tires. As much as you will be clearing snow you don't want to have deal with chains for the tires.

I would test drive the New Holland, John Deere and Kubota in the 55 hp range before you make your final decision. Look at dealer rating as well as parts availability. Dealer maybe great but if parts are an issue it won't matter.

Remember; buy once, cry once.

 

[GeneSimm7]

Buy more tractor than you think you need. You will always want a bigger/better tractor. Check out each dealer's reputation and whether or not they will pick up for service.