Search results

^^^^ The machines available that can safely cut in those conditions are expensive too. I have one of the less expensive options and it wasn’t cheap. Hired help might really be the best option. I certainly wouldn’t want to risk my health/life on a good looking hillside. Mike

Be that the case, are you okay with that? Mike

Here’s the progress I’ve been making with my L2501 Turbo setup; Please forgive the duct tape, the silicone couplers and hose clamps are expected to arrive tomorrow. We’re working on the down pipe now. Aside from a small fueling adjustment, this turbo setup will be a complete bolt-on...

^^^^ Got some more work done (Turbo intake pipe and charge pipe); The silicone couplers and hose clamps should be here tomorrow so I can remove the duct tape, lol The transition pipes are being made by hand and have been taking way more time than expected. If we make anymore, I’ll use...

I added 12v accessory outlet to my L2501 too. It’s been a great addition! Mike

Yep, been there, done that. I first purchased a B2601 and quickly realized it was too small for my needs. I ended up purchasing the L2501, which has been great but, I could have gone bigger. And, maybe I will sometime down the road but, for now, the L2501 is getting the job done. Mike

^^^^ HST+ Transmission, more hill stability, lifting capacity, comfort, features…pretty much everything. L3560 is an incredible tractor! Mike

I’d go with a Boxblade, it’s just more versatile. And, the Piranha bar works great, I highly recommend it. Plus, if you need more power for your L2501…I have an answer to that; It’ll be running 45-50HP. Mike

^^^^ Are you close enough to shop in Washington state? Lots and lots of great dealers and options here. Mike

It has taken longer than expected to get the parts together and find the time for the project but…things are finally moving forward; I should have everything finished and running by the end of the month. Mike

I assume most owners won’t be taking their 500/520 UTV’s on the street but, I do take mine on the road while heading over to neighbors homes or jumping trails in my area and because of that, I added the TurnPro kit and rear view mirrors to my 520; Turn signals; License plate & bracket mounted...

Fuel quality and contamination (water in fuel) appear to be the leading cause of tractor engine failures and/or major repairs I’ve read about in recent years. Mike

Much agreed. The MF GC tractors are very very nice. I really like them and preferred it over the competition in its size category. I would recommend the OP to visit the local dealerships and test drive the different options. Mike

^^^^ Lamborghini Miura, is the first that comes to mind. There have been many ICE fires, especially in exotic sports cars, which, in most cases are caused by fuel leaks coming into contact with hot exhaust components. Mike

Not today or next week but, soon enough; https://www.theverge.com/2020/9/23/21452825/california-ban-combustion-gas-vehicles-cars-2035 The average consumer will not appreciate being forced to buy an EV due to legislation and party politics. And, yea, you might have a hard time buying a new EV...

^^^^ I’m not sure about the Volt, but there was a recall on the Bolt’s batteries. https://www.consumerreports.org/car-recalls-defects/chevrolet-bolt-recalled-again-due-to-fire-concerns-a3566085147/ Mike

That’s actually part of the problem with EV’s…EV owners I have interviewed and know personally have two things in common; they are multiple vehicle households (which include at least one ICE vehicle…that they can use in an emergency or recreationally) and are affluent. All enjoy their EV’s...

Great looking tractor! Congrats! Mike

He was traveling. I guess he should just buy multiple homes everywhere he drives and he would no longer have to use public charging stations. Just a thought. Mike

The Pacific Northwest weather, climate and perhaps critters. I refused to watch that car deteriorate before my eyes without a proper air-conditioned garage under my ownership. I felt it was best to pass it on to a new owner that would properly care for and enjoy it. My new garage is being...

So, I dropped one of my vehicles off at the dealership for an appointment around noon. Some guy pulled up in a new Rivian truck for a charge. I hadn’t seen a Rivian up close so I went over to take a look and he was more than happy to show me around the vehicle. It was nice…perhaps better...

In a discussion regarding new tractor buyers, I strongly disagree. A new tractor buyer, even with thorough research and due diligence can still make the wrong tractor purchase (typically buying too small). I’ve read about these mistakes TONS of times. Heck, I’m a casualty myself…I initially...

Well, I guess if I let a poor dealer (s) experience dictate my purchasing options, I would have never purchased a Porsche 911. And, that would have been unfortunate, since it was such a great vehicle and overall ownership experience. Apparently, I didn’t fit the ‘traditional’ Porsche buyer...

Or the blue…. Mike

I don’t know about the availability of the windshield for the Pioneer 1000 but, for amusement purposes, this picture illustrates the size difference between the 520 and 1000. The 1000 is huge, lol I have the 520. I really like it. It’s more of a help on the property than I anticipated and...

Rotary cutters are great for open areas but, not so good when mowing around obstacles and trees. I don’t see any reason why the ZTR you’re considering wouldn’t work to mow your property assuming it’s in good mechanical condition. Mike

Indeed. I agree. That’s the unfortunate reality….which is why I did tons of research and eventually spent more money than I ever thought I’d spend on a lawnmower to safely mow my hilly property. And, I have one of the least expensive hillside mowing options. Mike

^^^^ Just to refresh, the OP’s budget is maxed at $4K. Mike

I agree, $13K is a lot for a mower. Trust me, it took quite some time to wrap my head around it. I don’t expect many residential folks are going to purchase something like it. Knowing your budget, I’d definitely suggest looking at some pre-owned 4WD mowers. But, depending on what’s on top of...

Were either of those ZT’s designed for mowing hills? If not, I’m not surprised they didn’t work. I demo’d several bar/lap style ZT’s and all slide down my hills. I too can mow my hills with a 4WD tractor. I did it for over a year. I had to mow straight up and down in 4WD. It was sketchy at...

According to my gauge, I’m side mowing 50% grade on my property with my Cub Cadet Pro Z. Anything over 45% gets your attention (roll bar up, seatbelt on) and I’ve experienced some slippage at 50% on wet grass. My machine isn’t rated for 50% but manages it reasonably well. I can’t recall the...

This is what I use to mow my steep hills and hillsides, the Cub Cadet Pro Z 560 KW S. It’s not cheap but I highly recommend it. And, it’s built like a tank. Mike

Nope, not interested in EV vehicles, of any kind. Mike

The ZT market is flooded with many good and some poor mowers. While I’m not personally familiar with your ZT, you chose wise options and that mower will serve you well for years to come. I too chose the Kawasaki engine, suspension seat and roll bar on my ZT. And, ultimately, you made the best...

A ZTR will get you a better cut and save you time. Mike

I have smoke on cold-starts, in cold weather conditions if I don’t charge the glow plugs for at least 10 seconds. Mike

^^^^ That’s why I was suggesting the OP to drive and operate both machines before making a decision. That’s what I do when it’s my money. However, I think I can sum up this thread; I own and operate an LS tractor…buy the LS! I own and operate a Kubota tractor…buy the Kubota! I hate blue...

Have you driven or operated either tractor? Go with the one you’re comfortable with. It’s a hell of an investment either way. Mike

Yeah, it seems that each manufacturer has a budget and quality line of engines. I would have gone diesel if I had the option. Mike

Absolutely! That’s my one and only complaint regarding my PRO Z 560S KW….fuel consumption…it’s horrible! Interesting on the Kawasaki needing replacement at 1,000 hours. My dealer says these things last forever… Mike

I’ll have to pay more attention to the anti-scalp, front and rear wheels if the condition persists. Mike

I’ve completed my first two mowing sessions of the season. The mower is running and performing great. However, I’ve had a couple instances tearing turf on my zero turns. We’ve had a really wet spring thus far. So I’m not sure if it’s my driving or the condition of the soil. We’ll see… Mike

Nope. Not with tractors and not with vehicles. I buy the best option, for my requirements, at the time of purchase and cross-shop the competition before making any decision. Mike

I’m closing in on 100 miles… I’m not sure how many of you use your SxS’s for recreational purposes but, my passenger and I did a 30 mile round trip through the forest to get some miles on the 520. Did some trash cleanup too. The 520 handled all the terrain and hills fantastically. Very...

That’s funny. So does mine! ;) Mike

Congrats! Well worth the wait! Mike

^^^^ Agreed. With the rocks and stumps, B2601 at minimum. I had to go from the B2601 to the L2501 for these very same reasons. And, when I got the L2501 home…I realized I could have gone to an MX…tractors tend to shrink when you get them home. That said, I’m happy with the L2501 and don’t...

^^^^ Thank you! I’m taking the 520 in to the dealer for it’s first service at the end of the month. I’ll definitely make them aware of the odd initial behavior although everything seems perfect now. Mike

Interesting behavior. I have 10 hours and 65 miles on the 520. The shifting has really smoothed out and the little machine is running great. What’s strange is within the first 10 or so miles, accurate or not, the 520 could reach an indicated 42 MPH on the speedometer. However, now, it’ll only...

I would like to recommend ‘Apocalypse Never’ by Michael Schellenberger…definitely worth a read. Education should never end, regardless of age. Mike

I’m definitely enjoying the 520. It’s nice to be able to throw my chainsaw, clippers and gear in the back of the 520 and tend to chores on the property. It’s much more convenient than trying to do the same on the tractor. The 520 is my property pickup truck, lol Mike

That’s funny. I have both styles and hooking the treadle pedal for reverse is comfortable and convenient. My foot stays basically flat during the operation of the tractor. I’d probably prefer a traditional design but, there’s nothing wrong with Kubota or the treadle pedal. Mike

Sell attachments individually, unless the tractor buyer is paying ‘top dollar’ for each attachment. Mike

I’ve got just about 20 miles on the 520 and hoping for more today. I’m still getting the abrupt shifting and some vibration at idle. Hopefully things will smooth out a bit with more use. I’ll definitely be adding some taller tires to help with the short gearing. Mike

It’s a great tractor! I’m sure you’ll get a ton of responses from BX owners. Mike

I got the OEM windshield and yes, it’s pretty tight accessing the under hood storage box. I don’t plan on storing anything in there that I need often so it should be okay. Time will tell. Mike

I got everything installed; windshield, hardtop, mirror, under hood storage and glove box. The 520 is ready for business. Mike

We finally had a break in the weather and I was able to drive the 520 around without getting soaked. All I can say…it’s a blast to drive and seems really well made and engineered. I’m very happy. It is a bit noisy at top speed and the gearing is really short. But, it’s got good low end...

Picked up the new Honda Pioneer 520 today!!! I’m looking forward to installing some accessories and get it out on the trails! Mike

You beat me to it!!!! Color should be the only consideration, lol Mike

If I didn’t have my hills, I would have purchased a Ferris. I’m thinking you’re going to really enjoy it! Mike

I bought my new 2021 L2501 last year, so I think the 2022 model is 4-8% more this year depending on incentives/discounts. Mike

My Pioneer 520 has arrived at the dealership. I’ll be picking it up next Wednesday. Looking forward to it. Mike

Me too. I eventually came around and I’m glad I did. Mike

^^^^ I’ll have to investigate the Echo speed feed head…that sounds interesting! Over the last several weeks I’ve ran two gallons of fuel through the 131R clearing lots of heavy brush and saplings. It’s starting to feel a little tired so it’s time for a tuneup! Honestly, I’m surprised it’s...

This is what I use on my sloped and hilly property and… I highly, highly recommend it! It’s a Cub Cadet Pro Z 560 S KW with 4 wheel steering. This machine is excellent and extremely safe on my hillsides. Fantastic mower! I too shopped the Altoz and unfortunately, I didn’t have a dealer...

My biggest complaint regarding my Kawasaki powered ZTR is fuel consumption. It drinks fuel. But, realistically it’s a non-issue since it takes a lot less time to mow. Ultimately, I’d really like a Diesel engine in my ZTR. Mike

It took me roughly 2 1/2 hours to mow around 3 acres on my property on my B2601 w/ 60” MMM. With my Cub Cadet PRO Z 560S KW ZTR, I mow the same area in 1 to 1 1/2 hours. The ZTR is faster, safer and more comfortable on my hilly property. Mike

I too gave up the MMM and purchased a dedicated ZTR for my mowing duties. I’m much happier with the quality of cut and mowing time (saved me 1 hour + per session). Mike

I haven’t priced out a JD in years but, man, that seems like an awful lot of money for a 1025R w/implements. I’d suggest cross-shopping a couple additional JD dealers on the same tractor and, if you’re willing, look at some alternative brands. Mike

I have one of their wood chippers. Works great, I haven’t experienced any issues. I think they’re a good value for the money. Mike

What’s the free mod for the reverse shift? Is there a recommended vendor for wheels/tires for the 500/520? Mike

Great advice. Thanks for sharing! Luckily, I haven’t bent or had any issues with the pole saw, extension or any of the components for my 131R. The 131R is the best tool I own and gets used and abused regularly. Mike

^^^^ I’ll definitely post pics of mine when I take delivery next month. Mike

Not what I’m going for, although, it’s highly entertaining! :D Mike

I will. Absolutely. There will be tons of information to share regarding the project. Mike

There’s no ‘hope’ here. The results will ‘prove’ the effectiveness of the turbo and turbo setup. We already know the tractor frame will support 39HP and the turbo will produce a bit more, for a lot less money. There are a couple successful L2501 turbo setups that have been running, without...

Will do! Mike

There are several members that have successfully added a turbo to an L2501 without cooling issues. There’s a good thread at Orange tractor talk forums discussing modifications specifically to the L2501, including turbocharging. Mike

^^^^ I like the Pioneer 520 for it’s small size and perhaps cost. I like the fact that it’ll fit into the bed of my truck and has the ability to maneuver on narrow trails. It’s perfect for my needs. If I’m being completely honest with the price, it’s rather expensive when compared to...

Cost, DPF and a larger tractor won’t fit in my current garage (when the larger garage is built, I may reconsider). Plus, this tractor frame already supports 39HP, 45-50 ain’t much more. Mike

A custom manifold will be too expensive, so we’re going to run an adapter to fit the turbo. A new MHI Mitsubishi Turbo. I’ve been logging EGT’s for months, there’s more than enough fuel for the turbo. We’re going to run factory timing and we’re not adjusting the RPM limit. More power can be...

Well, I just got the phone call. It seems a 520 is coming in next month! Mike

This is my solution; This is going on my L2501. We’re expecting 45-50 HP and 28-30 PTO. I’m expecting to have it installed in the next couple months. Mike

^^^^^ Not trying to throw too many curveballs at you with your first tractor purchase but, this is going on my simple, mechanical diesel Kubota L2501; We’re expecting 45-50HP, 28-30PTO. Benefits, more power and still a relatively simple setup. Drawbacks, additional cost, no warranty. Mike

On flat land, I believe the 25HP tractor can get the job done. It may be a little undersized on 20 acres but, that just means it’ll take you a little longer to accomplish your tasks. I have a Kubota L2501 HST and highly recommend it for its simplicity, reliability and performance. That said...

For only $900 more, I wouldn’t even consider the L3902. I’d definitely purchase the LE L3560. But, as mentioned earlier, I’d seriously consider the used JD for a season or two. Mike

Manufacturers can afford the software but, at the dealership level, live inventory software, is extremely expensive. It would be great if all tractor dealers had live inventory, like automotive dealerships, but I can’t expect it from the tractor market. Mike

I’d suggest buying the JD3032E. Use it for a season, or two and then sell when you’re ready to buy the L3560. I’d skip the L3901/3902 for the tasks you’ve described above. Plus, I’d also suggest looking at the MX5400. Mike

They’ll both perform well and last for an incredibly long time if used and maintained correctly. Have you driven both tractors? Did one feel better than the other? Mike

I will. Turbo sizing for this application is key due to the low RPM/narrow operating range. With this turbo, we’re expecting 45HP/35PTO @ 2,200 RPM. The delay thus far…trying to get the tractor to a PTO dyno for a baseline. I just don’t have too many options in my area. My local Kubota...

I’ve been logging the factory EGT’s for the last several weeks to obtain a baseline before the turbo is added. Based on the information from a couple other successful turbo L2501’s, we’re not anticipating any need to alter timing so, at this point, just the fuel set screw. So, basically, we’ll...

I’m working on a solution to that L2501 problem 😉 Mike

^^^^^ Indeed. I would have ZERO interest in a L2602 w/DPF. Mike

^^^^ Me too! I’m thinking the same thing! Mike

I wasn't disagreeing, lol. I'm just hoping we don't lose all tractor salespeople. The good ones can be very helpful and a valuable asset to the dealer. I believe they are essential to the market in general. Mike

Man, I hope not. While the online community is EXTREMELY helpful, buying from a knowledgeable dealer and salesperson with experience operating machinery in the local environment and knows the area well, is paramount in finding and purchasing the correct equipment. I had a great salesman...

Good to know! Thank you! Mike

I didn’t think the Kubota tractors had any US made components? I believe some assembly is done in the US and Kubota works closely with Land Pride for attachments but, I thought that was about it. I could be totally wrong though.. Mike

The MF 1835 is a great tractor! I strongly considered one during my last tractor purchase. I’m sure it would be a great investment for your property. Mike

Dangerous but impressive! Mike

Seat time 😆 Mike

^^^^ The Cub Cadet Pro Z are fantastic ZTR’s for hills and slopes! It solved all my hillside mowing issues and saved an hour of mowing time! I highly recommend them. Mike

Just for the record, both of my brand new (2020/2021) Kubota tractors had to go back to the dealer within a month of ownership for an issue, albeit minor. The B2601 had a no start issue. Loose wire to starter solenoid, if memory serves me correctly. The L2501 had a leaking loader valve which...

Yes. White instead of Orange. However, the Bobcat uses a proprietary loader but, they are virtually the same tractor. I would definitely recommend pricing one for comparison. Mike

New prices were DEFINITELY the same between the two brands in my area when shopping in 2020 & 2021. It was, and still is, rather surprising. Mike

You really can’t go wrong with the 2610. Great tractor! Mike

The shade of Orange definitely has an impact on resale value here in the PNW. Kubota values are higher on the pre-owned market and appear to sell much quicker. Surprisingly, new prices between the two brands are virtually identical. The owner of my company is currently selling his Kioti...

I’d suggest buying the orange tractor. Both are great options, you can’t go wrong. Mike

The L series does not have a mid PTO. The B and LX series do offer a mid PTO. Mike

I’m reading this differently. They’re not claiming they currently have 16% of the market share in the US. They simply want to raise their company market share by 4% in the 20-30HP range within the US market. The article speaks of the dominance by John Deere and Kubota in this segment of...

I would agree, luckily, however pedal configurations are universally the same, LHD vs RHD in every modern vehicle I have had the privilege to own or drive. And, yes! I would highly recommend a RHD Japanese mini truck over a side by side. I’m not sure of your location but I have a good...

What’s your point Willy? You adapt. Just like anything else. …I do drive a RHD vehicle and shift a manual transmission with my left hand and drive on the right side of the road. Mike

^^^^ It'll definitely be great to compare the 2017 figures with 2020/2021 sales. While the other brands have experienced enormous growth in the last two years…so has Kubota and John Deere. I still project that Kubota and John Deere are the top two US sellers but, I’m interested in the market...

I’ve been considering the CRI (cold rolled industrial) stump bucket but haven’t pulled the trigger due to price creep. I’ll be interested to see your responses. Mike

^^^^ That’s the only way to operate the treadle pedal…IMHO. OP, good luck with the Massey, they’re an awesome tractor! Mike

I don’t have any experience with the 2025R, but I can recommend the B2601, great tractor! Mike

^^^^ For me it’s observation vs reality, not a purchase justification or ‘fan-boy’ approach. And my curiosity is more on the pre-owned market. It seems that the Green and Orange paint definitely demand a premium in my area. Mike

I’d stay with the Branson if you’ve already placed your order. I prefer Kubota but, Branson is a good tractor and it’ll serve you well. Mike

I use Flo-Fast too. They work great. I have one for gasoline and another for diesel. Mike

I can understand your assessment if mowing is your primary concern on a well manicured lawn. However, for most all other tractor work, weight is essential. And, many of us have made the mistake of buying too small/light. Mike

I’ve been waiting over 3 months for my new stove. I’m sure it’s sitting offshore in a container on a freighter. Luckily, we’re upgrading, so we’re not in immediate need. I also plan on purchasing a new box blade but, it’s not a necessity so I’ll wait as long as it takes for things to calm...

I would go with Kubota if you’re considering selling the tractor down the road. The orange paint and it’s reputation will be beneficial. While many of us prefer two pedals, myself included, I simply hook my right foot under the pedal to reverse. It’s not nearly as awkward using your heal and...

Something like this would be my choice…JDM This example isn’t 4x4 but, they are available. Mike

Very nice! Congratulations! Mike

Very nice L2501! Good luck with the sale! Mike

Congrats on the new tractor! I look forward to your feedback (especially coming from green previously). Mike

I had it happen with my B2601 w/60” MMM when I hit a hidden stump. No damage to tractor or mower. Mike

Branson? I don’t know if you have any dealers nearby but, good value for your dollar. Mike

Yep. My dealer pays the 0% fee. Mike

I will definitely consider one for my next purchase! Thanks Willy :D Mike

When the OP is making a decision between Mahindra and Kubota…the answer is always…Yanmar FTW!!! Thank you Willy ;) Mike

^^^^ Nothing wrong with lap bars, but for those of us with steep hillsides, nothing beats the added stability and control of a steering wheel. Mike

Good to know! Mike

It’s here in the Northwest too! Tractors, cars, trucks, implements, attachments, etc.. Mike

I'm just making sure Willy... ;) Mike

Willy, are planning on purchasing an LS tractor? If so, we’ll need you to start posting videos… Mike

It’s hard to say in this market but…in my area, the Kioti is just as expensive as Kubota and Bobcat is cheaper than Kioti. Go figure. Mike

Are you just shopping brands? Do you have a tractor size, weight or HP considerations? If you’re set on Kioti, please look at Bobcat too. The Bobcat is a rebadged Kioti (with a proprietary loader) and it may be cheaper than a comparable Kioti. Mike

There you go Willy….YANMAR, YANMAR, YANMAR!!!! Don’t let us down again!!! ;) Mike

The current customer service experience depends on lots of factors; the sales staff, the nature of the questions, value of interest and manufacture dealer support, in this ever changing market/environment. I could probably claim the same underwhelming sales experience with my new 2022 truck...

No way…especially in this market. He should take it as-is or find another buyer. Mike

So, I totally missed this service in the manual. However, the service indicator on the mower informed me of the need for a fluid change. The plug on my oil drain hose was virtually welded on. It had tons of red loctite on the plug. I had to use an impact gun to free it. Crazy. I’m just...

I hope the bucket is made of plastic! Mike

The MF GC1725M is a great tractor and really good value. It would definitely save you trips to Home Depot and you could do your tractor work at your convenience. That’s pretty important in my book. Mike

Thank God Willy showed up!!! YANMAR FTW!!! OP spend your money!!! Mike

Interesting…. I’d like to hear some feedback from folks on performance and long term cost compared to traditional blades. Mike

Aside from a little instruction from my neighbor (professional operator for 30 years) and hours of seat time, that’s all the training this city boy received. I’ve done a couple stupid things on my tractors but, I’m getting better with every hour and the neighbor is happy with my work, skill and...

^^^^ Ive had my new 2021, now 2022, Ford F-250 SuperDuty PowerStroke on order since April. I still don’t have a VIN # or build date. Crazy. Luckily, I’m patient, what else can you do? Mike

Congratulations on your Order. The L3560 is a very nice tractor! Mike

^^^^ Im not a brand specific guy but, me too. Mike

I won’t say it’s often, but it happens at new-car dealers. Mike

My B2601 (w/60” MMM) did a pretty darn good job mowing my property. I mowed in Medium gear at roughly 2,300 RPM without the loader attached. Quality of cut was good, not as good as my new ZTR, but good. Mike

^^^^ You may be doing better than I with fuel consumption. It’s worth noting, I do mow steep hillsides, so that may also increase my fuel consumption a bit. And, because of the hillsides, I fill both tanks and keep the fuel lines open on both, to make sure I don’t starve the engine of fuel when...

How long are your mowing sessions? My old boss has a BB Rouge (?) with the 999cc FX Kawasaki engine. I demo’d his mower on my property before making my decision to go with the 560 KW S. The 999 FX drinks fuel. I thought, and we figured the 850 FX wouldn’t be as thirsty and perhaps it’s not...

I had a Kubota B2601, great tractor. I highly recommend it. I also like the Massey Ferguson tractors. The Bobcat is a Kioti, they basically the same tractor, however, the Bobcat has its own proprietary loader. You can’t really go wrong with any of the tractors you’re considering, they’ll...

Congrats on the new tractor! Mike

Really really like it. It’s super simple and without any unnecessary features. It does everything I ask of it and perhaps a bit more. Great tractor! In retrospect, however, I could have gone a little larger. A little more weight, HP and lifting capacity would have been nice. But, I didn’t...

^^^^ Excellent! Good to hear! I mowed with my 560S yesterday. I’m thankful to have such a capable and fine machine. Mike

I accepted a personal check when I sold my B2601 tractor. More than double the OP’s amount. I simply told the buyer the tractor will remain in my possession until the check cleared my account. The check cleared in two days and he came and picked up his new tractor. Mike

^^^^ Me too. Really nice tractor! Congrats to the OP! Mike

Ferris definitely has the better suspension setup when comparing ZT’s… The Pro Z front axle has a pivot type suspension setup and nothing for the rear wheels. The Pro series also have a suspension seat or air ride seat depending on the model. Mike

Kawasaki on most models Mike

I too purchased the Qwikshute block plate. It’s an excellent addition to an already amazing mower. Mike

^^^^ I recently purchased a 2021 Cub Cadet Pro Z 560 S after extensive research and demo’s on my property. I’m extremely happy with this mower. Mike

I agree, I like the way the MF 1835MH looks and drives. However, I ended up purchasing another Kubota so I don’t have any operational experience with that tractor. Mike

Yep, that’s the same story everywhere, you’re not alone. Virtually every market has been affected. The dealers are doing their best to establish accurate ETA’s but they’re often wrong as market and manufacturing conditions continue to fluctuate. In these situations, patience is key. Mike

^^^^^ Agreed. My Cub Cadet Pro Z 560 S is designed for around 20 degree slopes, I believe but, I mow on some 40 + degree hills. On the steep stuff I mow mostly straight up and down but, there are trees I mow around and I don’t have a plateau up top, so I have to also change direction in steep...

Congrats!!! Mike

Thanks for clarifying… Yep, been there, done that. I’ve turbocharged, supercharged, added nitrous oxide to N/A engines and raced (drag & road course) many gasoline and diesel vehicles in my time. Luckily, the vast majority of my experiences have been positive. Mike

^^^^ Having the ability to test-drive options for your specific situation is best…especially when you have hills and rough terrain. I tried several ZTR’s on my property (including a BB) and was sold on the Cub Cadet with the steering wheel after a demo. Mike

Warranty after add-on Turbo, No. What was your experience? What make/model tractor? Who’s Turbo? Mike

Agreed.

Thanks for the update! Mike

I highly recommend the Cub Cadet ZTR with steering wheel….if you want to spend the money. They are a fantastic mower. Mike

It certainly won’t be an option for everyone, but for some, adding a Turbo does make a lot of sense. Obviously, adding a Turbo to an L2501 wouldn’t be a replacement for a larger (heavier) tractor, however, it would allow the tractor to power a wider variety of rear PTO implements, make the M &...

Those coilover shocks look like quite an upgrade! Mike

Very nice! Congrats! Mike

I’ve never really looked at the RTV’s and the access to the engine/engine compartment. Right now it’s looking like the Turbo install on a L2501 would be around 3 hours. I’d hope that labor would be substantially cheaper for a ‘bolt-on’ kit that installs in just a few hours. Mike

Nope. $2,000-2,500 for the Turbo Kit. That’s a lot cheaper than stepping up to either the L3301 or L3901. And, I personally wouldn’t consider either of those options. Because if I’m stepping up, I’m buying a Grand L or MX5400. Mike

We're currently waiting for the PTO dyno results to determine actual HP and improvements. A couple members have over 100 hours on their Turbo setups. You can check out the thread here; https://www.orangetractortalks.com/forums/threads/l2501-modifications.48059/ I'm currently in discussion...

There should be a couple Turbo kit options coming out for the L2501 relatively soon. That could be a good option to boost the power of your current tractor rather than buying a larger machine. Mike

Congrats! That’s a heck of a Tractor! Great choice! Mike

^^^^^ Good to know! Mike

During my research I considered looking at Altoz figuring the tracks would offer great traction on my steep slopes and hillsides. However, the closest dealer was hundreds of miles away and didn’t have have any inventory available. I ended up purchasing the Cub Cadet Pro Z 560 w/ steering wheel...

In your case, I’d buy a SCUT with a 60” MMM. It’ll do everything you need it to do and hold it’s value over a long period of time if you decide to go in a different direction sometime in the future. Mike

Considering all other posts (wisdom and recommendations)...and the description of your property and tasks...I’d start my tractor search with the Kubota Grand L series. Mike

Thanks for the update and feedback! Mike

Congrats Willy! I’m glad you finally got your tractor! Looks great! Put it to work and I look forward to your feedback as the hours pile up. Moke

Cost is definitely a factor. In addition, height of the tractor. Heck, I’d have either a L3560 or MX5400 if I didn’t mind spending another $10K and if the ROP height would allow the tractor to fit in my garage. Mike

Congratulations on the B2601. It’s a great tractor and it’ll serve you well. Mike

Thanks for the review! I'm looking to buy a 520 once they become more available in my area. I'll be checking your thread for any updates. Mike

Does your wife remove the loader when she mows? Mike

You can’t go wrong with either of the tractors you’re considering. They are both great tractors. However, in that price range, with the size of your property, I’d also seriously consider the L2501. Mike

For diesel, I use Stanadyne For gasoline, I use Sta-Bil Mike

It’s gonna be an ugly crash when it happens...especially for those that paid the inflated prices on those used vehicles. Mike

My ZT is amazing on steep slopes and hillsides...I wouldn’t own anything else for my property...

In today’s market, you can easily get close to or more than you paid new. That was my experience with my B2601 w/ 50 hours I sold recently. Mike

Yep, dealer assembly. The tractors get shipped in crates and the dealer assembles most of the tractor including wheels/tires and accessories. Mike

If you’re not in a hurry, I’d wait. The overall quality of the BB ZTR w/ Kawasaki engine is worth the premium. And, if you’re spending that much, get what you want. I’ve personally never been happy with the big box store options. Mike