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^^^^ Having a steering wheel really helps traction, control and stability when mowing on hills and steep areas.

Yep. I read all of those reviews too, good and bad. While all were helpful, I’m glad I didn’t allow the poor reviews to influence my decision. The demo sealed the deal. Mike

I demo’d a couple standard lap-bar ZT’s before trying out a steering wheel equipped Cub Cadet on my property and I totally agree. The steering wheel turns just as sharp and is just as maneuverable as the lap-bar setup. I still can’t believe I can make turns while mowing around trees on some of...

I was skeptical about Cub Cadet during my research. I looked at lots and lots of alternatives (Kubota, Bad Boy, Altoz, JD, etc). The steering wheel option promising better control, traction and stability is what persuaded me to purchase this mower. However, after experiencing the performance...

Not yet. The L2501 is pretty stable on my hillsides (with tire ballast). However, if I move forward with spacers sometime in the future, I’ll likely go with 3”. Mike

I really think you need to demo some alternative tractors on your property first, before trading and purchasing another. Mike

2" Mike

Many times agreed. I thought the MX was HUGE at the dealership and then realized when I got home with my L, the MX wouldn't have been too big. However, in my case, I didn't have a place to store a larger tractor and didn't want to spend MX money....yet. Mike

I recently purchased a 2021 Pro Z 560 S KW. It is a fantastic mower! It’s built like a tank, great quality, delivers an amazing cut and is incredibly good on my steep hills and hillsides. I couldn’t ask for a better mower! I highly recommend it! Mike

It’s a great tractor and worth the wait if you can’t find a good pre-owned example. I just sold my B2601 w/ 50 hours. It had everything you’re looking for minus the BH. It’s a crazy market right now, happy hunting. Mike

I just sold my B2601. I had it advertised in CL and Marketplace. The buyer found it on CL, however, I had another guy that wanted to come out at the same time from Marketplace. Had I waited just one more day, I would have sold it for more than my listing price. I had lots of interest. The...

Nice! Congrats! Mike

I have no experience with the alternative bar but, the BXpanded Piranha toothbar is fantastic. I highly recommend it. Mike

^^^^ After posting this thread and getting excellent responses, I re-read my manual and it does state to engage the PTO at half throttle and run the mower at full throttle. I’m following the manual’s instruction. However, it is interesting how some machines engage the PTO at half throttle and...

I did. Washington state. Paid tax on both tractors and two lawnmowers. I sure wish I hadn’t...thousands of dollars wasted! Mike

I purchased my 2021 Kubota B2601 last year, owned it for 7 months, and sold it this week for what I originally paid new, minus sales tax. Had I waited just another 2 days, I would have received it all back, maybe a bit more with the offers that were coming in, after I had already agreed on a...

I visited my local Kubota dealer today to discuss a minor hydraulic leak on my new L2501 and pick up some supplies. While I was there I wanted to check out their current inventory on the lot. They had 2 Grand L’s, 3 standard L’s and 6 BX tractors (I don’t know if any, or all were pre-sold)...

I would have really, really liked a Diesel engine with my choice but, I opted for a Cub Cadet Pro Z 560 S KW. I needed a larger fuel tank and the Pro Z can carry up to 15 gallons. It’s very comfortable to operate and it’s great on my slopes and steep hills on my property. Plus, it’s built...

Paint and loader (Bobcat has a proprietary loader). Both are great tractors, buy whichever you can get a better deal on. Mike

I don’t either, however, in this market, getting a dealer discount without manufacturer incentives, isn’t likely. It’s not impossible but I wish you the best of luck! Mike

Beeser, you need to demo some tractors on your property before you even consider a replacement. I can’t fathom that your new tractor can’t perform the work you’re expecting assuming it’s running as advertised and you operating it as designed. It’s time to demo some alternative tractors on your...

Are you in low gear with 4wd engaged? Is it bogging down and not moving? Or, is it just too slow? Mike

Gentlemen, thank you! Yes, the engine manual states to run the engine at full throttle, I just wanted to confirm that this is the way to go. I appreciate all the feedback! Thanks again, Mike

I recently purchased a new Cub Cadet Pro Z 560 S KW and I’m trying to figure out what RPM or throttle amount I should be applying when I mow. The ZT is equipped with the 852cc Kawasaki FX850v engine. Anybody have an idea of what RPM and/or throttle application I should be using for mowing...

I installed Bora 2” steel spacers on my B2601. They’re fantastic and easy to install. I highly recommend them. Mike

^^^^ I’m assuming that’s the garden tractor you’ve been using, correct? You haven’t purchased a replacement yet, right? Mike

^^^^ I believe they've been making these since 2017. Mike

Here are some pictures...

The steering wheel controls both the front and rear wheels for turning. The front wheels turn a full 90 degrees and automatically manages the rear wheels just like conventional ZT's. I believe the steering wheel models turn just as sharp as the lap and bar setups. I'll post a pic when I get a...

That dude is "rolling coal" in his turbo'd ZD326, lol It appears he needs to do some extra 'tuning'! Mike

^^^^ That thing is a beast! The 972 is huge, lol! I'm glad to hear it's serving you well. Mike

Definitely call the dealer and describe your findings and symptoms...even if the steering is ‘normal’ under those conditions, I wouldn’t be pleased with all the items they missed during assembly/inspection. You just spent some good money on that tractor and it should have been delivered in...

Great to hear! Thanks for posting! And, I agree, definitely built like a tank. These machines don’t seem to be very popular on the forums? Mike

Good to know. Personally, I’m totally fine with the trade-off and comprise of simplicity vs. complexity and cost. Mike

That was unexpectedly quick...the new mower has arrived! Mike

Jeff9366 always shares wise advice! I haven’t found one post I disagree with. And, he is correct here too. For work, tractor weight is king! However, a smaller tractor can benefit from a turbo by increasing the PTO HP allowing the tractor owner to use larger attachments/Implements like, for...

^^^^ That’s why I purchased the L2501 over other options. Mike

^^^^^ That was precisely my experience with bar and lap zero turns, however, the steering wheel equipped Cub Cadet Pro Z is better and faster than my tractor. And, I can side mow the steep parts...within reason. Almost anything can mow straight up and down with reasonable traction but, this ZT...

^^^^ That's awesome! I had read about the Gizmow! You have two classic mowers on that trailer! Mike

Absolutely! I would have purchased a Kubota F2690 mower if it was in the budget! But, alas, my better half said no! LOL! Mike

I haven't had any previous success on the steep hills on my property with Zero Turn mowers. My last attempt was with my bosses Bad Boy Renegade mower. The Renegade did an amazing job on the flat surfaces with amazing speed and a beautiful cut. However, on the steep stuff, the mower struggled...

I don't see why it wouldn't work assuming you have the skills, knowledge and cash to perform the modification. There have been several guys that have successfully turbo'd their L2501's and have logged 100's of trouble free hours. If you have the means, go for it! Mike

There are tons of ZT options. Have you checked the local dealers in your area? Im currently considering Kubota, eXmark, Cub Cadet and Bad Boy. Mike

Have you considered Yanmar? (I’m posting this for Willy, just in case he misses this thread;)) Mike

I’m not very familiar with either tractor but, resale value would be better with the JD if you ever sell it. The Bobcat is a rebranded Kioti tractor. And, the Kioti is a great tractor. Mike

^^^^ I've used mine to clear several acres over the past couple years with the mulching blade. It was starting to feel weak. The tune-up and made it run like new again. Mike

Had to do the same with mine this year. It’s well worth it, it’s running like a champ! Mike

Bobcat is a rebadged Kioti with a proprietary Bobcat loader. Mike

I have an L2501 and it’s a great tractor, which I highly recommend. Definitely get quotes on each. In my area the prices were virtually the same with JD being the most expensive, followed by Kubota, Kioti and Massey Ferguson. Mike

^^^^ The Grand L3560 is an awesome tractor! I’m doing my best to justify one in my future! I’m thinking once my garage is built, my better half will allow it’s purchase.... I hope, lol Mike

I use a large 15 gallon fuel jug and a hand crank manual pump. Works great and is much better than lifting 5 gallon jugs! Mike

Congrats! I've heard those are excellent machines! Mike

I too don't necessarily understand the MMM hate on the forum. My B2601 w/ 60" MMM does a great job. I have no complaints on the performance. However, the MMM can be a pain to remove and reinstall if you have to do it a lot and they are a pretty expensive attachment. Edit: IMHO, FEL & SSQA...

^^^^ Yes. That's why I prefer and suggest the sub-compact/small compact tractor platform when compared to the "garden" tractor in general. There will always be a compromise when you are looking for a single machine solution and two machines can become an expensive alternative. Mike

I think when you begin exploring the cost difference between the machines you’ll find the better value in a sub-compact / small compact tractor. Sure, the X500/X700 will do what you need now, but, a tractor will do those tasks and many others for not much more money. I personally believe, in...

^^^^ The market and tractor prices have changed since ‘15. Id suggest visiting Kubota’s website and build an L2501 as close to that tractor as possible to get a comparable 2021 price and negotiate from there. I’m thinking $30K is much more reasonable but, sea2summit is correct, it is a sellers...

^^^^ Many times agreed. Mike

Mowing is mostly done in mid-range....if you want a good cut....and don't want to get beat up doing it... Mike

That depends on if and how much mowing you do with your machine...that 3 range transmission is a time saver in most cases... Mike

Much agreed. I’m on 5 acres of undeveloped forest and never owning land before, I was originally planning to buy a sub-compact, however neighbor’s, friends, coworkers and the dealer suggested larger, so I purchased a B2601 (it has been a fantastic tractor and experience) as a compromise. As...

You’ll probably be good with a smaller compact (like the B2601) for now, but if your plans change, like mine did, you’ll be buying a larger tractor...and that is why I own a B2601 and an L2501. Mike

The cut quality of the B2601 w/60" MMM is very good and my B2601 is my dedicated mower. It might not be as good as the fabricated decks on ZT mowers but, its pretty darn good. Mike

^^^^ My boss's new Bad Boy ZT just slips and slides trying to go up my hills. I'm sure if it had better tires it may work better. Mike

Pretty much agreed. For me, it was laziness (dealing with the hassle of removing and reinstalling the MMM) that lead to my 2 machine purchase, one tractor for mowing (B2601) and another for tractor work (L2501). Having the MMM attached while attempting other work besides mowing, is just...

Yep, my L2501 is noisy too but, so is my B2601. Mike

^^^^ That’s understandable, but...that’s a dealer issue, not a ‘brand’ issue. I wouldn’t do business with a dealer like that too. Plus, it saved you money and that’s never a bad thing if you’re happy with the product and outcome. Mike

If you’re financing, try to determine your needs/requirements and add those to the tractor now, as it will save you money down the road. I’m not sure your budget but, if you’re considering the L4701, I’d suggest looking at the MX5400 or Grand L for only a bit more money. Mike

I'm currently considering adding another wood shed (12'x24') or build a lean to off my current 12'x20' shed for the L2501. Mike

^^^^ Great looking tractor! Congratulations! Mike

^^^^ Good to know, thank you! When mowing on a hill, do you raise the Flail on the 3-pt when backing up the hill and then lower it to mow down hill? I'm liking this option more and more. Mike

I've been contemplating the purchase of a Flail mower for quite some time. I mow roughly 3 acres mixed hills and flat lands. Does anybody mow hills with their flail? How does it perform and compare to other options? Mike

So you don't feel so bad...basically the same thing happened to me (to a lesser extent) on my brand-new L2501. As I was bringing up the QH, I saw that it was touching the rear light bezels. I adjusted the top link but, I didn't account for any side-to-side movement on the 3pt hitch. Well...

Nothing wrong with sharing your opinion on tractors, that’s what the forum is for. Plus, I’ve watched some of your Yanmar videos and they were informative. However, I’d just like your suggestions to mirror your experience operating the machines you recommend. I’m not sure which machines, how...

Yep, shop elsewhere. Mike

I mow steep slopes (similar to yours) and hills with my B2601. My B2601 has 2” steel Bora spacers and ballast tires for increased stability. I highly recommend both! When I mow, I remove all attachments (aside from the 60” MMM). No FEL, no rear attachment. I mow the steep slopes straight...

I'm not sure of your budget but, you may want to look at the MX6000 for increased loader capacity. Mike

This doesn't seem normal. I've never operated an L3901 but, even my L2501 will spin the tires in medium gear when engaging a dirt pile or removing stumps with the bucket. In 4wd and low gear, my L2501 has no problem spinning the wheels and digging 4 deep holes up to the rim. Mike

^^^^ Many times agreed! I have the R14's on both my B2601 and the L2501. I really really like these tires. They have tons of traction in all situations (including snow) and don't destroy the turf (although, they will mark up wet turf...especially in 4wd). I've been very happy with them. Mike

I'm definitely happy with this tractor. It has been performing wonderfully over the past couple weeks. I pulled roughly 20 small stumps from the ground yesterday will just the 54" bucket w/tooth bar. There was only one stump (12 inch diameter) I couldn't get out of the ground yesterday and...

Congrats! Great looking tractor! May it serve you well for many, many years! Mike

Honestly, mowing can be pretty dangerous for both the operator and anyone else around the machine while operating. I remember reading a story of a woman that was struck in the neck with an object (stone/stick) while her husband was mowing. She almost lost her life. I always make sure everyone...

I believe this practice is fairly common in the tractor world and I have experienced it on a couple of occasions while tractor shopping. My dealer absorbs those fees so the buyer doesn't pay any extra for 0% financing. Mike

The Kubota will allow you to mow in reverse with the MMM. Due to my steep hills and terrain, I mow in reverse ALL-THE-TIME. I mow up, then down my hills in reverse. Yes, having to press a stupid button on the dash while mowing and looking backwards sucked on my previous JD. Nope, the PTO...

You ain't bothering anybody...I don't think. Just wanted to make sure you knew that this thread is 19 years old. I'm sure the OP has already purchased a tractor (or two) or decided they didn't need one. Mike

^^^^ Willy seems to enjoy reviving incredibly old threads and sharing videos on the brand/model tractor he recently purchased. He’s done this in numerous threads.... I’m not even sure he realizes it... Mike

My two Tractors (B2601 & L2501) are simple mechanical diesel engines without any additional components or devices to control emissions. Both my "completely stock" 2020 & 2021 model year tractors "smoke" just as much, or perhaps more, than my neighbor's 30 year old tractor. So, if in fact my...

You can’t go wrong with any of the options you’re considering. All three will do what you need and do it reliably. If I was in your shoes, I’d go with the Kubota. Why because I have two (I’m biased), they’re great tractors and have great resale...especially in my area. Mike

Good question. In my case, the Kubota L series consists of the L2501, L3301 and L3901. The only difference between these tractors are the engines (hydraulics and tractor weights are basically the same), cost and complexity. The L3901 can support many larger 3-Point attachments because of the...

When comparing a Kubota L vs BX? I'd say yes, the BX will be easier to fit into tighter spots compared to your L4310. For example, my B series didn't have an issue navigating through some trees on my forested property and my L (with the loader attached) couldn't get through the same area. I...

My L2501 compliments my B2601 very well too. Yes, you can really feel that additional torque! Mike

I too was concerned about the joystick placement comparing it to my B2601 (which is also right by the seat and comfortable to reach). But, the joystick on the L2501 hasn't been an issue and is surprisingly comfortable to use. I moved dirt for over 3 hours yesterday with the tractor. Not once...

Precisely! Well, you gotta pay to play. So, “if” I decide to mess with anything, I’m fully aware that any potential failure is on me. Just like any of the vehicles I’ve modified in the past. I’m okay with that. The search for a PTO/Tractor dyno testing facility continues... Mike

My tractors aren’t equipped with emissions or life saving pollution controls. Mike

^^^^ Unless you have a 25HP tractor and you need some more power from your PTO to run a wood chipper or flail mower. I agree, tractor weight is hugely important, but there are some reasons why someone would want to boost power. Mike

Ultimately, yes, I would buy the same tractors I have now. However, after getting my newest tractor (L2501) home, I could have gone larger. If cost wasn’t a factor, a Grand L or MX would be awesome! Mike

I use my Kubota B2601 with a 60” MMM. It’s not as fast as a ZT, nor does it cut as perfectly, but it does a good job, safely, on my “hilly” property....with the 2” wheel spacers and ballast tires. Mike

^^^^ I just haven’t heard, read or scene anyone strapping a tractor to a dyno. I’d love to hear some first hand experience. I’ll definitely inquire with my dealer regarding a PTO/Dyno for the tractor. If I start playing...I want to verify results. Mike

I’m on 5 forested acres with flat areas, hills and slopes that I mow and maintain. I use my B2601 to mow and maintain my property. I bought the B2601 as my “one and only” solution. I mow my steep slopes with the FEL removed and I installed 2” spacers to increase stability. The machine...

No, you’re not. As long as you have more tasks to perform besides mowing, why not buy a machine that can do more than one specific task safely. Mike

Absolutely, can’t have one without the other....if you want positive results. Mike

^^^^ I’m familiar with many types of automotive dyno’s. I used them for decades testing my street and race vehicles. However, forgive my ignorance, can a tractor be ran on a such a dyno? Mike

True. I don't think anybody is specifically arguing this point. It's been verified that 3 major components failed. Injectors, Injection pump and ECU. It doesn't appear that the dealer just randomly threw parts at this machine. However, since fuel was ruled out as a culprit, it would...

I realize this (I've seen the videos). However, who's got a PTO dyno? My point is that none of these guys that are tinkering with their tractors has that equipment to test them and verify their results. I can't blame them, I too don't know where to find one...at least in my area? Perhaps...

^^^^ True. Here I am with 3 hours on my tractor worrying about hooking up my wood chipper and running the new machine at PTO speeds, LOL. I'd be happy for the 12 hours... However, the wood chipper is gonna get hooked up anyway...and I'm gonna run the chipper because...I have work to do! Mike

^^^^ Yep, agreed. Considering that several parts failed, at the same time, without any reason (verified by the Dealer and Kubota Corp), I feel that Kubota should have accepted "some" responsibility for the repair, as a "Goodwill Warranty". I fully understand that the tractor is out of...

^^^^ I’ve read several threads where guys have done one, or a combination of; increasing the RPM, bumping the injection timing and/or increasing the fuel on the L2501. Now, in theory, these changes should increase the power output of the L2501’s engine. However, it appears nobody has any means...

^^^^ I imagine AK could request those parts returned to him. Kubota shouldn't keep those parts...they didn't pay for them! Mike

I'd call the dealer and ask about the hours since you didn't know about them prior to delivery. However, as others have said, 12 hours ain't nothing to be concerned about as long as everything else on the tractor appears new. Mike

This is a very unfortunate outcome. I am very sorry. I feel that Kubota should have assumed "some" responsibility for the failure. This outcome will be factored in my future purchase decisions and perhaps alternative brands will become more attractive down the road. Mike

I’d love to get a definitive answer to your question. I’ve read that the L2501 simply has a detuned L3400 engine to the only thing they share is the engine block. Mike

^^^^ That'll definitely help you out! Mike

If you’re looking for something slightly larger than the BX, the B2301/B2601 would be great. Nothing wrong with Kioti or other brands/suggestions for your planned usage. Mike

Yep, I’d contact the selling dealer. Are there any visual signs of leaks anywhere on axle? Mike

I'm biased towards Orange. I simply just prefer the Kubota product, philosophy and implements over the Deere. However, I don't think you can go wrong with either option...both will have great resale if you ever have to sell/downgrade/upgrade. Mike

Congrats! You’re gonna enjoy both the trailer and especially, the BX1880! Mike

I saw that Bad Boy was making tractors today, lol Rebadged Branson? That’s what they appear to be. Mike

Sounds like you got a great price! I have the R14's on both my L2501 and B2601. Great tire! They have really good traction on all surfaces and conditions, including snow. Mike

Thank you! I was curious about the seat belt. I mow my flat areas in 2WD and the hills in 4WD using my B2601 with the FEL removed. Mike

^^^^ I'm assuming the operator survived? Did he have his seat belt on? I'm always in 4WD in those situations. Scary as hell! Mike

^^^^ That's how I try to do it... but, I still have experienced a couple blockages. I probably have nearly 20hrs on my chipper. Sharpening the blades is probably a good idea. Mike

^^^^ Yep, that's happened to me on a couple occasions. However, I think it is because I'm feeding bad stuff sometimes. I toss in branches with fresh leaves, needles, twigs...rotten wood...all kinds of good stuff. Mine seems to get plugged up with fir tree branches and soggy rotten wood which...

Good to know. I too had stopped engaging the parking brake on the L2501 because like you, you really don't need it 99% of the time. However, I just started putting back on so I can train myself to stomp the brakes before moving the tractor. If I can get the muscle memory down, it'll become...

That's good to know. The L2501 seems to have enough torque to move the tractor that I don't even realize it is on, until I start to do some work. On the B2601, you can tell almost immediately. Mike

It sounds like the L2501 would be great for your application, since you don’t have any requirements for the PTO. I recently purchased a L2501. I too was considering the L3301 and L3901 (among other tractors). One of my considerations was the emissions components...I didn’t want the complexity...

^^^^ I’ll have to give that a try. Will the cement blocks be tall enough to mimic the dimensions of the loader and do you believe the loader will be stable enough on the cement blocks for storage purposes? Mike

I’m sorry it wasn’t a favorable outcome but, thanks for posting your experience. I thinking the best way to go will be buying the SSQA plate from eBay and mounting that plate to an object that will allow the loader to sit properly. Mike

Definitely enjoying the L2501. It’s doing all the heavy lifting the B2601 couldn’t quite manage. Mike

Alright, I have made a "rookie" mistake, twice! I'm leaving the parking brake on! Luckily, not for very long but, I'm having a hard time getting used to the brake system on the right side. I'm so used to my B2601 (brake assembly on the left side) that I'm just failing to check the brake on...

^^^^ Shockingly, that too was my experience with Kioti... the comparable Kioti was more expensive than Kubota in my area. Interesting enough, I wasn’t originally considering Kioti. I was looking at JD, MF and Kubota. The owner of the company I work for has a Kioti. She loves it. Once she...

This was also my experience with MF. Their customer service is very responsive and gets you in touch with your local dealer very quickly. Ultimately, I went orange but, the MF is a great tractor and I will consider them in the future. Mike

^^^^ Many times agreed. I will take the outcome of this situation into consideration on future purchases. Mike

That thing is a beast! Awesome tractor! Congratulations! Mike

^^^^ It's well worth the trouble! Mike

Honestly, I haven't driven the Yanmar but, I really like the MF1723/1725. You can't go wrong with either tractor just make sure that is the size tractor you need for the job you have planned. Mike

^^^^ Awesome! Congratulations! Post some pics when it arrives! Mike

^^^^ Looks good! Mike

Congrats on your purchase! I recently received my new L2501 and luckily got in just before the 3% price increase. The L2501 is a great tractor! You're gonna love it! Plus, I agree. The Dealers in my area aren't motivated to discount much off MSRP. Why? Because supply is so low. I was...

^^^^ Thanks for the update. And, I'm glad you have your tractor back and it is performing as expected. I truly hope that the second fuel samples reach Kubota and you get a favorable decision on your "Good Will Warranty" Claim. I'm pulling for you and would like Kubota to step up and cover...

Thank you! My original concern regarding the L2501 seat was the seat cushioning and lack of armrests. Plus, my research on the L2501 before I purchased revealed that a lot of L2501 owners complain about the seat and it was one item that owners consistently talked about upgrading. So, that...

HST. Engine sounds good and healthy. Mike

Alright, weather hasn’t been cooperating but, I’ve finally had the opportunity to put a couple hours on the L2501. Here are some of my observations... First, like some have mentioned previously in this thread, once I got the tractor off the truck, the tractor feels smaller than it did at the...

The R14's which I have on both my tractors are an excellent "hybrid" choice for turf, snow and general traction (however, they can still damage turf when wet). Mike

^^^^ I have a B2601, great tractor! I use mine for mowing, lawn care and light property maintenance. More weight is generally a good thing to have depending on your plans. According to the plans you have listed, I don't think the extra weight of the Kioti will cause you any issues. Mike

^^^^ Agreed! Those look pretty nice! Hadn’t seen them before. I wasn’t planning on floor mats but, these appear promising. Price and contact info would be great. Mike

^^^^ Yes, the 54” bucket is wider than the front wheel spacing. I’ll post up a picture soon. Mike

Congrats! Mike

I've been in the automotive business for over 19 years. Most of that experience has been at the dealer level, in parts and service. You are correct that the automotive parts and service don't care where the business comes from, I sure didn't! I wanted the business regardless of where the...

^^^^ Absolutely! 100% agreed! That's why the 54" w/tooth bar is on the L2501! The L2501 is ready for some digging work...weather permitting, lol Mike

Swapped buckets between the two tractors. Here’s a pic of the B2601 with a 66” bucket :ROFLMAO:

^^^^ Thank you! It’s the 66” light material. Although, I would have preferred a 60”. Mike

^^^^ Thank you! Very true! Mike

^^^^ Then the 60” is really the only way to go. Mike

^^^^ It’s been a while since I’ve looked it up but, if you do a search, you’ll find some tire ballast weight calculators online. Mike

The L2501 and B2601... Mike

Yeah, be careful. I’ve had a couple scares with the loader attached on the steep hills on my property. Ballast the rear tires and wheel spacers will help! Mike

No sleep, just fill the tires :cool: Mike

^^^^ Much agreed. And good points on the BH. I don't own one, but, if I did, it wouldn't be on very often. My box blade and wood chipper are almost always in use. Mike

I'm not sure about that... I seem to recall some stories about folks trying to get their tractors serviced/repaired at dealers where they weren't purchased from and the dealer either delayed service or flat refused to work on them. Hopefully some other members can elaborate on some particular...

You're on a "hilly" property, I'd recommend filling the tires, period. It'll help with traction and stability. I wouldn't worry about the extra weight when removing and reinstalling them, it's all about technique. Mike

^^^^ That looks promising! The one benefit of the metal mulching blade...is the ability to mulch the material on the ground once it lands. It really cleans things up really well. Mike

Absolutely. I have a push-trimmer (7hp) with heavy string (and a blade attachment). The heavy string can’t handle the vines and gets destroyed by the brush. Even the blade attachment for the push trimmer can’t handle it. The 131R with the mulching blade does it all! I’ll have to post up...

^^^^ Me too. Mike

^^^^ Agreed. We have plenty of rocks in the soil and I get plenty of sparks and premature wear on my blades but, this blade annihilates brush. As unnerving as it is, I’m willing to deal with the compromise. Mike

^^^^ Yes, blade tips are turned down and chew up anything that’s cut by the main blades. Amazing cutter. Mike

^^^^ Thanks! Mike

The Blade works exceptionally well. However, I’ve named it “the spinning blade of death”. I haven’t done any property damage slinging rocks, but, I’ve taken rocks to my arms and legs and it’s like being shot by a high-power pellet/bb gun. It’ll cut small rocks in half and easily take down any...

^^^^ Trimmer. Just using the 131R Kombi. Here’s my arsenal;

Here’s an example of what it can do;

^^^^ Here’s the mulching blade;

^^^^ That's definitely what I'm hoping. Mike

^^^^ I'll have to take some pics of the blade and work it performs. That'll be the best way to describe it. I'll follow up with you soon when I can get some time to take some photos. Mike

The smallest I'd suggest for your application would be a B2601, but the B2650/LX2610 would probably be better for the size of your properties. As mentioned above, the sub-compacts only have 2-range HST. Mike

^^^^ Will do. I have the R14's on my B2601 and I really like them. Great traction on all surfaces, including snow. They're not bad on the lawn...as long as it is dry. They'll leave impressions if wet. I'll post up my impression on the L2501 R14's after some seat time. Unfortunately, I...

^^^^ The new L2501 has arrived!!! Mike

^^^^ I use the Stihl files too. Easy to use and they work very well. Mike

I wouldn’t trade my mulching brush cutter blade for anything on my 131R. It’s the best attachment I have and has cleared a TON of brush on my property. Still more to go....Luckily, I haven’t hit any windows or done any property damage. Hell, my neighbor has been so impressed with my progress...

^^^^ It's that type of innovation and problem solving I'm lacking!!! Mike

^^^^ That's my understanding. I'm sure it won't disappoint. I'm hoping to have pictures posted on Saturday once it gets delivered. Mike

^^^^ Yep, definitely recommend toothbar and spacers. I have both on my B2601. Mike

Congratulations! Mike

^^^^ That's a very nice tractor. You're going to like it. I tested out the CG1725 before deciding on the B2601 (slightly larger tractor). Just make sure the "size" is right for you and your requirements. It'll definitely be great in the woods, just make sure that it can perform the larger...

One size up, like a Kubota B2301/B2601 would likely work best for your situation. I have a hilly property and the B2601 with 2" wheel spacers has proven to be a really capable and stable machine. Mike

I don’t know much about RK but, they appear to have a attractive pricing and competitive products. I don’t see anything wrong there and if you’re gonna receive better service and support there, I wouldn’t hesitate to move forward with their product. I have JD, Kubota, MF, Bobcat, Branson and...

^^^^ Impressive list of tractors there. Did any dealer seem better than another? Good dealer support can be hard to find. Mike

Well, I did buy 2 new tractors in 6 months, lol Mike

^^^^ Nothing surprising there. I’m interested in your feedback regarding the snow and loader work. Mike

My new L2501 is gonna be delivered next Saturday. Looking forward to it! Mike

I have R14’s on my B2601 (and incoming L2501). They have offered tons of traction in all my applications. Great traction on steep hills and also in snow. I really like them. However, in wet turf, you have to be careful, they’ll leave some impressions and marks in the soil if you’re not careful

Thanks for posting pics! Looks awesome! Please post your impressions/comparison when you get some seat time. Mike

No replies? I’m sure some members have swapped seats...that’s probably my biggest fault with these tractors. Mike

^^^^ They look really good. That’s surprising the rim sticks out further than the tire..interesting... Can’t wait to see them mounted! Mike

^^^^ PICS!!!! Can't wait to see them! Mike

^^^^ That could be entirely true! My dealer absorbs those 'additional' 0% financing fees so the customer doesn't pay anymore for the longer term. I was able to get 0% for 84 months and a $1,750 discount off MSRP on my recent purchase. And...reading through all the posts...it just shows you...