2038R

[SDT]

Sometime, in the future I plan to replace my Kubota B3350 ROPS with either the forthcoming LX3310 or, perhaps, a JD2038R. The 3310 is the replacement for the 3350 and nearly identical in size and HP while the 2038R is about 500 Lbs. heavier and has about three more PTO HP but appears to be suitable for my needs.

My barn has usually been filled with vintage Fords and Kubotas, the only JD being the restored 730DWES that I sold about twenty years ago, and I am not current regarding the small JD machines.

Yesterday, I stopped at a nearby JD dealer ship to see what JD offered that I might find interesting, and found the 2038R most appealing. I picked up a brochure, which I have read.

Anyone have experience with the 2038R? Pros? Cons?

I would use it mostly with a 5' rough cut mower, front FEL mounted snow plow and, perhaps a 72" MMM.

SDT

 

[dodge man]

I have a 2025r. The 2038r is a bigger and more powerful version of mine. They have a fairly powerful loader to. Just my opinion but the one advantage of JD is the auto connect deck. I have it on mine and it makes taking the mower deck off and on easier. A 2038r would probably power a 6 foot brush hog also. Another option is a 2032r. Same tractor with a slightly larger engine but no turbo, otherwise they are identical tractors.

 

[Diggin It]

I know you're not a big fan, but you should at least look at these:

MT235HE-35HP – LS Tractor USA

XR3135C-35HP – LS Tractor USA



They both show more 3pt lift capacity and hydraulic flow, if the numbers can be compared accurately.

 

[SDT]

I know you're not a big fan, but you should at least look at these:

MT235HE-35HP – LS Tractor USA

XR3135C-35HP – LS Tractor USA



They both show more 3pt lift capacity and hydraulic flow, if the numbers can be compared accurately.

I'll limit my choices to either the Kubota LX3310 or the JD 2038R, and would do so even if there was an LS dealer anywhere nearby.

SDT

 

[jgayman]

Anyone have experience with the 2038R? Pros? Cons?

SDT

One possible disadvantage of the Gen2 2-series (2032R/2038R) can be the Command Cut control mechanism for the mid-mount mower. It is a very complex computer controlled linear actuator mechanism that is quite prone to failure and the replacement actuator alone is $1200. There have already been quite a few reported failures. While this may not be a big deal while the tractor is still under warranty, eventually that warranty will run out. I still don't understand why JD made something as simple as a deck lift mechanism so complicated.

The diagram below shows just the rear section of the auto-connect / lift mechanism.

 

[SDT]

I was intrigued by that system but there was no tractor on the lot with a MMM installed so I did not get to see it.

Sounds great on paper, though.

SDT

 

[SDT]

I try to avoid changing implements and keep several tractors of various sizes to avoid doing so (among other things).

I usually change implements twice each year: FELS off and mowers on in the spring and the reverse in the fall.

I've never had a small tractor with an auto connect deck so am unfamiliar with the compromises associated with such. How long does it take you to install and remove the auto connect deck used with your 2025R, assuming a good concrete floor? Are there compromises associated with the auto connect system, e.g., ground clearance, etc?

SDT

 

[dodge man]

I would say there is no compromise with the auto connect. When I owned a Kubota BX I avoided taking the deck off, even though sometimes I should have doing end loader work. With the JD I would say the deck goes on and comes off in less than 5 minutes. Its not hands free, there are two pins to pull and two latches to trip, but they are an easy reach. Its a very slick system. It actually works better on a rough surface, if the surface is two slick, the deck just slides instead of going on or off.

Another advantage to the JD is the bucket quick connect. This is an opinion thing though on my part. There is just two hooks on the bucket and two pins. Its very simple and doesn't add weight like a skid steer system. You can usually get implements set up for the JD system, but they may or may not cost more. You can also get a skid steer quick connect system to install on the JD end loader if you wanted. The disadvantage to it would be if you had a lot of skid steer implements already on hand. With my tractor the only thing I have other than the bucket is a set of forks.

 

[turbo36]

I have a 2038r with the quick connect mower, so far no problems and my dealer has not had any failures of the actuator yet. As others have stated change the deck on rough ground/grass or as I do put 3 pieces of rubber mat under the deck if taking off on pavement. By far this is my favorite tractor, a great combination of compact size, good weight for traction and good lifting power.