any Orange to Green converts?

[randyvl]

I am looking for an orange to green convert to give me thoughts on buying a JD rather than Kubota. Why did you do it?

I am torn between a JD 2520 (or possiblly even a 3120) w/ FEL and MMM and Kub 3030 w/ FEL and MMM. Cost is not the issue.

90% use will be for mowing 3 acres.

I am leaning towards the 3030 over the 2520 because of HP; 3 spd Hydro etc. But I like the lines/look of the 2520 better. My mind is telling me to go orange, but my heart is saying Green.

Is there really an advantage of the 3spd Kub over the 2 spd JD?


I don't need the size of the 3120 but I might look at it. Any problems with tracks in yard b/c of weight?

any thoughts would help to make my mind thing like my heart.

 

[jcmseven]

Randyvl,

Sorry I cannot help out here, as I think JD needs a three range small framed compact to fully compete with Kubota. I can say from those with whom I have talked, the JD 2520 is a pretty stout machine, and although looks are highly subjective, it is pretty apparent to me JD did try to make the 2520 and 2320 stylish machines. Some folks do not care about style in a tractor, but I would--especially if paying a premium for such a machine. I would have to say that between a 2520 and 3030 the Kubota might be the better choice. You may wish seriously to consider a 3120 or 3320 though. They are a real step up and are not much more money. They are larger, but not by that much and still tread very softly on softer ground. I would go with a 3000 series JD machine and not look back--if cost truly is not an issue.

John M

 

[plastikosmd]

i started with a b7100, and wasnt even gonna look at a JD. my plan was to go for the 3030 open/with loader. after looking at the capacities...it wasnt a big enough of a step up for me. then came the L2800/3400. this is the max as far as size i wanted to go..but was still a bit unsure...then ran across an article here about the 3400/vs the 3320. the 3320 had all i was looking for in a machine the size of the 3400. if i still wanted to go orange..for what i wanted..i would have to again step up to a grand L...but that was physically too big of a machine for me (3400/3320 already pushing it.) i went with the jd 3320, had a great dealer (unlike my kubota dealer) in the end, i couldnt be happier. as far as the smaller machines 2520/3030, they both look great, and i would have to drive them both to decide/and check specs. what i learned in this process (my first new tractor purchase) 1)have a good dealer 2)models between brands, are not always exactly comparable (so test drive and figure out what you need) 3) TBN is a great resource i'm sure you will be happy with either machine!

 

[JSR LLS]

I cross shopped my 2320 against the B7610 and also looked hard at the B2630. All are nice machines. I just felt more comfortable on the Deere. The Kubotas felt tippy with a high seating position. That could be just me. I also liked some of the features of the Deere over the Kubota (B7610). The B2630 eliminated the feature comparison as it has the features I preferred. Also, I liked the drive over deck of the Deere. I think you have to step up to a 72" deck in the Kubota to get drive over ability. As for the difference in transmission ranges, this is my first CUT, so I don't know what I'm missing (a third range)?So, I went green because of: MMM convenience, comfort, closeness of dealer to my house. Good Luck

 

[sunnyside360]

I am looking for an orange to green convert to give me thoughts on buying a JD rather than Kubota. Why did you do it?

I am torn between a JD 2520 (or possiblly even a 3120) w/ FEL and MMM and Kub 3030 w/ FEL and MMM. Cost is not the issue.

90% use will be for mowing 3 acres.

I am leaning towards the 3030 over the 2520 because of HP; 3 spd Hydro etc. But I like the lines/look of the 2520 better. My mind is telling me to go orange, but my heart is saying Green.

Is there really an advantage of the 3spd Kub over the 2 spd JD?


I don't need the size of the 3120 but I might look at it. Any problems with tracks in yard b/c of weight?

any thoughts would help to make my mind thing like my heart.

I went thru this same dilemma one year ago. I wanted/needed a cab because of my allergies to primarily mow 5 acres of lawn and clear snow on about 1000 ft of driveway in the winter. It narrowed down to Kubota B3030HSDC and JD 3520 w/cab. Drove and priced them both and wound up going with the JD 3720 (more hp than needed) because dealer had this on the lot and gave a huge discount. Incidentally, the JD 3000 series has three ranges. Given there was not much difference in money, I went with the JD because it was much quieter, less vibration, more ergonomic, nicer fit & finish, more hp.
I have the R4 tires (loaded) and they do not damage the lawn and has adequate traction for snow removal.
I'm not knocking Kubota as they have quality equipment also -- I know because I've owned five Kubota's over the past 35 years and still own one of the larger tractors (M8200 w/cab).
Just my 2 cents -- good luck.

 

[Deadman]

If you want the "Little things", then buy the Deere. If you can handle little things that aren't perfect then I'm sure the Orange one would do. I went Green because I was just more at home on the 2520. Everything works so smooth and I just had to have it.

Orange ones are nice too, but I'll speak for most of the 2520 crowd and say that a 3 speed tranny would be nice, but the way Kubotas got their 3 ranges geared, the 2520 will do as much or more work with its 2 ranges than they can with their 3.

Drive BOTH and you'll come home with Green!

 

[bxowner]

Look up my entries for the past few months by clicking on my handle... you'll see the story I've relayed a number of times in different forums... I went with the JD 2320 over the B7610 because I felt there were a number of significant shortcomings on the Kubota. I attributed most of them to a design that was at least 7 years old. Now that Kubota has the new line of "B" series, the playing field has been leveled quite a bit (at least on paper - haven't seen them in person yet). Their price is right, the power is equivalent, the 3-speed range is intriguing. Still, plenty of differences between the manufacturers...

I'd agree with what many have to say... drive them. Don't rely on a bare tractor either - try one with a loader if you're getting a loader. See if the dealer has a hill to drive up - and try it out in each range. You'll quickly see if something bothers you.

For me, the only real shortcoming on my 2320 is the hydraulics on the loader - which I noticed the very moment I test drove. Coming from a BX Kubota, it's very very slow. Not enough to discourage me from buying the tractor, but I'll admit bothers me when I'm trying to clear my driveway of snow in a jiffy. I'm told this isn't an issue on either the 2520 or the 3xxx series.

 

[Engine66]

I don't want to offend any orange owners, but my experience with a Grand L3830 was not pleasant. I had some reliability issues including a complete HST failure fixed under warranty for $3,000+ at 50 hours...unknown reason. I treated it well, but then the rear 3PH began it's funky chicken at 75 hours, but disco was out, so another warranty repair was in order....a metal shaving was to blame. Thirdly, the loader control detente valve froze every winter rendering my loader bucket only partially usable...unacceptable. The dealer said Kubotas fix was to drill holes in the base of the detente valve to allow "condensation" to escape...I did that and then had hydro fluid slowly leaking from the holes. Nice. Then the 3PH arms were always hitting my BH90 subframe...bent them a few times...I'll take blame...but why is the subframe where it can interfere with the 3PH arms? Also, ran the unit in low range almost exclusively due to my property characteristics. Gets frustrating moving in slow motion all the time. Motor stalled all the time when loader was full unless I was in high rpm...too much drama for some simple tractor work.

Anyway, went to local JD dealer, bought a 2305 for smaller chores and immediately noticed how much more R&D went into the functions. The feel, motor, loader removal, MMM removal, etc. all so easy. Checked out the larger frames...3000 & 4000 series and decided to go for a 4720 w/BH448. JD loader, bucket, and BH all come off and on easier than Kubota...and JD uses a pins for tool-less removal/installation. The Kubota required a variety of wrenches, sockets, etc. There was a day when I could not get the pins back into the Kubota BH90 due to some uneven ground settling between uses. It took me almost 3 hours to get it back on...made me dread the whole operation. Also, paint fade and plastic dash faded into oblivion on the Kubota...that was a disappointment. In Kubotas defense, I will say the BH90 was one heck of a BH and the loader was strong.

Now I have a 4720...loader comes on/off easy, bucket comes on/off easy, and BH448 comes on/off easy with pins. Loadmatch keeps the motor from stalling and I operate in midrange most of the time and get things done much faster. I understand these are different machines and frame sizes...but whoa...JD just simply makes my work easier and faster. Some may say the 4720 is overkill for my needs and is good for rear PTO power...however, the HP on the 4720 lets me fly up hills, carry loads, and get work done faster so I have extra time to play with my kids.

On the JD downside, I would say the BH448 has a little more play in the operation and it's greater hydraulic flow demands greater attention and focus. The loader has more restrictive roll-back...bottom line...I spent a bundle to trade up to a 4720, but no regrets except I should have done this in the first place. Don't focus on numbers/stats...just operate them all and find who the best dealer is who can support you.

To all the Kubota owners, I say this with respect...people have strong opinions about their tractors just like trucks. Kubota makes great products...they would not be around and own most of the market in their classes if they did not...my experience is contrary...I absolutely love the feel, operation, simplicity of changing functions, etc. of the JD. Enough said. Whatever tractor you have, enjoy the ride.

 

[exiled]

Randyvl, I dont own either yet so I'm not giving you advice I'm just thinking out load. I've been studing tractors for 2 yrs now. I've looked at every make and model put out. Even Kioti and Ag king. Here again every brand has its ups and downs its a personual thing about which downs will bother you the worst. Still just thinking out load, I would'nt see myself putting the money into a 2520 or any 20 series for that matter. I would get the 5103. Simple put for the possible uses. You can do alot of work on 3 acres. The Landscaping busness has raised the 20 series models price just about out of touch for home owners. If I was **** bent on a 20 series it would be in the 4000 range. All the prices I've found the 5103 is priced awhole lot better and the special offerings is alot better. I know that they have different models for everybodys different needs like I said I'm just thinking out load.

 

[strokerduster]

not trying to stir up anything either but i have owned both b3030 and 2520. i bought the b3030/la403/72''mmm a couple years ago. i bought it mainly based on rep, 4 cyl, and 30 hp. used it to maintain and mow my 7 acre yard. i never really bonded with it and sold it with less than 100 hours on it. hated the seat, it vibrated and rattled, the loader was crooked and after an hours use, my bum right leg would hurt from going back and forth on the treadle. it was powerful and performed flawlessly. when i sold it, the paint had already started to fade and it was stored inside. it was promoted as a premium tractor and at this i believe it failed. i had a 2210 prior to the 3030 and had always been happy with it, wished i had it back. when the 2520 came out i bought one and to me it is much better quality. i would buy 2520 in a minute.