Any thing on Branson Tractors?

[loydmeeks]

Local dealer has pretty good pricing on Branson tractors. I know nothing about them. Any one here?

 

[Bentbarz]

My dad has a 3510 and likes it. He uses it mostly for mowing and some FEL work. He has had it for several years, maybe 7 or so, with only one problem. The original dealer was absolutely horrible and as a result lost his dealership. Because of this the closest dealer is quite a ways a way, so that is a bit of a negative. The problem that he has had within is the fuel shut off solenoid. He has replaced two or more of these and finally gave up. He rigged up a cable to turn the fuel off/on. This jut means that the key doesn't shut the engine off, like all diesel tractors were some years back. If I had a closer dealer I would consider purchasing one.

Good luck!
Travis

 

[MtnViewRanch]

They are a good machine for the price. My biggest concern would be the dealer. How long has he been a tractor dealer and does the dealer happen to sell any other makes, or just Branson?

There is a Branson forum, maybe check there.

Good luck.

 

[EddieWalker]

I've had a Century tractor for ten years now, and it's the same thing as the Branson. Kind of like Chevy and GMC. They then went to just Branson. I like the tractor and haven't had any issues with it except the fuel pump. I've also broke a few things that where my fault. My dealer is pretty good, but struggles with dealing with getting parts. He's gone to finding alternative sources for some items because of price and delays. The fuel pump is an aftermarket one that they sell for half the price of a new replacement one. It works great, so no complaints.

They kind of shot themselves in the foot with too many dealers, and not requiring them to have an ability to support or service what they sold. My dealer was very frustrated with all the competiton that he had from them popping up all over the place. They didn't do any of the sevice, and he did. He got paid for it, but it was annoying to him to have to service what the guy down the road sold. Most of those guys didn't last, but others kept starting up. It gave the name a bad rep and from what I've heard, quite a bit of frustration in those who own Centrury and Branson tractors.

My dealer doesn't even sell Branson anymore, but still supports them with parts. If I was to do it again, and I'm sure I will one day, I'd look at Kubota or Deere. Having a dealer that is going to be there and a company that has a proven track record is worth paying a little more money.

Eddie

 

[lmorris2002]

I have a Century 3045 and am looking for tie rods. Apparently this is a bad design and they snap easily. Anyone having same issues or know where I can get some? Thanks.

 

[DavesTractor]

You can get the Century tie rod ends from any Branson dealer. Or order the kit that updates the top plates and tie rod ends to the larger units and you are good to go for a long time. Most dealers stock these as they broke more frequently than they should have. I've never seen an upgraded one fail.

 

[lmorris2002]

Thanks for the info. We have tried several dealers and they are out of stock because this seems to be a common problem. We'll keep looking.

 

[larryjhall]

I Just found this Thread-- but if it is of any value still to anyone: I own a small timber farm. I purchased a Branson 3510i with a Backhoe and Loader in 2008. It is a very sturdy, reliable and Heavy duty Machine for the price I paid. You get more for the money as well: It has just a little more of everything over an equal Kubota , John Deer, Mahindra and many others regarding basic functions over all weight and features including the factory loader capacities and the backhoe capabilities. One main feature is Branson has two Hydraulic pumps (one for stering and one for attchments). I work the crap out of this tractor moving tree trunks, brush, clearing, digging huge pit-, ponds, and many other things. I never have used the PTO however, So far so good. The only drawback I see thus far is Dealers are dropping off like flies. There are still many out there and I can still get attention on parts that I Broke (my Fault) but starting to get worrried about the dealer thing.

 

[Muleskinner Jim]

I Just found this Thread-- but if it is of any value still to anyone: I own a small timber farm. I purchased a Branson 3510i with a Backhoe and Loader in 2008. It is a very sturdy, reliable and Heavy duty Machine for the price I paid. You get more for the money as well: It has just a little more of everything over an equal Kubota , John Deer, Mahindra and many others regarding basic functions over all weight and features including the factory loader capacities and the backhoe capabilities. One main feature is Branson has two Hydraulic pumps (one for stering and one for attchments). I work the crap out of this tractor moving tree trunks, brush, clearing, digging huge pit-, ponds, and many other things. I never have used the PTO however, So far so good. The only drawback I see thus far is Dealers are dropping off like flies. There are still many out there and I can still get attention on parts that I Broke (my Fault) but starting to get worrried about the dealer thing.

Larry,

How many hours do you have now on your 3510h? Who was your original dealer for your Branson tractor, was it (G.W.) Anderson Tractor Sales on CR 305 in Carthage, TX? If so, are they not a Branson dealer any longer or are they going out of business? I was told recently by a Branson Territory Rep. that Anderson Tractor may be scaling back their operation some, but he didn't say anything about them going out of business. I am interested in who the current Branson dealers are in East TX because I am considering buying a Branson 3510h or a 4720h soon, and will be relocating to my place over near Jacksonville, TX. I do know that there is a dealer in Lindale that just started selling the Branson Tractors. The name is Choppers Outdoor Pwr. & Equip. on So. Main st. in Lindale, TX.

 

[larryjhall]

Hi Jim,
I have ~250 hours on it (3510I). I bought it from ACM Tractor Sales in San Marcos Texas. The dealer was very accommodating. My Branson has never been in the dealer for repair however, I have been able to just do the stuff my self. I also have a home in Georgetown Texas (Near Austin) and I stay there when not working in Carthage, so I just drove down to ACM, ordered it and and picked it up. I was staying in Georgetown when I decide to buy a tractor so I researched to make sure there was a dealer in Carthage just in-case I had problems and found Anderson Tractor in Carthage Texas. So I figured they could help me if I needed it. Anderson Still sells Branson because I go up HWY 59 on my way to Marshall quite often and they have two sitting out on their lot now. Saw them there just a couple weeks ago. They do seem to have a smaller inventory lately though. I have only been in the Anderson Dealer once to get help on a problem with my backhoe hyd adjustment and buy a hydraulic fitting. They were OK in my opinion. However, I have been buying all my maintenance parts on-line from these guys: Big Red's Equipment Texas Lawn & Power Equipment Dealer | Tractor Packages, Bad Boy, Echo, Hustler, Ariens, Branson, Gravely, Kioti, Koyker, Wallenstein & More! They are in Dallas. I smashed the entire front Grill lights and reflectors and radiator when moving a tree. They have treated me with the utmost service and respect... They have serious Branson fever for sure. I have never dealt with the dealer in Lindale but thank you for the tip. I will look them up.

 

[Muleskinner Jim]

Thanks Larry, I have been studying tractor specs for about one and a half months now. I am about to go cross-eyed from studying the specs. I have pretty decided to go for a Branson 3510h. It has good overall weight (just under 3700 lbs.) and the little 3 cyl. Cummins designed Kukje engine should drive it pretty well. I have always wanted a hydrostat tractor after using my neighbors 3520 JD with a loader. It is just so fast and flexible when running a loader. I would really rather have the newer model 3520R with a hydro, but I got word from the factory thru a dealer that they won't have the 3520R available with a hydro until approx Aug. of 2014. I don't think I can wait that long. I've got projects to do with a loader, that my little JD 850 w/ MFWD just won't do. I was comparing the Branson parts lists between the 3510h & the 4720h models. These are the only two hydro models that Branson offers right now. It looks like they use the same part number# (Eaton) hydrostatic trans/pump in both models. Heck, I figure if they can warranty the drive train for 4 yrs. with a hydro in a 47 h.p. tractor, it should hold up in a 35 h.p. tractor. I've got the little Deere John all cleaned and painted up with new green and yellow paint. Now if just the right person would come along and I could turn it, I think I would be ready to try on some 'Branson Red' paint for a change.

 

[DavesTractor]

It's true that the 35HP models are very under-stressed. I mostly sell Mahindra, but the 3510HST Branson is a really nice tractor and priced well for what basically is a 47HP unit with a smaller engine. You will enjoy the extra weight and stability over the JD850, and of course HST will spoil you.

 

[Winlock Mike]

Im new here. I'm looking at getting a Branson 3120R. Is it on the same frame as the 3510? Are they good? Going to get a backhoe and a 12" post hole auger.

 

[DavesTractor]

The 3120R is a good machine. Overbuilt, very heavy duty. My only issue with the 3120R is that it may be just a little heavy for it's HP. But generally that isn't a problem unless you are pulling a mower and mowing hilly areas where the mower consumes a lot of power and the engine struggles to then move a 5000 lb unit up a hill with what power remains. But that is solved by just going down a gear or two.

The weight is handy for loader work and ground engaging work.

Look at the HST as well in the 35HP size, I prefer it myself.

 

[ibtallwalt]

Local dealer has pretty good pricing on Branson tractors. I know nothing about them. Any one here?

Just bought the 2800 (not hydrostat) and have owned my 9n for a long while, and love it...but, I can't believe the Branson...it's quiet, it pulls the drag and gannon with ease, it's easy to use, and will turn in it's own length...I love it. It's a bit smaller than my N, but, works effortlessly where the N is a bit more work to drive and use.

I have looked it over, from top to bottom, and am impressed with the detail and the finish...some said to watch out for the finish quality on imports..but, this one is well assembled and so far not even a loose nut...

The engine is a Cummins, 1.1 Liter, turbo charged engine...that was a big selling point to me too.

I do know, I'm not as tired after doing some of the same chores with the Branson, as I was with the N...love the power steering and the FWD... really allows me to do some things that the N won't because of wheel slippage in gravel and loose dirt.

Looked at all the colors...all way more expensivde and I couldn't justify the extra money as there weren't any glarring differences that would account for it.

I found the Branson and settled on it. Found Big Red's Equipment in Granbury, Texas to be a company and persons that are ready to sell you a fine compact or larger tractor in a package deal or stand alone.. look em up on the net.. you won't be dissapointed. Talk to Jody, he'll do right by you.

Walter

 

[foreman Etexas]

Larry,

How many hours do you have now on your 3510h? Who was your original dealer for your Branson tractor, was it (G.W.) Anderson Tractor Sales on CR 305 in Carthage, TX? If so, are they not a Branson dealer any longer or are they going out of business? I was told recently by a Branson Territory Rep. that Anderson Tractor may be scaling back their operation some, but he didn't say anything about them going out of business. I am interested in who the current Branson dealers are in East TX because I am considering buying a Branson 3510h or a 4720h soon, and will be relocating to my place over near Jacksonville, TX. I do know that there is a dealer in Lindale that just started selling the Branson Tractors. The name is Choppers Outdoor Pwr. & Equip. on So. Main st. in Lindale, TX.

I do believe there is a small Branson Mom and Pop type place just outside Elkhart headed towards Grapeland on 287. They have been selling tractors there for years not many only seen 2 or 3,its basically at there house kinda thing.

 

[jtygoku]

Just bought the 2800 (not hydrostat) and have owned my 9n for a long while, and love it...but, I can't believe the Branson...it's quiet, it pulls the drag and gannon with ease, it's easy to use, and will turn in it's own length...I love it. It's a bit smaller than my N, but, works effortlessly where the N is a bit more work to drive and use.

I have looked it over, from top to bottom, and am impressed with the detail and the finish...some said to watch out for the finish quality on imports..but, this one is well assembled and so far not even a loose nut...

The engine is a Cummins, 1.1 Liter, turbo charged engine...that was a big selling point to me too.

I do know, I'm not as tired after doing some of the same chores with the Branson, as I was with the N...love the power steering and the FWD... really allows me to do some things that the N won't because of wheel slippage in gravel and loose dirt.

Looked at all the colors...all way more expensivde and I couldn't justify the extra money as there weren't any glarring differences that would account for it.

I found the Branson and settled on it. Found Big Red's Equipment in Granbury, Texas to be a company and persons that are ready to sell you a fine compact or larger tractor in a package deal or stand alone.. look em up on the net.. you won't be dissapointed. Talk to Jody, he'll do right by you.

Walter

I'll second the thumbs up for Big Red's although I dealt with Tim. I ended up with a Kioti DK40SE. Was worried about conducting the transaction long distance but the sale and delivery went smopthly and the price was considerably lower than any I could get quoted locally. I have a previous thread in the Kioti forum that share my buying experience in a little more detail.

 

[Reg]

In addition to what has already been posted;
They are built by Kukje in South Korea.
This company also contract builds JDs and (I think) Montana.
I have a 42 horse non turbo (err, "naturally aspirated") one.
When American Jawa (the importer who branded them as "Century") folded
I was able to pick up a set of turf tires and rims for cheap at their warehouse in Harrisburg, PA
On a subsequent trip I got the 8 1/2 ft Amerequip back hoe.
Kinda handy having an empty (but for some manure) horse trailer following the truck around (-:

They were around for a few years, importing Korean scooters the last I knew, but the warehouse
had quite a lot of Kukje/Century/Branson & Zetor parts and accessories. Probably 3 or 4 tractors
that were partly picked apart for parts.

BTW, the back hoe IS user installable using nothing more than hand tools - and can be lifted out of a horse trailer with the FEL.
I may have used the pallet forks, but don't remember if I had them then or not.

No parts problems here, I have used Foskett in Woodstock, VT and ????? not remembering them right now but I think they are in Troy NH.
Valentine's maybe ? a name like that.

EDIT:
That is VALENTI'S tractor in Troy, NH. - - had to look it up.
:END EDIT

re the tie rod ends;
There is a fairly hefty upgrade kit available, but my dealer advised to just be sure to keep the ball joint nuts TIGHT and all will be well - - I have and it has been.
Apparently they break under shock load if there is looseness, at least that has been my dealer's experience, i.e. every one that they have done has had loose ball joint nuts.

 

[larryjhall]

Hi Jim-- just getting back to this thread-- I purchased my Branson from ACM Tractor in San Marcos Texas. They were most accommodating and got me the tractor I wanted. They say they will still order one. However, I believe they are no longer a Branson Dealer. As you can read in my previous post this is getting worry-some to me as the dealers fall off. At this time I would recommend Big Red's Equipment in Granbury, Texas.

 

[larryjhall]

For anyone thinking on the Branson purchase; as I am a proud owner -- I recommend the Hydro-static (HST) version. The clutch on my 3510i has put my nee in agony after 5-6 hours of working with it numerous times. If I had it to do over I would not get the shuttle/shift with clutch. The spring tension in that thing is strong as a horse and you to will feel it later after working with this machine-- no doubt.