B3030 Help with Decision

[dedgett]

Hello All,

I'm trying to decide which tractor is best for my needs. I own an 8 acre parcel of land of which I'll be mowing about 4 acres. The property is on the water so I also have some clean up to do of my waterfront and a bit of brush clearing. I understand that the bx series should do a better job of cutting my lawn. I am pretty particular about my grass and I'm just questioning if the 3030 could do a nice job of cutting this as it doesn't have a suspended deck like the bx does.

I'm leaning towards the 3030 as it has more HP and can run larger implements but I'd appreciate any advice that you guys can give.

Thanks in advance!

 

[johnk]

I don't do a whole lot of mowing but 4 acres is quite a bit. Plus you have another 4 acres to deal with. In my opinion I would go with the bigger tractor. If thendealer was close maybe it's possible to bring out the bx and the 3030 and see what you prefer. You'll have the tractor a loooong time so get the right one.

 

[DiezNutz]

I am pretty particular about my grass and I'm just questioning if the 3030 could do a nice job of cutting this as it doesn't have a suspended deck like the bx does.

Are you planning to do anything besides mow...i.e., what other implements do you think you'll be using and how often? Give us something to convince us you need a tractor and wouldn't be better off with a nice commercial ZTR?

How picky are you? If you're Better Homes and Gardens picky, then you're already barking up the wrong tree. B3030 cuts nice, but can never match a ZTR with an 18K fpm blade tip speed. Tractor tires and the deck gauge wheels leave tracks in the grass (from pushing it down), but they're usually gone in a couple of days. Other than that I don't think it cuts much different from a BX.

Some make a big deal out of suspended over ground contact... I have both types and personally prefer the way the B3030 MMM follows the ground contours, which makes the grass look more even. Also my suspended deck will scalp in a few areas under conditions that the MMM won't no matter what (both have AS rollers adjusted correctly). The only drawback I see is the temporary tracks.

 

[Nik]

I have a BX23 and I would much prefer a B3030 for the brush clearing. My BX 23 and Brushcutter do only a fair job of cutting brush. This may be due to its low ground clearance smashing down the weeds and giving a poor cut.

I am thinking of upgrading to a B3030. I miss position control hitch of the larger tractor. I like the HST pedal of the B3030 over the BX23. My pedal has more resistance and often sticks when i remove foot pressure.

I mow with a Exmark 54" ZTR and it leaves an excellent cut and is faster than any tractor setup I have used in the past. The suspension seat also makes it comfortable.

My vote would be for the B3030 over the BX . If you can afford it , the ZTR for mowing and get the B3030 for tractor work.

 

[dedgett]

Thanks for the input gentlemen. Ok, here's a bit more info. My home has just been finished construction on this 8 acre parcel of land. I've had some larger gear (excavators and dozers) in to grade and clear my land. They've done about 75% of the real heavy work and cleared a nice parcel (3 acres) directly around the perimeter of the house.

I've installed irrigation systems on these three acres which feed out of the lake which has been fantastic in aiding the grass to grow as it's been very dry up here. So my immediate concern is getting something to use to cut this 3+ acres now. I'm getting tired of the 4-5 hours on my old Sears riding lawn mower (I've had to cut twice now and that's enough) - I eventually plant to cut about 5 acres so this isn't even an option with that machine... it could be used for trimming though.

Also, I want to continue with the clearing of the land outside of this graded area. The land is clear of any major hurdles but it has a lot of scrub brush and vegetation growing up which I"d like to knock down and eventually turn into lawn or some sort of finished area. This would involve bush hogging and then some sort of leveling (box blade??). There is also an area by the water that has quite a few trees which we'd like to make a walking trail through. This may involve moving a few trees but really more bushogging and then putting some stone down for a path medium as it is a bit wet there as the land is low (therefore, moving gravel or stone with loader work).

In terms of implements, mostly I see use for a box blade for grading, bush hog, post hole auger (digging holes for planting some trees), and that's really about it other than perhaps a rear finishing mower and maybe a broadcast spreader for fertilizer.

I don't have an endless budget as this house is stretching my resources a bit so I'd like to get a versatile machine that could assist in all these tasks. I spoke to a local dealer who seems to think that the BX-23 is a solid machine and one that they sell frequently to people for estate property management. The way I thinking now is that maybe the B3030 is better as it'll give me the horses and other goodies (position control) that'll help get the property cleaned up. Perhaps in a year or two I could trade in for a smaller tractor. I'm not super fanatical about my grass... I just like to have a nicely groomed lawn.

Anyway, any further input would be appreciated as I have to make a decision soon as cutting grass with the sears 42" cut isn't Fun.

Thanks!

 

[DiezNutz]

I'd say go with the B3030 then... obviously it's going to be the more capable of the two machines, especially when it comes to the BB and bush hogging. The PC 3PH will be quite handy for the BB. My guess is you'll never trade it in on a BX ... downsizing isn't allowed here, as it may actually cause the Earth to spin off its axis

You left FEL off your list of implements, although it was implied. And you're leaning toward a RFM instead of a MMM? There was a recent hot thread about what size hog to run on a B3030, if you haven't seen it.

 

[riptides]

Anyway, any further input would be appreciated as I have to make a decision soon as cutting grass with the sears 42" cut isn't Fun.

Well, you can always get a nice rear finishing mower for that class B. I ran a six RFM and it gave a really nice cut.

But to tell you the truth, I still have a collection of lawn mowers. rider mowers, and tractors to maintain my grass. Each piece has a unique purpose.
Manicure, Lawn, Pasture, Brush, forest trails.... etc. etc.

the tractor does a nice job of filling in, now and then....

-Mike Z.

 

[hazmat]

The B3030 is light enough to make a decent lawn mower (and is the "primary" summer use of my B3030).

Turfs are easier on the lawn, but many have had success being careful with R4s. In either case, you'll want to let the yard dry out after substaintial rainfall.

 

[The Gardener]

Perhaps in a year or two I could trade in for a smaller tractor.

You could very well be the first in the history of TBN to trade down, or, at the very least, the first to admit doing so should that ever come to pass. Furthermore, if anyone successfully trades down and expresses their delight with such a decision, I anticipate an increase in work load for psychiatrists nation wide - and in Canada.

I second the vote to buy a B3030. You'll appreciate the additional hp and the larger size of the rear implements that can be operated with its PTO. And, you can add a cab to the B3030 at a later date which, in my view, is a wonderful option to have available should A/C or heat become desired comforts for longer periods in the tractor seat.

Based on your property and your project descriptions, I would also suggest that you rent a boxblade and a post hole digger. If you do not own an open trailer, I'd suggest that you direct the savings [rent vs purchase] toward the purchase of a 2-axle, open trailer. You can then transport rental items from and to the rental location, and you'll have the trailer for endless other uses.

For what it's worth, we had a tractor that was comparable to the B2630 in size. We ran it constantly for 7+ years as we developed our acreage [nearest to the house]. It was fantastic to have. It seemed to be involved in every project. We finally sold that tractor because it was a 2WD model, and the further we ranged from the house, the more this limitation got exposed.

I offer this as a similar concern that you might encounter if you choose the smaller tractor as a one tractor solution. In our experience on our 15 acres, the obstacles and the projects get bigger as you range further from the house. And, that calls for more hp. In our case, it called for 4WD, but I also felt that our 25hp and FEL hydraulics were being taxed as we attempted to tackle larger obstacles.

Another consideration is a two tractor solution. It can be expensive, but it can also be done over time. Buy one and see how far it takes you.

You could start with a BX24. My next door neighbor owns one. It is amazing. You'd get the full benefits of a TLB. The backhoe is a tool that you will never stop finding uses for. In fact, it will end your need for a post hole digger. The BX24 will easily handle a lot of projects that you have on your list. If and when you find that the BX24 is over matched, you can add an L3400 or the L4400. That will give you a powerful, second tractor to take on those bigger projects. The same attachments can be rented for the L-series tractor.

BTW, I also cut 3.5 +/- acres with a 42" Sears mower. The BX24 offers a MMM that is larger. Most important, you can drive it three times as fast as the Sears mower. Your mowing needs will be solved.

Best of Luck!
The Gardener

 

[BAYOUBENGAL]

Hello All,

I'm trying to decide which tractor is best for my needs. I own an 8 acre parcel of land of which I'll be mowing about 4 acres. The property is on the water so I also have some clean up to do of my waterfront and a bit of brush clearing. I understand that the bx series should do a better job of cutting my lawn. I am pretty particular about my grass and I'm just questioning if the 3030 could do a nice job of cutting this as it doesn't have a suspended deck like the bx does.

I'm leaning towards the 3030 as it has more HP and can run larger implements but I'd appreciate any advice that you guys can give.

Thanks in advance!

My input would be the 3030 but with turf instead of R4s. My R4s are great but they are a bit harsh on my yard - hard packed dirt and southern hay grass. Certainly not manicured lawn. I bought a smaller unit (B7610) than I really needed and it cost me a buck or two to fix it.........

 

[BizDoc]

Seems to be a lot of talk about the B3030. I too am considering a B3030. Just sold my NH TC21D today because I wanted more horses, and please don't anyone trade down, I'm sure that would have something to do with physics and cause some sort of axis destabilization. Anyway, I have been going back and forth between the B3030hsc and the JD 3320 cab. However I was speaking with the woods company today regarding a quick hitch for the FEL and they said they don't make one because the B3030 is considered a light unit. I want to do snow plowing with a quick attach blade in the comfort of a heated cab, but the woods rep said that the B3030 was too light of a tractor and hence lighter FEL which would be easily damaged by plowing snow and hitting something unseen in the snow. I also saw somewhere else in the 40 million posts that someone felt the B3030 was a light unit. I just got rid of one unit that I felt was too small I don't want to make the same mistake again. When I was talking with the JD dealer he also felt the B3030 was a lighter unit and that the 3320 was more in line with the Grand L series.

I'm mowing 7.5 acres, plowing a 200 ft drive way, planning on doing some food plots, not sure about a BH but don't want to discount it. The Woods rep also said they do have a BH for a Cab 3030 but felt I would be better served with a heavier unit JD3320, Kubota L series, NH TC40DA due to the plowing and BH. He also said the 3030 is too light for front forks and that if I ever needed to use forks or like attachments in the future the 3030 is too light and won't lift them.

Would the MMM have to come off the 3030 to install a BH? I saw where it was posted that the BH has an undercarriage hookup.

I would really like to have the quick hitch for taking off the bucket and installing a plow blade.

 

[Toolguy]

I own a B3030 and I like it a lot. That being said, I do agree that it is a "light" tractor compared to the Grand Ls and the the JD3*20s. When I was tractor shopping 2 years ago I was deciding between the same two tractors as you are, less the cab. I ended up with the B3030 just because it was lighter than the the JD. I have 3.5 acres with 1.5 acres of finished lawn and lots of trees. I also plow snow. The B3030 is plenty for me. I felt that the JD was too big and heavy and not really good for the lawn. I still feel that I made the right choice. From what you say, I think the JD would have more upside advantages for you. It is a larger frame tractor and the 300 series loader is a bit more capable than the LA403 on the Kubota. Bigger is usually better if you can use it. The JDs are nice but I would also check out the new Grand Ls. The 40 series really has some nice features and there are several loader options available as well. Good luck and have fun shopping.

 

[BizDoc]

Thank you ToolGuy:

I thought I had this all worked out. I had visited the JD dealership a few weeks ago, with the intent of taking some green paint home, but left with a because the cost was so much more than the B3030, and at that time thought I had reached the second "Final Answer" (purchase the B3030) until I spoke with the Woods Company. I havn't priced the Grand L series yet or the TC40DA but I have to believe they're in the same price range as the 3320.

 

[Toolguy]

When I was shopping the price difference was about $2000-2500 more for the JD3320. I never did get down to an exact price on the JD because I decided it wasn't what I needed. What prices are you getting now?

Another option to consider is a L2800 or L3400. They are the next step up in size from a B3030. They are not deluxe models but seem to have all the features you would need.

 

[BCNU]

I agree with Toolguy, I would give the Grand L's a look. They have alot of nice features. http://www.kubota.com/f/products/grandl40/index.cfm
Good luck in whichever you buy.

 

[BizDoc]

I just left the NH dealer looking at their TC40DA with a Cab, FEL, Dozer Blade and Rear Finisher Mower. $36,000

Then priced a TC34DA with no Cab, FEL, MMM 72'', Dozer Blade. $28,000

The JD3320 with cab, FEL, Dozer Blade, MMM 72".
$28,650

Just called the Kubota dealer for a quote on a Grand L 3240 outfitted same as the JD3320. Will get quote on Monday.

 

[DiezNutz]

If you plan on mowing your lawn with the tractor, you shouldn't go any heavier than the B3030. Otherwise, no pressing reason not to upgrade size & weight to the GL3240 - you'll still get the "premium" features of the B3030 (and then some).

 

[Bob_Young]

Doc, it sounds like you want a tractor that's light on the lawn and heavy on the snow....plus comfortable all year round. 'Most anything you find will be a compromise and less than ideal at one or the other. The comfort part will make whatever you choose fairly expensive. I think the B3030 comes fairly close to your ideal, but, as you point out, is something less than a heavy duty unit. The smaller Grand Ls will be tough cookies, but beasts on the lawn.

Personally, I think you just sold the best solution to this dilemma. The TC21 for the lawn paired with a Grand L or an L3400 for the heavy work would've been ideal. As for the comfort.....wellll, that's where you tell the wife that you're willing to make sacrifices and endure hardship in order to have the right tool for each job.

It sounds like your machine will spend much more time mowing than moving snow, so that's a big point in favor of the B3030. Working on the basis of the B3030, then, it might be worth considering a snow blower over a front mounted blade. This will take advantage of the B3030's horsepower and not demand so much in the way of structural beef. If you get the cab, you'll have shelter from flying snow and wind and be able to work in comfort. With this approach, you still have to choose whether you want a front mount ($$$) or rear mount blower. Rear mount would let you retain use of your loader. I still think the B3030 is your best choice; but you may have to revisit the front blade idea....front blades are for 4WD pickups IMHO.
FWIW
Bob

 

[Tony_S]

For BizDoc,
Just to cloud the issue...you used the word "light" seven times in your post which made me think of the other orange tractor, which is not light, so I hear. Have you looked at a CK series tractor?
Of course, your lawn may suffer if soft & sensitive.

I don't own one of any flavor and hated to mention the other orange in an original orange thread....but I like livin' on the edge. Heh.


.02

Tony

 

[BizDoc]

Bob:

You're exactly right. I want the best of all worlds, and it's driving the Kubota guy crazy. I've been to see, and called, him so many times that I can hear him groan when he hears it's me. I just find it hard to believe that I'm the only one who wants this combination of things. The NH dealer said they have been trying to get NH to make a tractor like I'm looking for, and that he has lost several sales due to not having a smaller unit, i.e. a TC33DA, with a cab. I want this next tractor to be the last. I was hoping the TC21D was going to be it, however It didn't take long till I saw that I needed more HP. Not that it was a bad unit, not at all, quite to the contrary it was a great tractor. I don't have all that much ground, only 10 acres, but that's enough to get into bigger jobs than 21 horses will handle, even if they are self imposed. Thank you Bob.

Tony:

I only use the term "light" because that's what I have both read in some of the forums, been told from JD, NH, Woods, and even today Kubota. I want heavier arms with a quick attach, and if I ever want to lift loads larger than 800 lbs with palet forks, I'll need a bigger unit. but Yes I have looked at Kioti, in fact I was impressed with their units at the recent Pa Ag show. So I called the dealer from the show and was actually seriously considering the purchase of their 45 horse with a cab (as you're probably already aware the 45 is the smallest Kioti with a cab). It was a nice unit and the cost was about $27,500 with the cab and FEL with quick attach. The axels are very beefy and the loader lifts very high with a nice roll. I was close to being convinced until I found I couldn't get a MMM. they do make one but the dealer said he wouldn't sell me one because he felt the Kioti MMM units are of poor quality. We talked quite a bit about the Rear Finish Mower, but in the end I really like the MMM, I'm sure that's an entire forum of debate all of it's own because I have spoken with both sides on this issue and each side is passionate about their personal like, beit MMM or RFM, I quickly learned just to nod my head and listen on this topic. This is one of those issues that seems to crop up on every unit I look at, the MMM seems to limit the use of some other attachment due to the underbelly mounting system, which is used for multiple attachments. I really like the Idea of being able to load mow and drop the mower unit, but it makes the unit so long, and that extra length, seems to me, will make it hard to mow around trees that are somewhat close togeather. I also have a bank that crests to a road and am afraid of piiviting up the deck when cresting the top road, leaving the grass unmowed, or if it has the floating hinge then perhaps continuiously scalping when I go over the top. But detatching and moving a 6 foot MMM is a real chore. I better stop there I don't want to start a firestorm on mower decks.

Just love tractors, looking, riding, cleaning, talking about them.