Challenger MT265B

[havenlane]

Does anyone have any experience with this model/manufacturer. I know that it is really a Caterpillar/Massey/Agco/Iseki..... fer cryin' out loud...how many hands are in the pot these days... /forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif

But, does anyone have any input as to quality of this machine? It sure looks good, and seems to have all of the bells & whistles. The real big draw to me at this point is the dealer is 10 mins from my place, and they seem real nice...we'll see how nice when the bid comes back. /forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif

The other options are TYM 330HST, and Mahindra 2810/3510. Anyone care to give comparisons? Good/Bad experiences?

Thanks in advance,
Havenlane

 

[JerryG]

I have a MF 1440. I like it a lot better than the MF 1250 that I had before. If you have any specific questions feel free to let me know. In most areas, the Cat version is more expensive than the Massey.

 

[havenlane]

Thanks for replying back. Mostly, I just want to get an idea about any weaknesses or trouble points to this line. I just don't know much about the reputation of the Iseki tractors. I mean, it looks like this thing is about as tough a BadBoy as I have been seeing. The dealer has offered about 18k for tractor,loader,box-blade,forks w/ quick-attach,and filled R-4s. I think it sounds pretty reasonable. What do you all think?

thanks,
Havenlane

 

[Chipperman]

havenlane
I think you will find the Mahindra 2810/3510HST(made by TYM) and the TYM 330HST are the same tractor except for Dadong engine in the Mahindra and Kubota in the TYM. TYM may have a better Warranty. Also they (TYM) just built a new warehouse some ware in WA or OR.
Happy Tractoring
Chipperman /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif

 

[JerryG]

That doesn't sound like a bad price, although I haven't checked prices for a while. I don't know of any problems on this tractor. I work mine, really work it on a farm everyday and have had zero problems. MF has been selling Iseki since about 1992 or a little before. The MT265B would be equivalent to a MF 1250, 1433 or a 1533. When Cat first came on line with Iseki tractors they were always one model behind MF. If MF was selling a 1433, Cat was selling a 1250. I don't know if is still that way or not. I don't have a Cat dealer close.

 

[JerryG]

Is Mahindra still using Iseki rear axles, transmissions and dashes?

 

[havenlane]

I guess I didn't know Mahindra ever was using Iseki components, though I shouldn't be suprised I guess.

Yes, I have heard that TYM is building a warehouse in Redmond,OR, and I agree that they are using great stuff, but my nearest dealer is over an hour away from where I live, and the Cat dealer is very close. There are 6 Cat dealers within an hour's drive, and only the one TYM dealer within 200mi. My friends tell me I am suffering from an anxiety complex... I don't know, I just want to not have to worry... /forums/images/graemlins/crazy.gif

Havenlane

 

[JerryG]

If the Cat tractor fits the bill for what you like and the dealer seems to be good, go for it.

 

[loaderbob]

Nothing beats having the dealer cloose, especially during your warranty period. You can't go wrong with 6 dealers around you. I would shop them all and get the best deal.

Good Luck!
Bob

 

[spb1971]

This will help clear things up. Iseki has supplied Massey Ferguson since 1991 and have built very reliable products. The MT265B is equivalent to the new Massey Ferguson 1533, it is not the same as the 1433. As for Mahindra, Iseki sold off some old tooling years ago that was similar to the 1100/1200 Massey Ferguson series components (rear end housing, axle). These are not exactly the same as the ones Massey Ferguson used but in appearance they are similar.

 

[Boomerang1]

The MT265 is the same as the 1433. I looked both the 1433 and MT 265 in 2004 and they were the same. Both have a 16x16 or a hydro. The 1533 has a 12x12. The 1533 hood and fenders look like they are made of plastic instead of steal. The 1533 has round head lights. The 1433 and MT265 have square head lights. The dash looks like it has more plastic also. I would have purchased the MT265 because are Cat dealer has an excellent reputation, But it was it was a few thousand $$ more than the DX33 I bought.

 

[havenlane]

I actually went ahead and purchased the MT265 about a week & a half ago, after much investigating of local dealers and brands. I began to realize that the price "ballpark" was about the same for this size tractor, all similarly appointed(box blade, quick-attach forks). So, I started to compare dealers: attitude, willingness to educate, willingness to demo the products, longevity in the area,...you get the idea. All things being equal, I began to realize that the brand that I had first discounted as "too expensive" turned out to be the best choice for price, usability, features, and dealer service (they are just down the road from me...), and I might add, the only dealer who offered upfront to bring the product out to my property, and let me have at it for the weekend. I thought that really set the apart, and ultimately this was one of the things that made me feel comfortable with buying from them. I am not a brand person per se, but I must say that I sure like being a "cat-man" now! /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif
Havenlane

 

[spb1971]

The MT265 "B" is a newer version and is the equivalent to the Massey Ferguson 1500 Series. The MT265 (No letter designation) is equivalent to a 1400 Series. Both 1400 and 1500 series have steel sheet metal.