compact/subcompact, what HP??

Bob_Skurka · Mar 14, 2004

Henro . . . <<<OFF THIS THREAD'S TOPIC BUT RELATED TO YOUR POST ABOUT THE 3PT HITCH ON THE SUB-COMPACTS>>> what if you put longer lower arms on the BX and a hydraulic top link with a long cylinder throw. You'd change some of the geometry of the 3pt on the BX and that would allow you to lift implements higher. Of course you could end up lifting the front of the BX off the ground because the implement weight would be moved back a bit, and you'd probably have to test the capabilities, but some front wheel weights or suitcase weights would keep you grounded.

RalphVa · Mar 14, 2004

About the smallest compact tractor with full Cat 1 capability seems to be the JD 4010, an 18 hp 3 cylinder diesel.

Think I'll look at it, but will also check out the JD 4115. This seems to be the smallest direct injection diesel, more economical and easier to start. Will also look at the BX 1830 and possibly one of the small Kubota B models.

I've 8.5 acres and can use some FEL ability and bush hog to spell my Gravely on snow moving and hogging and to provide FEL ability that it doesn't have.

Ralph

Bob_Skurka · Mar 14, 2004

Ralph . . . with 8.5 acres, and with minimal price differences, why not look at the B7500, NH TC24 or similar size tractors? Just a step up from the sub-compacts but you might find that slight increase in size useful for some of the farm & landscape chores that 8.5 acres brings??

Henro · Mar 14, 2004

what if you put longer lower arms on the BX and a hydraulic top link with a long cylinder throw. 

Bob, I think this is somewhat related to the thread...as 3PH limitations could push the poster towards a larger HP tractor.

I am planning on doing a couple things to hopefully give some more capability to the bx 3ph. One is to add Pat's Easy Change system to the ends of the lower arms, which will give them a little more length and also help make up for their somewhat narrow spread.

It is also possible to get a little more lift by drilling new holes in either the lower arms or the linkage pieces that attach to the lower arms. There have been posts showing how others here at tbn have done this.

The final thing could be a hydraulic top cylinder...had not considered that...but I need to put T&T on my B2910 first...and that may drain the "play money portion" of the bank account for this year... /forums/images/graemlins/frown.gif

If I were to have only one tractor, I would want one that had a fully capable 3PH, so I guess in my case the BX would not fit my needs. Fortunately the bx is not my only tractor... /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif

clundog · Mar 14, 2004

Kevin,
I don't know how close all of your dealers are, but I do know I sit/drive them all given the chance! In addition to the big boys I'd look at the CK20 Kioti and the 2015 Mahindra. Good luck with your decision.

rbarker · Mar 14, 2004

( If I were to have only one tractor, I would want one that had a fully capable 3PH, so I guess in my case the BX would not fit my needs. Fortunately the bx is not my only tractor... /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif )

Just thought I should point out here that there are vendors who make "estate" attachments that work perfectly on the BX series cat 1 3PH system. I have a back blade and "york" rake that will spin around completely when raised. If you are buying new this should be a non-issue. If you already own Cat 1 3PH attachements then Henro is right, they may not work quite as well.

art · Mar 14, 2004

First I'd look at the money you want to invest and then look at the tractors. THe BX1500 with a 54" deck can get you started as economically as you will find. It is not to heavy so as to cause compaction to the lawn but yet it has a complete line of options for most all jobs a tractor that size can handle.

NIXON · Mar 14, 2004

Kevin .
I've probably got more questions than answers for you .
(I haven't read all the posts ) . Do you plan on more than just mowing ? Maybe some snow clearing, gravel drive work ? Or , post hole digging ,maybe a bit of moving material ?
I'm asking this because I've found more uses for my machine than I'd originally anticipated . Look at machines in the 20 -25 hp range if you want more than a mower . I'd also suggest 4wd . Go to each of the manufacturers forums ,and ask questions about the machines . When you think you have it down to a few machines , go to the dealers and look ,sit on, and drive them . It'll become apparent as to what you need then . John

frank_f15 · Mar 14, 2004

will agree with BOB; at least look at the kubota b series or aoter name brands in the same size, not only will u pick up a few HP but will also gain some ground clearence if that might be improtant to u

yooperdave · Mar 14, 2004

Hi Kevin,

Have you considered a Power Trac? Nothing offers as many options and versatility for a smaller tractor.

I can save you some shipping costs if you buy real soon...

Good Luck

Yooper Dave