Considering GT3200 w/ 54 in deck

ASEmaster · May 14, 2011

Comparing the GTX2154LE and the GT3200...I like the 3200 because of metal hood, bigger engine, diff lock., fatter axle shaft.

I like the seat and brush guard on the GTX2154...(the factory seat is 400 plus bucks and I think the brush guard is 200ish for parts if it bolts on the 3200, just for conversation purposes. I like the armrests- they don't come on the 3200 model.)

Also it appears theres not much difference in the 2000 series and the 50th anniversary model that costs $1500.00 more except GTX2154LE has brush guard, fancier seat and LED headlight bulbs.

Cost seems similar between GT3200 and GTX2154LE, and it appears the GTX2154 has a few glamour bells and whistles that don't equate to the almost equal cost between the two rigs in my mind.

I have a Kioti CK30HST w/ a rear finish mower but there's places on my lot I can't get in to, and my wife says she'd help mow if we had two rigs. That would cut down my mowing time at my recreational lot.
Plus I'd have another tractor!

The land is a bit rugged there and I can see where consumer grade mowers from home center and such would be beat to c*rap in short order. I like to buy quality, over-maintain it and keep it forever- as far as equipment goes.

JTKub · May 14, 2011

The 2 and 3K's are all nice machines for sure. The problem with a 3K is, if your plan is to outfit it with ground-engaging attachments, your approaching the cost of a compact utility tractor. Not only that, the second you "drive it off the lot" you get the notorious Cub massive depreciation. I've seen 3-4yr/old 3000 series machines sell for $2500 or less. Usually less!

As much as I loved my 2005 model year 2544, there's no way I'd pay what they want for one now, especially if you've got to pay extra for a cutting deck. A 44" or the likes should come standard with incremental up-charges for larger. FWIW, my 2544 cost me $2999+ tax new.

Joel

MrFoPow · May 15, 2011

Whether you go 2k series or 3k I think you'll like it.

Post pics of your new purchase when you get it.:thumbsup:

scoutcub · May 15, 2011

First of all, :welcome:!!

I'm not real familiar with the 2154, except with what I've seen just scrolling thru the Cub site. Looks like a nice machine, although as you've said the LE models are a bit overpriced, and as JT said, you'll never get that back if you trade or sell.
I have owned several 2000 and 3000 series machines, and personally prefer the 3200. I've never bought a new one, but always low hour used ones for significantly less.
For me, comparing the 2 - with the 3200 you get 2 more HP, the hydraulic lift, shaft driven deck, and the locking differential which I found to be a great asset. I've used the front blower and front blade on the 3200 with great success.
Cub does sell an armrest kit for their seats, I know cause I have one sitting in my attic. The brushgaurd does look nice, I will say.....but a bit spendy for 400? Can you weld?:laughing:

Also, with the 3200 you can opt for the 60" deck, which I preferred over the 54.
Anyways, good luck with the decision and let us know what you do!

ASEmaster · May 15, 2011

I'm keeping my eye out for a used 3200 but in Seattle area its unfortunately not the tractor capitol of the world LOL
That's good to know that theres armrests available as an add-on as opposed to having to replace the whole seat for that. The LE seat had possibly more adjustability than the standard as well as lumbar adjustment but I can live without the "Recarro" racing seat for $400+

I've heard its possible to add an oil cooler? I'd be interested if anyone knows the part numbers/ sources.
I suppose an add on smaller electric fan could be a good idea if theres room.

IS THERE ANY OTHER BRANDS OF NEW TRACTORS SIMILAR FEATURED TO THE CC 3200 I SHOULD CONSIDER??

JTKub · May 15, 2011

One thing to keep in mind with the armrests is they are snag magnets! I know I've caught mine on low branches and the darn utility pole support cable I've got on one area of my property. I've nearly torn them off. This was on my Z-Force though. My 2005 model year 2544 didn't have them.

In regards to the oil cooler, just Google "Kohler Command oil cooler kit". Kohler makes a bolt-on kit for it. There's a model or two of the Cub 3K series that used a liquid cooled Kawasaki, the rest use Kohler Command Vtwins.

Joel

ASEmaster · May 19, 2011

Is it possible?? Local dealer says NO new GT3200's available except a couple weather beaten ones at an upper midwest dealer...

JTKub · May 19, 2011

The 3200's are still listed on Cub's 2011 model year line-up, but word was this is the last year for them.

Typically they stop lawn/garden production around July, but maybe they stopped the 3K's early.

They were never a high production machine anyway. I'm sure one can be located depending on how much resources you want to put into searching.

Joel

Jimt76 · May 19, 2011

I was really into the 2154 until I found no diff lock and no rear tiller option. Ended up with the x500 jd. Basically same price jd has diff lock and many attachments

MrFoPow · May 20, 2011

JTKub said:
The 3200's are still listed on Cub's 2011 model year line-up, but word was this is the last year for them.

Typically they stop lawn/garden production around July, but maybe they stopped the 3K's early.

They were never a high production machine anyway. I'm sure one can be located depending on how much resources you want to put into searching.

Joel

Are they done with the 25xx's as well?