I own both a 2000 series and a 3000 series. The 2000 series was purchased new and I bought the 3000 series as a well loved, low hour, used machine after it practically feel in my lap. Both have been very good to me, but there is no comparison in operating them. You've heard the old adage Cadillacs and Chevys I'm sure. You can't really go wrong in my humble opinion with either, but the 3165 looks to be the better deal if you can swing it, especially like Mike said if it has the diff lock. One more thing to remember is that with either machine you should be living with it for a long time. Factor in the price difference over a number of years and the gap doesn't seem quite so wide. Then again it's real easy to spend someone else's money!
Cub Cadet 2186 and 3165
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So, the wife says no way in he!! I'm spending $4800 (remember the taxes) on a tractor. More money for power tools then he he. So with that said over and over again, would I be better with the 2 year old new 2186 or a new SLT 1554. And isn't the 1554 just a marketed up 1000 series.
micman32
Gold Member
RCT said:
Women are no fun when it comes to these things!
I would go with the 2186. I think it's a great price and you get shaft drive and a more rugged tractor.
ducati996
Banned
Im pretty sure the 3165 is older than three years (since they stop making them longer than 3 years ago) and its only a 16HP machine. You would be better off with a new 3100 at very near the same price and 23HP.....IMHO
MrWiggles2
Silver Member
Yes, the SLT is a hyped up 1000 series. The 2186 is an awesome tractor and you will love it. The hydro on these units is indestructible, they are super tough. The cast iron hydro/aluminum deal was another marketing ploy by Cub. While they said the cast iron hydro weights 150lbs, the aluminum one isn't that far behind to make and appreciable weight difference.
I've pulled a lot with my 2180 and can say that core aerators, rollers, large carts are as if they aren't there. These are tough tractors, I would get the 2186.
I've pulled a lot with my 2180 and can say that core aerators, rollers, large carts are as if they aren't there. These are tough tractors, I would get the 2186.
ducati996
Banned
RCT said:
The 3100 w/44' shouldnt that much more - $4900-$5300 or better ? The 3165 is around 2001 or earlier
There is a big difference between the cast iron transmissions on the 3000 compared to the 2186. Its 50% heavier and the machine weighs 300 lbs or more. The weight shows up in every part of those machines - as something that will add longevity
I mentioned that for my dad I went with the 3000 series for the power steering and lift. At the time I remember feeling like I was spending over 2 grand for just the hydraulics as I was confident the 2000 series would do a great job on his lawn. It seems like that price jump up to the 3000's is pretty steep, and I still feel they could do a better job making the 3000's "high end". While I'm completely confident in the heft and toughness of the engine, hydro, and deck I feel basics like gas gauge and instruments should be standard, larger tires should be standard.
Anyway, I still think it sounds like the 2186 will be fine for you. If you want the bigger tractor without the cost do what I did, buy a good used mid to late '90's model (or be like Tractorlarry and have it given to you!). I've run my dad's 3204 quite a bit and after a few hours on my 1864 I prefer it to the 3204, maybe it just feels more like the Cubs I've driven since I was a kid. Oh, and not to start this discussion here, but I'll still take hand lever driven hydro over foot pedals any day.
Anyway, I still think it sounds like the 2186 will be fine for you. If you want the bigger tractor without the cost do what I did, buy a good used mid to late '90's model (or be like Tractorlarry and have it given to you!). I've run my dad's 3204 quite a bit and after a few hours on my 1864 I prefer it to the 3204, maybe it just feels more like the Cubs I've driven since I was a kid. Oh, and not to start this discussion here, but I'll still take hand lever driven hydro over foot pedals any day.
Nittany
New member
Anybody interested in a new leftover 2004 GT3235 including 60" mowing deck for $5500, including new warranty??
Last week this tractor was sitting on the showroom of my mom and pop dealer in Berkeley Springs, WV (Largent Truck & Implement 304-258-1370). They are in the process of closing up shop and this is one of the last "new" tractors left along with lots of used iron . . . I hate to see it happen as I've gotten great sales and service from there.
If there was any way I could justify it, I'd already own this tractor. It's equipment package is similar to the new GT 3200 . . . give Pat or Mrs. Largent a call to see if it's still there if anybody is serious about a great tractor at a pretty fair price!
Last week this tractor was sitting on the showroom of my mom and pop dealer in Berkeley Springs, WV (Largent Truck & Implement 304-258-1370). They are in the process of closing up shop and this is one of the last "new" tractors left along with lots of used iron . . . I hate to see it happen as I've gotten great sales and service from there.
If there was any way I could justify it, I'd already own this tractor. It's equipment package is similar to the new GT 3200 . . . give Pat or Mrs. Largent a call to see if it's still there if anybody is serious about a great tractor at a pretty fair price!
ducati996
Banned
Dave01 said:
Dave01 - I think to keeps things in perspective try comparing the price of the Cub 3000 series to what an equivilant Deere will cost you - its an ever bigger shock...
I find some of the features on the Cub are vastly improved over the 1864 - shaft attachments and the elimination of the mule drive setups (yuk!!) - and have you seen the front quick hitch attachment? its solidly built, well designed and very easy to install. The mowing decks are the best ever IMHO. I think the frame guage is thicker on the 3000 series as well..I like the foot pedal control over the lever, gives you more control all the time. It works real well on my compact too.
Duc
