Deere 4100 vs 2305vs 2210

[Newtoagstuff1]

Just, looking for info or opinions. I work for a deere dealer but on the construction/mining side. But we also have some ag and turf dealerships also but I know nothing about it to say the least. I have recently moved to 5 acres in the mountains. And need a tractor for driveway maintenance, clearing of some trees that are down, and general dirt moving. I have done the worst of it already with a loaner excavator with a thumb. But now I need to buy a tractor to help with what remains. The dealer I work for has some trade ins that I could get reasonable but really don't have a clue. Right now there is a 2210, 2305, and a 4100 available at other branches. Just don't know what would be best. I know age is the biggest difference they all seem to be comparable in size. Just need some input on the different models. I will also probably mow with them too. But will have to purchase a deck for what ever I buy. Because these all only have the FEL currently. Any input would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

 

[RalphVa]

The 2305 and 2210 are "subcompact" models; whereas, the 4100 is more like a "compact". In today's numbering system by JD, the 4100 would be something like a 2020, if that doesn't confuse you further. The 4100 has a tad more ground clearance and has its hydraulic cooler in front of the radiator, with the radiator fan drawing air through both rad & cooler. Whereas, the 2305 & 2210 have cooling fans underneath. Lots of owners of these have had the cooling fans torn apart by brush, etc.

Ralph

 

[Newtoagstuff1]

That is great info for me. I thought the 4100 was still a sub compact. Just an older version. The oil cooler would concern me. As I would probably work one too hard thinking it would be ok. And have to pay the price for it. Like I said I am new to anything ag. Related. I just pretty much looked at H.P. Ratings. The hours are all pretty comparable on these machines. I thought age and options/ durability would be the difference if any.

Thanks for the input

 

[JD 4520]

Sounds like the sub compacts are not big enough for the tasks that you will encounter. Look for other options if you can find some but the 4100 should be good.

 

[GaryM]

I have a last year of production 4100. Been great unit. I did add two rear remotes as well as a rear work light. JD did not market a back hoe for that model, but I probably wouldn't have bought one anyway. That might be a consideration for you though.

 

[PlumCrazy814]

The 2305, in my opinion, is a great general maintenance Sub-compact. The 2305 allows me to get into tight places and is a great mower. I moved down from a 30HP when I got it and have, at times, missed the old one.
I've been able to drag moderate size trees and some other pulling work but do not have a FEL or backhoe for the 2305 (did for the old one).
If you have a lot of work to be done, you might want to consider a larger tractor in the 30HP range with ground clearance if you are going woods stomping with it. 4WD for me was a must in both cases due to my hilly terrain. It is not the "go" factor of 4wd but rather the "hold back" power of 4wd that makes me feel safer on hills. The extra traction is a bonus.

 

[tractorsrule]

I have a 2305 too and I tried using a 5ft rotary mower(bush-hog) to cut some overgrown ground and it just wasn't up to the task. Power was Ok, but ground clearance and weight of the cutter was not good. It is great for mowing and snow plowing with a 5ft rear blade.

 

[rtgt]

I have a 2305. It is a great heavy duty garden tractor. I have had both a 2210 and a 2305 and have used both for lawn mowing, light dirt work with a FEL and Box Blade, and for snow removal with a blade and blower. For these applications the little tractor has done a very good job.

In addition to the transmission cooling fan there is one other "issue". The front bearing journal on the rear PTO shaft is "weak" from what I have been told. Any shock load to the rear PTO will grenade the bearing journal (part of the transmission case) and result in a $6,000+ repair bill. In 2007 they upgraded the 2305 case, but some have still reported failures.

The biggest cause for failure I am told is having too long of a PTO shaft and the impact to the PTO from the long shaft. Others have reported failures when they hit an obstical while mowing with a rotary cutter.

I was warned about this when I purchased (and posted) a used 4' rotary cutter. I was cautioned to use a loose slip clutch and be very careful what I was mowing.

 

[buickanddeere]

The 2305 is more of a lawn and nursery type machine.
When at the dealership ask what he can do with a new 4005.

 

[buickanddeere]

Later 2305 were updated with beefier pto drives.