Features best included at time of purchase

[IndyJay]

That's basically a list of every available option.

Almost... he left out rubber floor mat, which I added to mine.

 

[Thomas]

Seat arm rest come in handy.

 

[jeff9366]

I want hooks on the bucket...do dealers do that?

Most FEL buckets take bolt-on chain grab hooks.
I have mounted Ken's bolt-on hooks myself and they have proved immovable under duress. Ken is a specialty producer/vender who seems to make a reasonable living servicing this specialized need.
VENDER: Bolt-On Hooks - BoltOnHooks LLC

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A minority of FEL buckets require chain grab hooks to be welded on due to the bucket's shape.

 

[bdhsfz6]

Heading into my final phase before ordering a tractor...I have a list of features I think I want installed at or before purchase.

In no particular order:
3 sets of rear remote, 1 w/detent.
3rd function valve in front for grapple.
Telescoping lower links.
Pin-style stabilizer arms.
Position controlled 3pt
Top and Tilt hydraulic 3pt links
3pt adjustment lever near the hitch
Suspension seat with arm rests
3rd function integrated on FEL joystick
If HST, throttle linked and cruise

What am I missing? Only Tractor features, not implements. Will be doing about 5 acres of rotary cutting and 14 of tree work (pine plantation) about an acre of food plot. Will need to maintain driveway of 200 ft or so and paths across acreage.

Your list pretty much covers all the options I like on a tractor. The only thing I would add is a cab, but that may not be practical if you maintain wooded acreage.

With the exception of the T&T kit, 3rd function valve and rear remotes, the Kubota Grand L series tractors come standard with most of the other features you listed.

Keep in mind that options like a T&T kit and 3rd function valve are easily added later. Sometimes, aftermarket equipment performs better than OEM in some cases. This is particularly true with Kubota T&T kits. For example, you might consider one from another source like Fit Rite Hydraulics.

Most cut tractors come standard with some sort of "suspension" seat. Most however are spring actuated and often don't provide the best ride. If comfort is a high priority, consider a quality air ride seat like those from Grammer. Many dealers offer them as an option but they can be added after market as well.

 

[paulfun9]

Personally... I would add Kubota to the top of the list.

Why? They haven’t impressed me more than others!

 

[5030]

Far as I'm concerned, for me it's all based on dealer location and reputation. Why I have Kubota ag tractors. dealer is close, has a stellar reputation and is very easy to deal with plus usually has what I need and if not gets it quickly, which is quite a feat in the times of supply chain issues.

 

[RoyJackson]

Definitely the rear remotes!! I have one, and I want to add 2 more and it definitely would have been better if they had been installed. Bought mine used so it came with what the original owner wanted.
If you get a cab tractor, consider exterior mirrors and rear window wiper

 

[Hay Dude]

Tractor will ultimately be determined by which dealer can get all of these things into the best package. Size will be 3-4k lbs with about 45 HP. I want at least 2k lift capacity at full height. I know that number is squishy, but I also hope to not need more than 75% of capacity. I figured that other than a couple of Kubota they are all "4wd", or front wheel assist. I want hooks on the bucket...do dealers do that? I have watched others weld, but that is all of my welding experience, so I either learn to do it or pay someone with skills. I figured work lights can be added cheaply after the fact. Brush guard and skid plates are a must, but after market may be a better option...not sure. Cab is about a 10% likelihood. I will be retired and can opt out of most bad weather issues. I don't think I looked at any without a horn. I don't think I will need the 540e, too few acres to cut at one time. Drawbar, yes. Kubota has the edge in proximity, but I would have to get a mx and they don't have most of the features standard...TYM and Branson seem to have the edge in value right now, but we'll see when actual quotes come out for all features. Kioti and LS are still on the table. (And by proxy, then, CaseIH, NH, and Bobcat)

Thanks for the help! I need to make sure some of these basic things are standard or are written into my proposal.

My idea is that I will give my 'finalists' a list of must-have options and specs give them a max budget and have them give me their best option with those parameters. My budget was $30k, but it may need to go up due to inflation. I'm flexible on HP down to 35, but I think I can do better.

Since you are in DPF territory, have you considered an ultra clean used tractor for less money without the DPF?
Probably get a used one with a cab and all kinds of options for same as new open station.
Maybe you WANT open station and it’s a moot point

 

[jeff9366]

Your list pretty much covers all the options I like on a tractor. The only thing I would add is a cab, but that may not be practical if you maintain wooded acreage.

With the exception of the T&T kit, 3rd function valve and rear remotes, the Kubota Grand L series tractors come standard with most of the other features you listed.

Most cut tractors come standard with some sort of "suspension" seat. Most however are spring actuated and often don't provide the best ride. If comfort is a high priority, consider a quality air ride seat like those from Grammer. Many dealers offer them as an option but they can be added after market as well.

The Kubota Grand L "HST/PLUS" transmission is the berries.

Grammer produces the air ride seats for Kubota Grand Ls.

 

[Torvy]

Your list pretty much covers all the options I like on a tractor. The only thing I would add is a cab, but that may not be practical if you maintain wooded acreage.

With the exception of the T&T kit, 3rd function valve and rear remotes, the Kubota Grand L series tractors come standard with most of the other features you listed.

Keep in mind that options like a T&T kit and 3rd function valve are easily added later. Sometimes, aftermarket equipment performs better than OEM in some cases. This is particularly true with Kubota T&T kits. For example, you might consider one from another source like Fit Rite Hydraulics.

Most cut tractors come standard with some sort of "suspension" seat. Most however are spring actuated and often don't provide the best ride. If comfort is a high priority, consider a quality air ride seat like those from Grammer. Many dealers offer them as an option but they can be added after market as well.

Cab is not as practical for me. If I had unlimited funds I would buy 2, one with and one without...we are retiring early and cash will be somewhat limited.

The Kubota Grand L would have to be at least a 4760 to get the 1055 loader. That brings new MSRP to over $36k without the add-ons. Even with the horse discount, it is over $34k. Those prices are just not likely to get it done.

Good points on after market hydraulic options. My concern is cost. I know my limitations and I want it done right. I think I could install the T&T if the hydraulic valves are already installed. In a few years I may be comfortable with installing remotes, for now, I have to leave to the experts.

I'll have to dig into the details on the seats. Thanks.