First time tractor owner questions

[rockyridgefarm]

I went with the backhe. I would suggest at least pricing it both ways (now and done later) It costs less to get it up front.

 

[kdouthit]

Stopped by the local "big dealer" today, pricing was average, parts department seemed busy (@ 3:30 on a Monday), service department was hopping. Sales staff attitude was take it or leave it.

Went back to have another look at the L3130. Minutes from the house, got a second drive.......................

Tractors are relatively (note I said relatively) similiar. I just get a better feeling dealing with the Kubota dealer.

Like I told my wife, in my heart I want the JD, but my brain is telling me the Kubota a better tractor for MY NEEDS when all is said & done.

I have looked at the Kioti, Branson, and New Holland as well, but the dealers turned me off real quick.

Wish it was as easy as buying a truck 3/4 ton, 4x4, and FORD. Probably get blasted for that one, but such is life.

The search continues.........

 

[BotaGuy]

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Like I told my wife, in my heart I want the JD, but my brain is telling me the Kubota a better tractor for MY NEEDS when all is said & done.

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Your desire is common, since John Deere is such an American Icon. I like John Deere too, BUT, the Kubota is the the iconic brand for the compact tractors. Most Deere dealers I have been to treat the compacts as a secondary business to the large Ag tractors. In some cases it makes sense, considering the high prices the big tractors command.

As soon as the "Orange" is in the driveway....your heart will change.

Good Luck on your decision.

 

[Rick Jay]

kdouthit,

I think they're both fine tractors, although personally I'm partial to orange, but that's mostly 'cause our local JD dealers have an attitude.

My only recommendation if you opt for the Kubota L3130 is to go with the LA723 loader. I believe, and others please correct me if I'm wrong, that the BH90 backhoe requires this loader. The smaller L4690 backhoe can go on either, but I would think you'd want the option to go with the largest hoe possible. And I'd also recommend getting the skid-steer quick-hitch option.

I also suggest getting it priced in with the deal...heck...interest rates are low, if you can possibly swing it now...go for it. Also, I believe others have sometimes persuaded their dealer to "lock in" a price on an implement for up to a year after purchase to make a pseudo-package deal.

Good Luck,

~Rick

 

[Dave___in___CT]

Hi...


kdouthit...

I checked out several tractors... it came down to the same 2 you are considering... both are fine machines...

I got the Kubota L3130 w/ loader & backhoe & Curtis cab...
...even though I coulda' got the Deere at near dealer cost + $1,000 Deere rebate... ...and caused kinda' hard feelings w/ 2 realtives who own Deere dealerships... ...this made is real tough to stay w/ my Kubota choice...

Also... I've owned 3 Deere's before... fine machines... never a Kubota...

Short version...
Kubota... better specs in most areas... beefier overall... liked it better for operating... seems like a better value... Industry standard ("Bobcat") quick attach for loader bucket/attachments vs. Deere's proprietary quick attach for 3-PT implements... standard telescoping 3-PT links...


Rick Jay says...
"My only recommendation if you opt for the Kubota L3130 is to go with the LA723 loader. I believe, and others please correct me if I'm wrong, that the BH90 backhoe requires this loader. The smaller L4690 backhoe can go on either, but I would think you'd want the option to go with the largest hoe possible. And I'd also recommend getting the skid-steer quick-hitch option."


I agree w/ Rick...
...check the specs & operation on the loaders... the LA723 is a better/heavier-duty choice... especially with the industry standard quick attach for it... works great !
The BH90 backhoe is ~commercial grade...
That's the setup I got...


"Deliberate often... decide once..."


Dave...

 

[kdouthit]

First of all, thanks to everybody for the input & suggestions. They have been benefical in our decision making process.

Drum roll please........

Tuesday morning the will deliver

JD 4310 EHydro with 430 Loader, box blade, scape blade, ballast box, quick hitch, and loaded tires,

BAsically it came down to the one the MBH felt more comfortable with (although I did convince her to go from the 4210 to the 4310)

Sleepless nights until Tuesday......................

 

[KiotiJohn]

Congratulations kdouthit. Get that owner's manual out now and read read read until you "maybe" fall asleep! John

 

[SteveH_CT]

Great Choice - One of many out there - It's not the biggest, but it sure wil work hard for you. Best of Luck.