Comparison Help me compare these 4 tractors!

[Olympus]

3520 weighs 4053, loader weighs 1161. Tractor with loader weighs approx. 5200 lbs. 25 series is about 100 lbs more.

I've not read this entire thread, but if you are comparing a Branson with a Kubota, look at the Grand L to get into a similar class tractor.

Also, some brands use "operating weight". They add 180 lbs plus a full tank of fuel to the specs. Branson's weight is just the tractor with fluids, but no operator.

As to the comment about a small dealer network for Branson, that is true. But there are a number of substantial Branson dealers. We have been a Branson dealer since 2002 and are in the top 5 nationwide for Branson. Not all Branson dealers are here and gone and small mom and pop stores.

Weight isn't everything, and in fact in some circumstances is a hindrance. But for ground engaging activities or FEL work, it sure helps. Anyone that hasn't test driven a 3520 hydro-max or even better the 3725 hydro-max ought to do so if you have a dealer nearby. It is a really deluxe tractor. And most often I see it compared to the basic models for the competition.

I do agree that the dealer is important for most folks and if you have a fantastic LS dealer nearby and no Branson dealer in sight, maybe that should sway your decision.

Thanks Dave. Having you as an experienced dealer here on the forum is a great asset. Too bad that you're a LONG way from Missouri.

I've found that Mahindra also seems very popular here on the forum, but the dealer network in my area is pretty sparse as well.

I've looked for the Grand L Kubotas and there's not any on the used market within reasonable distance to me. I was quoted like $22K for a new L3301 and that's just WAY over my budget. I've been looking to stay under $15,500 and those 4 have been my top choices. I'm somewhat picky about my stuff. I like clean and well cared for. I don't mind age, but most tractors are treated pretty rough. I just like my stuff to look nice and if someone else has taken care to keep their machine looking nice then I feel more confident in the machine. Whether that's right or wrong, that's just me. There a lot of used tractors in my budget that are bigger and more powerful, but dang they sure look rough. So I tend to skip right over them.

 

[DavesTractor]

Olympus,

I totally understand about wanting nice stuff when you buy used. A little patience will get you the right rig. A $15k used tractor ought to be a very nice late model machine.

I sell Mahindra as well, and they make nice stuff. At some HP levels my favorite tractor might be a Mahindra, at some levels a Branson.

 

[F3506]

The wife has a little LS 3037 and I've been impressed with the power, stability, and hydraulics on that little thing. Almost too much hydraulic flow for the front end loader on such a little tractor, but it will throw around 4 x 5 bales all day long by just barely touching the joystick.

It's a small tractor so it won't do everything, but if you understand that going in, it's a great little machine. I've got bigger tractors for other stuff.

 

[Olympus]

Well everyone, it's been decided. The LS R3039 seems to have won me over. I worked out a deal with the dealer and I'll be picking it up tomorrow, provided the tractor turns out to be what they say it is and what the pics make it look to be.

 

[Olympus]

I drove 4 hours one way today to an LS dealer in MS and bought the R3039. The tractor was extremely clean and well taken care of. Exactly what I hoped it would be. I checked it over thoroughly and found everything to be as good as new.

I can't say a negative thing about it. The engine just sounds so much stronger, smoother, and more quiet than my old J2023. Compared to my J2023, this felt like a "real" tractor and made my J2023 felt like a big lawn tractor. I love the suspension seat! I really like the shuttle shift instead of the hydro tranny. The tilt steering in great. The two rear remotes are going to be great. The size and weight seem to be perfect for me. The loader is smooth and responsive. Can't seem to find anything I'm not crazy about!

 

[paulfun9]

congrats on the new tractor!

I didn't give an opinion but I would have chosen the LS out of the 4 also. Glad to see I'm not the only one who likes a shuttle trans over a HST.

 

[Turbys_1700]

Nice tractor. Just a suggestion. You may want to invest in a sun shade. I run them on all my tractors. Keeps the heat at bay. Good luck with the unit and get us some action photos. That model of LS is a nice size and very capable.

 

[Olympus]

Nice tractor. Just a suggestion. You may want to invest in a sun shade. I run them on all my tractors. Keeps the heat at bay. Good luck with the unit and get us some action photos. That model of LS is a nice size and very capable.

Canopy doesn't work for me. A large portion of my work is done in the woods. But thanks.

And a big shout out to Murphy Brothers Trading Company in Booneville, MS! Great place to do business and a fantastic LS dealer.

 

[dodge man]

Congrats it does look brand new, thanks for the pics.

 

[jaydee325]

Olymus,

As I posted above, my R3039H has been solid.

I'm confident your experience will be the same.

Congrats and enjoy.