Kubota B7800 or ???

cart99 · Jun 5, 2005

I am brand new to the tractor world, but learning fast. I recently bought a house on 10 acres in Northern tip of VA and we will be putting 1-3 horses on it once the fence and barn is built. The land is a gentle slope, mostly pasture but also some heavy tree/brush areas that need cleared.

I am looking for a general all-around tractor to bush-hog the approx. 8 acres of pasture and do all around horse-farm stuff. I'm using an 18hp JD lawn tractor for the "yard" area which is working fine, but I keep asking it to do things its not meant to do and if I don't get a real tractor soon i'm gonna break it.

175' stone driveway, but wife and i both have 4wd and neighbor has a plow truck he loves to play with.

I have 6 neighbors, 3 have B-series Kubotas, 1 NH sub-compact (too small!!), and other two don't have a tractor

My neighbor across the street loaned me his 77 hour Kubota B7800HST to bush hog and I loved it (especially hydrostatic drive and power steering!) with the exception that "fine tuning" the height of the bush hog was trickier than I thought it should be, and there was no cup holder.

I priced an identical new tractor and got what seems like a pretty good price (R4s, FEL, 5' Bush hog). I also priced a comparable NH TC33 Boomer and dang near fell out of my chair -- $6k MORE!

A couple questions:

1. Is the NH really worth $6k more than the Kubota (The NH had 3 more HP and supersteer) Even the dealer (young guy) couldn't tell me much that made the NHs so much better than the Kubotas.

2. should I even LOOK at a JD or am I gonna fall out of my chair again? If so, which is comparable to the B7800?

3. a farm nearby is apparently a new Kioti dealer because he has two of them parked out front with a sign. Definitely not your typical "show room" type establishment. Should I consider these as well?

4. If I decide on Kubota is the B3030 worth an extra $2k over the B7800?

5. should I get the rear tires filled? (I plan to get R4s)

6. Thinking about swapping in a foldable ROPS, couple of work lights and having a couple hooks welded onto the top edge of the FEL. Anything else I should think about?

Thanks!!!

firtol88 · Jun 5, 2005

You are not comparing apples to apples that NH has 5 more HP at the PTO, weighs 700lbs more... It would take more time than I have to list the differences.

Anyway, yes I would look at the John Deere and no I would not look at the Kioti JMO.

For the most part you will find prices are about equal for similarly equipped tractors. Good luck and have fun picking your new toy. /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

MFL · Jun 5, 2005

cart99,

We have almost identical profiles! While I can't comment on any other brand being "better", I can tell you that I've been very happy with my B7800. I've had it for just over a year and it has done everything I've asked. What is now my pasture, was completely wooded when I bought the tractor. I had the land cleared by a logging company then a friend brought over his Cat's to stump and grade the land. Throughout that process, I basically stayed on the sidelines. The B series is too small to be effective in the heavy work of preparing new land. The B7800 is perfect for everything else, though! I've smoothed and graded, seeded, fertilized, put in almost 200 wood posts, cleared land for my workshop, moved boulders, etc., etc. The size is perfect to get into my remaining wooded areas, and I've been amazed at the power this "little" tractor has!

That said, if I was buying this year instead of last year and knowing what I know now, I'd pay the difference for the B3030. My only complaint with the B7800 is the 1/4" inching valve. As you said, it's a little tricky fine tuning the height on some attachments. The position control valve is much more user friendly. Also, the telescopic lower link ends would be great to have. Trying to muscle the box blade a few inches when things don't line up isn't as much fun as it sounds! Finally, it does give you a place to put a cold beverage!

All in all the B7800 is a great tractor. Don't hesitate to look around, but if you decide on a Kubota, you'll be buying a very solid, well priced machine that will run a looong time.

Bird · Jun 5, 2005

The B7800 is a fine tractor and good choice, but personally, I'd pay the extra $2k for the B3030 to get some of the "deluxe" features the B7800 doesn't have; i.e., position control instead of quarter inching valve, tilt wheel, cruise control, etc.

To20Chris · Jun 5, 2005

Since your list of tasks does not seem to include lawn mowing, and you've already got a lawn tractor, I would suggest you get a heavier tractor. This means anything but a Kubota B series, which are some of the lightest units, as they are optimized for mowing with a lightweight steel frame. If you want to stay with Kubota, look at the L series, or broaden your horizons and look at the Kioti CK25/30 line. My LK is quite heavy, will filled tires, and I'm usually wanting more traction yet. The B7xxx line also has the useless quarter-inching valve, which is a cheesy cost cut on Kubota's part.

plaindave · Jun 5, 2005

I'm two years into my 7800 and can't say enough good things about it. I bought it based on my personal price/value perception, and the dealer.

The same dealer sold NH tractors, and I saw the same price differential you did. While I am sure it was worth more, for my use I didn't see the additional value it would offer me.

Local John Deere dealer seemed to sell large diesel lawn mowers to people with 2 acres of grass and that didn't work too well for me.

All said, the 7800 is kind of a between sizes tractor and that worked for me. Lighter than some of the bigger models (and less expensive), and heavier than the BX series. I do wish I had position control. Never thought I would need that, and the telescopic stabilizers would be nice, but I fixed that with a Pat's Easy Change.

If you like the dealer I wouldn't hesitate to recommed the 7800.

To20Chris · Jun 5, 2005

My previous post was too blunt, so I thought I'd qualify it. The B7800 is a nice unit, for what it was designed for. It's important to remember that a CUT is a general purpose machine - while you can put a FEL and BH and brush hog on all of them, and they will certainly function, that doesn't mean they are all the same. The designers optimize different models for different things. It's worthwhile recognizing what the particular tractor you're considering was optimized for, and if it matches what you're going to do with it. The B's are light, with powerful engines, in order to run mowers and not leave tracks. In your case, for your uses (which are similar to mine), I think you could make a better choice.

rpeter · Jun 5, 2005

I recently purchased a B7800. I bought it because I needed a light weight small machine I could use in my woods. Size does matter and there are times when having the extra 700 pounds of the NH would be nice. Having said that, I have 22 acres and the 7800 will do everything I need to do. I would get the B3030 if you can spring for the extra 2k. I could not get the boss to do that /forums/images/graemlins/shocked.gif

RodgerF · Jun 5, 2005

A better comparison to the B7800 would be the TC30. It's available with hydro but no cup holder. /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

I don't have the stats in front of me but I believe the TC30 is a little heavier, more available PTO hp, and more lift on the 3ph. Double check the stats though. Also the TC30 has true position control.

You didn't mention a fel but I bet you could use one. I can't comment on how the two would compare, just something to think about.

Good luck with whatever you decide. Shopping is half the fun of getting a tractor.

Rodger

gippolit · Jun 6, 2005

3. a farm nearby is apparently a new Kioti dealer because he has two of them parked out front with a sign. Definitely not your typical "show room" type establishment. Should I consider these as well?

Yes. If you compare apples to apples the Kiotis will win hands down. See if you can Demo a ck30hst.

cart99 · Jun 6, 2005

Ok, based on all the excellent responses I have received, here is where I am at.

1. I'm now looking at the B3030HSD instead of the B7800HSD. With R4s and FEL, my est. price is about $17,400. I really can't afford to go higher.

2. I should consider the following "apples to apples" alternatives:

a. New Holland TC30 with hydro. - price ???
b. Kioti CK30HST - price ???
c. John Deere ?????

I could really use some help on what model JD compares best to the B3030HSD!

Also, I heard several mention concerns about how light the tractor is. Bottom line is I *do* want something that I can regularly run across the "lawn" without tearing it up, and I need to be as gentle on the pasture as I can be. If I decide that I need more weight, I can fill the tires and/or have weights fitted. That's the thing of it...I can make a lighter tractor heavier, I can't make a heavy tractor lighter /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif

gippolit · Jun 6, 2005

I paid 21,000 for CK30hst in Feb 2005. Included in the price.

Grill Gard
Rear work lights
FEL KL130
Rhion 85 backhoe
Canopy.

Regards
Glen

LAXPatrick · Jun 6, 2005

I was in a similar dilemma (small horse property) - but I needed mine for mowing and snow removal. Started with the 2210/BX and moved up from there.

I'd narrowed it down to the TC24DA (stellar financing deal, too small for my petite - 6'8" frame).

B7610/7800 - nice, plenty of tractor for what I want to do.

Ended up with a new/hours on the clock (45) JD4310.

I'd consider the 24 or 4310 if there are any left in your neck of the woods - but I think that the 7800 is a really nice tractor!

PC

johnsonauto · Jun 6, 2005

You also might want to take a look at the Mahindra 3015HST,
30hp turbo, 3 range hst, 1350lbs lift with the loader to full height at the pins. 3 yer warranty.
- all the tractors you list are not bad, you should also factor in the dealer support as it can make a big difference after the sale.

albmn10 · Jun 6, 2005

Dont be afraid of the Kioti, If your not specializing in mowing the Ck30 will out perform the B3030 or B7800 in just about every need you have.. The added weight will prove very usefull. I have the R4s on my Ck30hst and it fairs well on my lawn. Take one for a test run.. The Tc 30 is also a capable tractor , just a bit plain.. The Mahindra 10 series are also nice tractors ... The Jd are nice but very expensive...Find the ones that fits your budget and test drive them all.. Then go to each room , use the search engine and read up on all your brands in question.. A good dealer is important too, find one who takes the time to answer all your questions to your satisfaction... good luck..

aloha · Jun 7, 2005

I personally would not pay the extra cost of a B3030.

I agree position control would be nice, but quarter inching has always been fine for me. You can adjust the speed at which the 3PH responds. The only drawback I see to quarter inching is that the 3PH will leak down slowly. When bouncing the brush hog over rough terrain I need to raise it about 1" every 10 minutes or so.

Trading the B7800 rigid ROPS for a folding ROPS is a good move.

You would want filled tires for increased stability and increased traction.

The only thing I have broken on my B7800 in 240 hours is a check chain on the 3PH lower arms. I replaced that with the stabilizer bars used on the B2910, and it makes a big improvement.

I would consider the B3030's hydraulic PTO to be a distinct drawback. I like to be able to stop the PTO from turning by stepping on the clutch. This is especially important with a post hole digger, but I also find it handy at times with a brush hog. I want to be able to raise the 3PH, stop the PTO, and look behind the tractor all at the same time. My neck does not have enough rotation to do that if both my right and left hand are busy with levers to my right and left.

Ranashi · Jun 8, 2005

Personally, I would take a look at them all. I was in a similar situation you are in today. I looked at all the ones you listed and many more. I didn't even know about Kioti until another deal of mine fell through (used machine with 27 hours on it from a dealer). Until that fell through my second choice was a Kubota 7800 that was also used (around 50 hours). The sales man from the first deal never called me back to finalize the paper work and the tractor is still sitting on the lot after they discovered a problem with the engine. Long story short I went back over to the Kubota dealer and he said he had a used Kioti (500hrs) for me to look at if I was interested in the 7800. I asked him a little more about Kioti, went home pulled up the local shops online and went and took a look at the new ones (wanted a new machine or almost new one). I went out and found the price was actually a couple thousand cheaper and I ended up with more options. The CK30HST is more machine than the 7800 so you will expect a higher price range but might still be cheaper than the 7800. I know it is cheaper or at least was for the CK30HST with FEL and Brush hog than it was for the 7800 with the same options in my area. In addition you get telescoping arms on the 3 point and a cup holder!! I would say at least spend a little time to go look at the machine and I would ask the dealer if you might be able to try it out and even possibly use it a little at your house. I know my dealer took a tractor over so someone could try a larger bailer of some kind before they purchased the tractor to make sure it would work fine with the bailer type. The dealer offered to bring the tractor to my house for half of a day until I said no because I was over 90 miles away. Just don't discount the other brands fit and finish might be just as good if not better in some cases for a cheaper price (price is dependant on location/region). I ended up getting the same size tractor a little less HP with a backhoe, box scraper, post hole digger, sunshade, and FEL for almost the same price you quoted just under 18k CK20HST. I haven't gotten the brush hog yet as I have access to one as needed and could use the other items more. Good luck on your final choice....

JT1972 · Jun 9, 2005

You have several options of New Holland tractors versus the Kubota.
I did some research on these and will assume you were comparing the TC33DA to the B7800 Kubota. If you want to compare apples to apples, you should look at the New Holland TC30. Still going to give you more horsepower, PTO hp will be a significant advantage for the new holland as the kubota drivelines are very inefficient.
- Comparing the New Holland TC33DA to the B7800, I can see the price difference. The TC33 has the following bells and whistles. one piece hood design with gas strut versus sidepanels, prop rod, metal hood of kubota. - Deluxe operator platform with cruise control, tilt and telescoping steering wheel, swivel seat, 12 volt power socket, automotive style dash, --- all of which the kubota does not have. on the loaders, no comparison here, the NH loader is superior. With almost double the lift capacity and the curved boom design with the quick attach bucket---this would make me buy the NH right here. You can see everything around this loader. Can't see anything from the kubota loader, visibility is horrible from the B7800. Rear ends, compare the construction of the tractors. Stamped steel rear ends of the kubota versus cast iron of the NH tractors, which one do you think is going to last longer. Nh advantage on lift capacity plus the deluxe 3pt with the flex link ends, telescoping stabilizers, crank style adjustment--- awesome stuff again for hooking up attachments which you will not get on the kubota. Foldable rops is standard on NH. The rear axles were the selling point for me versus the kubota tractor, the B7800 and the 3030 are very light duty, you can almost tip the tractor over by pushing on the rops. Also take a look at the steering on the kubota tractors, they are still using power assist with the tie rods exposed to the front of the unit. Power assist is 1950's technology. You do truly get what you pay for. Concern about the mahindra's, coyotees, and all of the other shortline brands is where do you get parts and service if you need it.

cart99 · Jun 9, 2005

Wow, I just drove a JD 3120 and man I am beginning to see what people have been saying about not comparing apples to apples. I would say I definitely need to test drive an NH 29 before I simply dimiss it as being "more expensive".

Of course, the JD 3120 is coming out to be about $3,000 more than the Kubota B3030, but I can see much of that difference in the overall capabilities of both machines.

DK35vince · Jun 9, 2005

( You do truly get what you pay for. Concern about the mahindra's, coyotees, and all of the other shortline brands is where do you get parts and service if you need it.)

If I need parts or service for my Kioti I simply go to the dealer like everyone else !!
Contrary to what some seem to believe, I have good dealer service and no problems getting parts.. Thanks
I seem to recall reading about some NH guys having long waits for parts recently, so spare me !!!