L345W in Texas

[BillG_in_TX]

I was told that it was painted a few years ago (by current owner) and that it used to have a loader, but not when current owner bought it 8 years ago. Owner divorced 1 year ago, and tractor has been sitting idle since then (one more casualty).

I didn't see any evidence of ROPS, but then, you seem to be able to see more from one bad picture than I did from crawling all over it. Here's another picture.

 

[BillG_in_TX]

And here's one more picture.

 

[rbargeron]

Hi Bill - it sure looks like it hasn't run much since the paint job - the paint is intact on the exhaust manifold and header. The low-mount exhaust is nice working around fruit trees. Mine had that too.

You wouldn't see much evidence of the original rops - it attached to the loader frame which has a subframe under the rear axle and square tubing running forward on both sides outside and below the running boards.

Kubota offers a new-design rops for this tractor that curves in and attaches to the center behind the 3 point top link bracket. (which, by the way is MUCH stronger than those discussed recently on TBN) This tractor also has a stronger power steering system than mine had.

One item people wonder about on these models is the completely welded steel rear axles and formed gear housings. But mine never had a problem - and I've never heard of any that did.

The FEL that was on it must have had an external pump - the hydraulic block under the left side if the seat is the original non-ported type. To use internal hydraulics, this is where the tapping block would be substituted. The engine also has a front pto shaft for an external pump.

There are some comments on the L345DT in reviews, and in the 345 vs 355ss thread. If there is anything else I can offer - fire away. My memory is spotty but occasionally something useful turns up /w3tcompact/icons/smile.gif

 

[BillG_in_TX]

Dick,

Thanks so much for your insight on this tractor. I'm much more well informed now on this relatively obscure model. I'll let you know how the discussions go with the dealer.

If I end up buying it, will you move to Texas and be my neighbor?

Bill

 

[rbargeron]

Probably won't ever move from New England - but with this here little box I'm typing on I can be your neighbor anywhere. Just won't be able to hand you a wrench or a beer.

 

[BillG_in_TX]

Dick,

I found out that Zimmerer Kubota here in Dallas will put a rops on for $325. I assume you think that's a good idea.?

They also said that they could mount a Bush Hog 2246QT FEL for $3250. Is that worth pursuing, or do you still think I should buy a unit with a loader already on it if I'm sure I want one? I'm less sure than I was, because I'm trying to show a little restraint in purchasing a tractor I'll only use 2-3 days a month for the next year or two. My big brother (on his 5th tractor without a fel) says I won't need it.

We agreed on a price of $5800 to owner plus $200 for the dealer to change fluids and filters. He will also replace a few missing parts - like new ignition swith, battery and toplink. I told him I'd let him know by Wednesday.

Bill

 

[BillG_in_TX]

Dick,

By the way, you were correct about the "W". It stands for "Wide Axle" and refers to the front tires. Makes me wonder about the specs for the L345FW on tractortips.com that showed a weight of 2920# vs. 2530# for the L345F. Why would having a wide front axle add 390# (15%) to the total weight? or maybe 345W and 345FW are different machines? (one last picture attached)

Also, what would you recommend for a manual? I found (on ytmag.com) the L345 Operator's Manual for $30, the Service Manual for $34, and the Parts Manual for $34. I also saw several I&T manuals on e-bay for $15ish. By the way, in case you hadn't noticed, I'm no mechanic. But my father-in-law, in whose shed the tractor will reside, is a first-rate shade-tree mechanic with a little experience working on diesels. Any major work would be done at a shop, I'm sure.

Thanks for your help,

Bill

 

[Bird]

Zimmerer's new Dallas facility is quite impressive, isn't it?

 

[BillG_in_TX]

Bird,

Howdy neighbor!

I have heard a lot of good things about Zimmerer, but haven't been to their store yet. Just talked to them on the phone and checked their inventory on the internet. I did talk to a Zimmerer yesterday, though, so I guess I was getting good information.

I have also heard that Lanford Equipment Co. in Austin is a good dealer to work with. Anyone know different?

Bill

 

[Bird]

Bill, I know nothing at all about Lanford, and really don't personally know much about Zimmerer, except that they seem to have a good reputation for service (even a Kubota factory rep told me they had some good mechanics). In '95, I priced a B7100 w/FEL at Zimmerer, Central Tractor (formerly Wapiti Equipment) in Waxahachie, Al Vitter's in Corsicana (the one I'd avoid), and Tipton International in Waco. Tipton was the best price, so I bought the B7100 from them, and I've been happy with their service, so in '99 I bought my B2710 from Tipton at a good price without shopping the others. Sometime when you're heading down to Marble Falls, stop in at Tipton on I-35 just south of New Road and talk to Bud Cargill (or call him at 254-662-2420). Tell him I sent you, and no, the rascal has never given me any commission(laugh), but I'll bet he'll quote you the best price possible on new stuff, and he usually has several used tractors on the lot, too.