L3830- looking to buy 1st tractor

[gthag]

I'm still shopping for my first tractor (posted earlier about L3000 and JD 790; decided I probably need a bigger tractor).

The latest I'm looking at is a new 2004 L3830 2WD with shuttle shift transmission and no attachments. The dealer is asking 13,500. Do you guys have any thoughts about the price, and components/ features I should be sure are included?

 

[JayC]

What's the machine going to be used for? You should really get 4WD. It can be a real timesaver if you have it. You will get stuck pretty easily with 2WD. One of the most recommended attachments is the FEL. It is said time and time again that it is the most useful attachment you will have. Also, for beginners, the HST transmission is recommended. It is the simplest to use.

One last thing, if you do get this machine, be sure to post a couple pics. /forums/images/graemlins/laugh.gif

 

[OrangeGuy]

I have to agree with JayC's recommendations. 4 Wheel drive, hydrostatic and FEL are pretty popular options. However, depending on what you want to do with it, a standard 2 wheel drive tractor can do alot of work. Farmers and contractors used 2 wheel drive, standard transmission tractors for most of the 20th century.

Like any major purchase, do your research, determine what is best for you, then buy it and enjoy.

OrangeGuy

 

[hillslider]

HST HST HST!!!!!

Hst is not only the easiest to operate but in my opinion is the only way to go for smaller utility tractors. I have operated quite a few tractors and now that have a L3130 HST I would never go with a gear tractor. They are so smooth to run. In tight areas I think they are alot safer. You have an infinte speed range at a touch of the pedal. If you have never tried one you should. I think you will be amazed. Well worth the extra money. 4wd is also something to consider. But let all of us know your intentions for the tractor. I am sure everyone here will be more than happy to spend your money.

 

[DCRC]

I would strongly reccomend getting the 4WD and HST. If that would be stretching you budget or your set on getting a gear tractor you may want to do some comparison shopping. I really liked the looks of the Mahandra and Century, but felt the Kubota was the best value and I was set on getting a Hydro.

 

[_RaT_]

Just make sure 4WD is not needed. As far as transmission types go, I would rather have 4WD and any transmission then no 4WD. You can be the judge of 2WD vs 4WD. I should think the market for 2WD is pretty small. Your price seems about right all though I never checked into 2 WD so my basis could be off. God lucj any which way you proceed.

 

[26101]

I have had old farm tractors for years and before retirement wanted to get a new one that would last as long as my old John Deere but with power steering and a front end loader and easy to get on. We fully intended to buy a century and the dealer was very helpful but my wife thought it was awkward getting on the century and she was right. Switched to looking at kubota'sand ended up with a 2004 3830 hst 4x4 for 15500.00 for just the tractor and with 0% financing .We also purchased a bushhog m246 loader for $ 3800.00 .(04/24/04)

The only haggling I did was telll the owner I was looking at centurys. This was in Ripley WV at Fairplain tractor sales. I think there is some competion in this area from century and mahindra which may keep the dealers markup down. This dealer also sold New Holland and Massey but said the Kubota was the best buy and he had less warranty work. He also had a yard full of Kubota's he just received at the time.

We got the HST so my wife with bad knees could use it but I love it. I just had knee surgury and it is hard to push brakes but I only have to push to set the parking brake!

I have had 2 wheel drive tractors for years on the farm but when its muddy you do a lot more damage spinning doing required chores. the 4x4 is much nicer in the mud and doesn't trench as much. Amazingly it turns about as sharp as my old 2wd John Deere.

 

[Kytractor]

I am with the others about the 4x4 and the loader sure would be hard to live with out. I gave 15,750 plus 4100 for the loader. saved the most on the 509 bradco backoe at 6000. As for the L3830, after 15 months I still couldn't be happier with my selection. /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif