Rope, I've got a gear drive
L4300 with loader and, for my loader work, it's perfect. HST would've been an unnecessary expense. I use the loader mainly for lifting and relocating heavy objects (deadfalls, stumps, tree limbs, scrap metal, etc.). In the winter it's used to push back the snow banks along the drive.
However, my applications aren't yours and it's easy to conceive of loader applications where HST would be a plus. If you'll be using the loader to load a manure spreader or load dirt on a wagon, HST would probably be a wise choice. For either of these jobs, many bucket loads would be required to load the wagon and each bucket load would require a couple of transitions from forward to reverse. Clutching, stopping and changing gears for each of these transitions would significantly add to operator workload. Loading a spreader once a month with a gear tractor wouldn't be a big deal but, if you had to do it a couple of times a week, it would get old quick.
Best thing to do is to list your own loader applications and visualize how you will accomplish each task. If, on average, you're pumping the clutch more than once a minute, HST might be for you. HST would also be a plus if you're considering a snow blower or a tiller due to the infinite speed control it gives you...in both directions.
Myself, I value the straightforward simplicity of gear tractors and would probably go gear even if HST cost the same. But, for certain applications, HST is tough to beat.
BTW, I love my
L4300 and, with the
L4400 being an upgraded
L4300, it's gotta be even better. Lotsa power in a small package at a very good price.
Bob
