LK3054xs VS. DK35

bluecarpenter · Apr 4, 2005

I just got done comparing the these 2 tractors. I found that on the LK3054xs with TLB package it uses a 1231 loader with a lifting capacity to full height @pivot is 1320 pound.

The DK35 uses the 1450 loader with lifting capacity to full height @ pivot is 1350 pounds.

The both use the same backhoe. just a bit different mounting
3054 comes a 4 post ROP and canopy
DK35 just comes with ROP not canopy

At this point I can't see spending the extra 2 or 3 grand for 5 more hp. Maybe I'm wrong. /forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif

The only big difference that I can see is the weight difference is about 450 pounds or so. DK 35 being heavier.

Can someone please fill me in if I'm wrong?? /forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif /forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif

bluechip · Apr 4, 2005

The DK has a silky smooth synchro shuttle vs the mechanical shuttle on the LK3054XS, also roomy open deck, tilt steering, extending lift arms, more HP, standard remote hyd.,
Both are great tractors, the LK for value, the DK for full featured, OH yea, auto PTO, two year full warranty vs 1 on the LK also.

If you plan lots of seat time, the value may be in the DK35, but there is a difference in price as you said.

Jim_in_Omaha · Apr 4, 2005

I have a LK3054. If your a big person you'll want the DK35 because of the bigger platform. They did move the shifter to the dash on the LK3054XS which would help since thats in my way when getting on and off unless the shifter is in 1st or 3rd.
thanks
Jim

bluecarpenter · Apr 4, 2005

to me the auto pto is something that I don't need. While I do like some of the nice features on the DK series I'm just trying to find out what I may or may not need.

The bigger platform I'm sure I would like a lot better. Just trying to find the best value for the money.

WHY don't they offer more warranty on the LK model?? /forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif

I guess I'm just wanting to hear from everyone to get there take on it. thanks mark

bluecarpenter · Apr 4, 2005

As to me being a big guy I guess so. About 6ft 3in. 220 pounds.
I have tried the LK3054xs out when I took a visit to colorado. I liked how it handled and the way I could get on the hoe without getting on the ground. It was a little cramped getting on and off but once on it was comfy.
I guess I could look at the CK30. Slightly more money and 200 pounds less on lifting capacity. But has a way bigger platform. Decisions, Decisions. Thanks mark

Kiohio · Apr 4, 2005

You can put a 2385 Backhoe on the DK35.

KO

bluecarpenter · Apr 4, 2005

I thought I had heard that but there seems to be conflicting information on kioti's web site.
I would like the bigger hoe.
I go back and forth and I'm just trying to get as much info. as I can. It is a lot of money to be spending and I want to get it right. thanks mark

bluechip · Apr 5, 2005

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WHY don't they offer more warranty on the LK model?? /forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif )</font>

I think it is mainly a cost thing. The LB and LK are budget priced and the CK and DK are the premium line. I don't think they reduced the warranty on the LB/LK but rather increased it on the CK and DK.

I don't think this is a huge factor as warranty claims are not real frequent, also extended warranty is availalbe...

KiotiJohn · Apr 5, 2005

Maybe you don't need to go up to the DK35. The LK has 24 months or 1500 hours warranty on the engines and drive lines. The overall general warranty is 12 months according to the website.
The TLB package as opposed to the standard 3054XS includes the 4 post ROPS, grill gaurd, and metal hydraulic lines instead of standard rubber ones (helps to dissipate heat better), a one lever release of the backhoe, and more stable use of same.
The TLB package was designed to be more of a dedicated unit than the other models with differences in the mounting etc. that make it more suitable to loading and backhoe work. It's a fine unit.
That said, if you're comfortable on it, and it works for you, why spend more money for a DK35?
I'm sure you can live with having to stop for just a moment to shift the shuttle from F/R which you don't have to do on a DK35 because it's synchronized, but I've found the tractor will probably stop pretty quickly anyway when you start to shift, so maybe not such a big advantage?
I'm a big fan of the DK35 for it's size, hydraulic remote, 3pt hitch features etc., but there's certainly nothing wrong with the 3054XS TLB package. It's a great worker and would serve you well. John

depratt_equip · Apr 5, 2005

We have alot of 3054s out with BH's on them and the customers love them. The DK35 does have more bells and whistles but the LK3054XS will be your best value tractor. The DK35 does have the syncro shuttle but after you use the LK3054xs you will not even notice that it doesn't.