Mainer needs a tractor and advice

[haszko]

I am looking at either a JD or Kubota, leaning towards Kubota though.

The property is in Maine, so snow is an issue. It's 10 acres of hillside and woods. I'll use the tractor for plowing (or blowing?) snow, clearing woods, regrading gravel drives (800ft worth), and all around landscaping.

I'm guessing that I will need something in the 30 hp range. The Kubota L-series seems likely with a FEL and rear mount blower. For summer, a bushog or rear mower as well.

Any advice for this Mainer and tractor-plebe??? /forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif /forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif

 

[JimMorrissey]

L3830 is the machine to get. Good fuel economy and a perfect power to size ratio IMO. I used one for exactly what you are talking about and was very happy with it. I traded it on a TLB because I have a construction project that required a backhoe. Excellent machine with either GST or HST transmission.

 

[Big_Daddy]

If the main job is snow removal. Why not save some money, stay warm in the winter, and cool in the summer! The new Kubota B3030HSTC is only $17,200. It weighs 2200lbs and is easy on the turf in the summer. When it's 20 below and the winds are howling I think I'd rather work on 800 ft of drive in comfort.....While listening to your favorite tunes. /forums/images/graemlins/smirk.gif

 

[JimMorrissey]

Depending on how big a person you are. They are definitely worth checking out. 3030 is a nice machine. Just need to make sure you feel comfortable in the relatively cramped cab.

 

[haszko]

Not a very big guy, so a cramped cab won't be an issue.

$$$ are the biggest concerns, but I figure that the money I'll save on paying someone to push rocks, dirt, and stumps around my lot will add up quite quickly.

Any thoughts on new/used?

 

[Jstpssng]

What part of Maine is your land located? I can name several good Kubota dealers; even refer you to their websites, as I'm always checking out the used equipment.

 

[haszko]

Western Maine -- Farmington area

 

[OrangeAlex]

</font><font color="blueclass=small">( I am looking at either a JD or Kubota, leaning towards Kubota though.

The property is in Maine, so snow is an issue. It's 10 acres of hillside and woods. I'll use the tractor for plowing (or blowing?) snow, clearing woods, regrading gravel drives (800ft worth), and all around landscaping.

I'm guessing that I will need something in the 30 hp range. The Kubota L-series seems likely with a FEL and rear mount blower. For summer, a bushog or rear mower as well.

Any advice for this Mainer and tractor-plebe??? /forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif /forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif )</font>
I think you are on the right track. I have about 20 acres woods 1500 ft driveway, etc, etc. The only exception is the snow which I have none around here. I am not sure how much PTO HP you need for running a snow blower in Maine. However with 10 acres and what you have to do I think 30HP would be plenty. Then again, I am clueless on this point.

BTW, I have found that working in the woods and lawn management is not always the same machine. My L series with R1 tires (which I need in MY woods) would trash up my lawn. Oh well, the price I pay for a machine able to work well in the woods in my area. Your milage may vary.

Good luck to you.

See this thread to see what I have. As you can see, from all the customizations done to the tractor, I have spent some time researching before buying it.
Shortened Long Link

 

[Jstpssng]

You're in a nice area.( I grew up down in Auburn.) You must have already been to Osgood's they will probably treat you as good as anyplace. When I was traveling through there I used to get parts there, or at Wallingford's, as both places seemed more accomodating than my local dealer.
just out of curiousity, what does a patent officer do? And do you have inventions of your own?
But you also may want to take a foliage trip to the coast, especially if you're buying used, Union tractor has a great selection.

 

[n4807g]

Hi...I live in NH near Mt. Monadnock. For the last 13 years I've been using a Belarus 572 to maintain a L*O*N*G over 1/4 mile drive. Here's your choice, snowblower, or loader and a rear grader blade. I can assure you of one thing, with a heavy machine the loader and blade will go much faster. I just bought a Farm Pro 8240. Basically the same size machine as the Belarus. With a Koyker 310 loader, delivered to New Hampshire $26,000. I've never owned smaller machines, but I can assure you of one thing; the extra weight of a big tractor goes a long way in most jobs. The heated & air conditioned cab is nice also and it's huge.