So, after using my 28xl for ten hours, here's my impression. First of all, I will say that I have no regrets on my purchase of the Mahindra Max 28xl shuttle. So if you don't like what I say, realize that I am trying to school potential buyers, not put down anyone else for their opinion. I think that this is the fun of these forums, to have and express your opinion. It is only my take on things and I respect the opinion of other owners. You'll notice that I don't compare it to other brands. Nor do I think that my opinion is the last word. Not hardly. I am just trying to start a conversation. I'm examining my tractor, not some other brand. They all have pluses and minuses I would imagine. I would like our tractor to be a little better than it is.
1. First, I think that the fit and finish is nothing exceptional, only average. Okay, maybe I am comparing brands...guilty as charged. But not really. I'm just not that impressed. With a BH and Loader, this is a $20k machine. Pretty serious money where I come from. The design is good, but there are some issues. An example is that it is awkward to check the oil in the engine. Another is that it doesn't have a cup holder. The reason for that is that this unit is a shuttle and the space is occupied by levers. Big deal? Not really, but it would be nice. Too hard?
2. No tool box. Remember, I said I wasn't comparing this to other brands. Others may not have one either, but it would be practical and convenient. Chains, a cresent wrench to spin the 3pt stabilizer?
3. Seat. The seat is an abortion. It has virtually no padding and is small. Let's face it, most of us that can afford these tractors have developed a fair size behind. Why? There is limited space to spin the seat around for using the BH. No excuse for the poor padding though.
4. Attaching a 3pt. attachment is difficult. The arms should have some passive/spring loaded arm that keeps them apart while backing up to an implement. This would help when the operator is alone.
5. The power of this machine is very good. It just won't quit. Remember, I have a shuttle transmission w/ clutch. The shuttle is not for everyone. It can be a little awkward to use for some.
6. Caps for the hydro hoses. There should be caps to cover the fittings when not in use. You can couple your fittings, but in my case, there is one left over.
7. Instruction/manual. I think that there should be a dvd with the manual. The manual is nothing exceptional. Actually, I found it lacking. The pictures were okay, but the extent of their information was weak. There is so much more that could and should be included. Very weak, indeed.
8. Hooks on the bucket. Okay, that's wishful thinking, but it would be useful and thoughtful.
So, hope I haven't pi**ed anyone off, but I still maintain that for $20k a tractor should do just a little bit better. As I said, I am pretty happy with my purchase, but a little more thought could have gone into what the customer needs.
I hope that I haven't aggravated anyone enough to do more than provide constructive input into improving an already excellent tractor. My hope is that we can have a constructive dialogue that improves an already fine tractor.
