Buying Advice MF GC2400-- convince me

[traction]

I'm new to this site, and I'm interested in getting a subcompact machine. I'm currently running a 10 yr old Craftsman lawn tractor and want to bump it up a good bit to better handle the couple acres of fun I have to deal with every weekend. So far I've only looked at Kubota, but I stopped by a Massey dealer to take a peek at the GC2400 (none on site but one is coming). For those who have this machine or another in the GC series, please tell me why I should buy it? How have you tested its limits/what have you done with it? What convinced you it was the right machine? Thanks for the input.

 

[tsteahr]

To be honest, I think you need to convince yourself. Once a GC becomes available, look it over for yourself then get on the machine and drive it yourself. I suspect it will become quickly apparent which you prefer. Both are excellent machines (BX and GC) but each has a little different ergonomic feel and a little different character when operating. The engines are a little different, the hydraulics respond a little different, controls and dash are a little different. Try them both and you will know in short order.

 

[jaybrad]

tsteahr - well said.

I went through that drill and worked a few different tractors before settling on my GC2310. For me the physical fit was better and I liked the extra hydraulic power at lower RPMs on the Massey. I've got about 100 hours on it now and never regretted my decision.

I also have friends who went through a similar process and seem to be equally happy with their Kubotas.

So as they say, YMMV.

Good luck!

Jay

 

[bp fick]

Finally, it may come down to which dealer too!!! In some places, there just aren't the options locally.

 

[MF RED in MT]

Hey Traction, welcome to TBN and I agree with the above post, you are the one that will make that final decision. I looked at all the different colors last year and MF financing for 6 years at 0% allowed me to add an additional attachment and still stay in my monthly payment budget that I wanted. I also was impressed by the MF 2410 vs. K BX video on the MF web site. I would of thought the the orange guys would of done their own video, but then again, the MF video had a lot of great points regarding some differences . Go log on to the MF site and watch that video. Another factor in making your choice is the cost, there are tractors that are cheaper then the MF, but I feel you get what you pay for in the long run. The final point that worked for me was MF has been in business for 160 years and is still an American Headquartered compamy located in Duluth, Ga . What ever you decide, I am sure you will be happy with your new tractor. KC

 

[bmarian]

Hi Traction,

I purchased a MF GC2410 just over a year ago and there were many factors that went into my purchase. I looked at the Kubota, John Deere and Massey Ferguson. The Kubota and John Deere dealers are much closer than my Massey dealer so the Massey was down on points there. But my Massey Dealer is also a John Deere dealer so I could look at both tractors side by side. I was looking for a Tractor Loader Backhoe so some of my observations might not be relevant if you are not getting the loader or backhoe. The loader on the Massey has the hydraulic lines much better protected and they are steel instead of hose on the loader arms. This plus the loader arms are welded 100% on all seams and the easier disconnect lent a lot of confidence in the Massey. The backhoe was also much better constructed on the Massey, all the welds are 100% and the metal backhoe mount (and disconnect) is much better on the Massey than the other 2. Finally what was easily the decision maker was the hydraulic power at idle. My Massey will lift itself off the ground with the loader and backhoe at idle and the Deere needed the engine run up a little, the Kubota needed the engine singing to just move the tractor off the ground. I think the Kubota needed 2000 rpm to just move the cylinders with the tractor load. So the Massey was better build, more comfortable, quieter and had a engine that worked well at a lower RPM which I figure means better fuel economy.

What the others have said is very true about how the tractor feels, the backhoe controls on the Massey were much smoother than the others and for each and every point I looked at the Massey was the winner. Metal hood on the Massey is nice, the joystick on the Massey worked the best.

Look at the Deere too, them more I looked the better the Massey looked to me so that's what I bought. And the price difference between the 3 is not enough to matter over the live of the tractor.

Bruce

 

[traction]

Thanks folks for the comments. I know you're right about me getting on the machines themselves. While I wait for the GC2400 to come in to the dealer, I'm going to pop over to the local John Deere dealer and give one of their machines a spin.

I am getting the loader, but won't get the backhoe. I'm still pondering if other implements make sense now (we've had a small garden up to this point, but I'd like to increase it). Any good sources?

 

[traction]

After posting this original thread, I got out to the dealers and looked at New Holland, Kubota, Deere and Massey Ferguson. After a few test drives, I ended up getting the GC2400, and it was delivered last week. I've put almost seven hours on it the last couple days moving some earth. Although the wife and I have had our discussions about whether we should have gotten something in the 1500 series, I think we'll be thrilled with this purchase for years to come.

 

[tsteahr]

Congrats on your new machine! Looks great. Let the fun begin!

 

[dieselfreak]

After posting this original thread, I got out to the dealers and looked at New Holland, Kubota, Deere and Massey Ferguson. After a few test drives, I ended up getting the GC2400, and it was delivered last week. I've put almost seven hours on it the last couple days moving some earth. Although the wife and I have had our discussions about whether we should have gotten something in the 1500 series, I think we'll be thrilled with this purchase for years to come.

View attachment 159348

Nice tractor, and nice shop!! Got any more pics??



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