Some of the smaller features can be very big depending on your intended use.
For example,
1] tilt steering is a great feature if mowing is a consideration.
2] Telescoping 3pt hitch linkage is a big plus if you expect to own numerous rear end attachments.
3] hand operated, infinite speed, cruise control is a big plus for mowing
4] a center PTO is a big consideration if you ever expect to use a front end snow blower or a belly mower
5] HST vs gear is debatable. There are many supporters of both versions.
6] tractor *width* is very important if you have a hilly and uneven terrain and you use the FEL with some frequency.
***[7] H.P., in my opinion, is the variable that matters the most. You can never have enough H.P. [especially for PTO use and FEL lifting capacity] whereas you can have too much tractor. ***
Too much tractor, as explained to me by a friend, has to do with little jobs that occur in tighter spaces. Access is the key. Turning radius [keeping bucket swing in the equation] is a big factor. Tearing up the lawn due to tractor weight may be an important consideration. Storage is certainly important.
The
B3030 is a great starting point to begin your tractor pursuit. It has all the best features offered by Kubota. Is it too big, too small, or just right? Once you determine this answer, you are well on your way to identifying the perfect tractor for your property. Keep in mind that your property truly dictates the tractor needed. That's an objective match whereas we all fall prey to subjective thinking. ;-)
These are all the little things that come into play when making a selection. If you feel comfortable buying *used*, it will allow you to be far more selective. Your choice of tractors will increase which, in turn, will widen the selection of features to choose from. Of course, the newer Kubota tractors include many of these features as part of their standard package. In my opinion, I would begin with H.P. as the most important feature. Buy as much H.P. as you can afford while keeping these other features in mind.
All food for thought ....
Best of Luck!
The Gardener
