Need Advice on small tractor (Cut/Subcut)

ncshooter · Apr 3, 2006

Hi everyone,
Need advice - opinions
I had posted a few months ago that my wife and I had looked at New Holland SCuts but now am opening up my search again. Here is the situation 2.5 acres 300 ft gravel driveway will use tractor for landscaping, driveway maintenance, other chores as needed. Am thinking rear mower instead of MMM. I am not great at wrenching and really don't have time for a lot so I am thinking new major brands.

Mavrik02 · Apr 3, 2006

Welcome to the forum. You have asked a very open ended question...we can't really tell you what to buy but we can help answer specific questions about each brand.

Personally I have been on the Kubota BX series and the Kioti CK20 tractors. They are both very nice tractors and can do all of what you mentioned. If you are looking for a SCUT and a RFM that seems a little unusual to me but others may know more.

Good luck.

flusher · Apr 3, 2006

I have a 21HP Kubota B7510HST with LA302 FEL for my 10-acres (flat, weeds, 30 almond trees remaining from an old orchard). Cost $12,600 plus tax last May.

With only 2.5 acres, I would suggest one of Kubota's BX series tractors with turf tires and an FEL. You will find uses for the FEL you can't even imagine now.

Don't know why you want to avoid a MMM. Makes it easy to mow around trees, planting beds, etc. compared to something on the back end of the tractor.

Of course, NH and JD have equivalents to the BX series that are just as good. It usually comes down to price and confidence in the dealer.

depasseg · Apr 3, 2006

Have you seen the Simplicity Legacy XL? It's not as well established on the forums as some of the other brands, but it will handle the chores you mention. It's also got a great 60" MMM. (http://www.simplicitymfg.com/legacy_xl.php)

Compact1 · Apr 3, 2006

ncshooter,

I have 3 acres and own a TC24DA with FEL and several ground engaging 3-pt. implements. I also have a 200+ foot gravel driveway and have used the tractor for extensive landscaping. It sounds like our requirements and conditions are quite similar.

I would not consider something smaller than my current tractor. In fact, I find myself wishing I had purchased the TC33DA instead for several reasons. Don't get me wrong - the 24 is a great tractor, however the extra horsepower would be nice.

My 24hp tractor has a 2-range transmission where the 33 has a 3-range. That middle range makes all the difference in the world. On my tractor, low range moves very slow and high range doesn't have enough power to do anything but move from point a to point b (unless your ground is flat).

The 24 will do most anything you need to do - it might just take a little longer. I have moved a lot of dirt, gravel, and trees. The FEL is very strong for such a small tractor and you will be amazed! A toothbar is a must in my opinion if you are digging into packed dirt or moving brush. I have also dug many holes with a 12" auger.

Remember, for guys like us with some minor construction or landscape work to perform; ground clearance is a factor. I'm not sure the ground clearance on a Subcut would be adequate for your needs.

You originally mentioned New Holland and there are currently great deals to be made on the TC24DA (0% for 60 months).

Good luck with your choice! /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

jbrumberg · Apr 4, 2006

ncshooter:
I have a NH TC29DA. It has the same dimensions as a TC24 and has a 3 range HST. I believe all the TC D series of tractors are 3 range HST. If you go this route I would advise R-4's or turf tires as R-1's will chew up your yard. Good luck. Jay