Need opinions on future tractor purchase.

[joshua5438]

I am looking to purchase my first tractor and have narrowed it down to a John Deere 3038E or a Kubota L3901. Both of these tractors seem to have a positive reputation in this size but I am trying to decide if one it better than the other for me. The biggest differences I see that drive me toward the Kubota is the quick attach loader, skid steer quick attach bucket, 3 range HST, 500lb additional tractor weight due to steel transmission. I have also read that the Kubota has the option for a backhoe and possibly a mid mount PTO for a belly mower? Other than these things what else would make you want to buy one or the other? I have always been drawn to Deere and I like the idea of the two separate pedals for forward/reverse. At this point that is the only thing I am seeing to make me want the Deere. I just want to get your opinions and make sure I am not missing something with either tractor.

 

[4570Man]

Before you come to a conclusion make sure you use the Kubota pedal right. You don’t put your whole foot on it like Deere suggest. You keep your heel on the floorboard. As far as I’m concerned 3 range HST, SSQA loader, heavier tractor is a clear win.

 

[JK22]

You forgot color!

 

[jeff9366]

VIDEO: John Deere 332E VS. Kubota L331 - YouTube

 

[prof fate]

I went with kioti (ck3510) for ergonomics as well as price.

Things i didn't like about the kubota were missing grab handles and fuel tank location. Unsure baout the pedal..I like the idea, had a cub cadet in the 60s that worked that way and was fine. The two pedal takes some getting used to - only because it's NOT like your car! Right is go, left is stop in a car...not so on a tractor!

I don't have a split brake pedal..had that on my kubota (gear shift) and liked it - got very used to it.

I got hst now and got cruise control so I don't have to keep my foot glued to the pedal when mowing.

how easy on/off is the MMM? For many activities you'll need to remove it...

I didn't look seriously at the Deere as the local dealer seems very anti-social..can't get a price, or any questions answered. Perhaps I didn't arrive in a high end pickup and was broomed because of it? Don't know..but other dealers were more than happy to take my money.

 

[Newby first timer]

If John Deere has not fixed it yet
The Kubota lets you lift and tilt and lower and tilt your front bucket at the same time

On the JD you actually have to stop and start each function Lift Stop Tilt Stop Lower Stop Tilt Stop.

This would drive my completely bonkers if I was trying to get something done before rain , Freeze or even before Dark.

Just a Thought.

 

[joshua5438]

Before you come to a conclusion make sure you use the Kubota pedal right. You don’t put your whole foot on it like Deere suggest. You keep your heel on the floorboard. As far as I’m concerned 3 range HST, SSQA loader, heavier tractor is a clear win.

I had seen videos like you explain and they do make it look more difficult that it should be. How does the separate brake pedals work? Only tractor I have ever used with two pedals was an old G John Deere. Lock up one brake and you could turn as sharp as you wanted. If the "gas" and brake are controlled by the same foot, how do you work with it?

 

[joshua5438]

You forgot color!

But I like Green!

 

[joshua5438]

VIDEO: John Deere 332E VS. Kubota L331 - YouTube

I had seen this video before. I wish they talked more about the Kubota instead of just bashing on the Deere. He mentioned it wasn't comparing apples to apples and I agree. But he should have done a little more comparing or brought the tractor out that he felt was more comparable.

 

[joshua5438]

I went with kioti (ck3510) for ergonomics as well as price.

Things i didn't like about the kubota were missing grab handles and fuel tank location. Unsure baout the pedal..I like the idea, had a cub cadet in the 60s that worked that way and was fine. The two pedal takes some getting used to - only because it's NOT like your car! Right is go, left is stop in a car...not so on a tractor!

I don't have a split brake pedal..had that on my kubota (gear shift) and liked it - got very used to it.

I got hst now and got cruise control so I don't have to keep my foot glued to the pedal when mowing.

how easy on/off is the MMM? For many activities you'll need to remove it...

I didn't look seriously at the Deere as the local dealer seems very anti-social..can't get a price, or any questions answered. Perhaps I didn't arrive in a high end pickup and was broomed because of it? Don't know..but other dealers were more than happy to take my money.

I think the pedals should have been reversed as to match a vehicle pedals. Just seems like a safety issue to me. But I do like the separate pedals.

What is the MMM?