N3ra77,
I think you were on the right track with the Kubota
B2630. Big enough to do some serious work in your rough areas, yet capable on the lawn. Besides that you'd have the 3 range transmission and Position Control on the 3PH. The
B2630 might be a little marginal with a 5' rough cutter, but if you keep the weeds knocked down, it should handle it. A
B3030 might be a little better because of the extra HP. Only potential problem with the two is that they'll be little big if you've got a lot of obstructions and tight spots on your lawn.
As for 2-range HST vs. 3-range, I haven't seen the need for 3 ranges yet on my
B7610. However, my lawns are flat and well-drained but rough; so typically I'm content mowing in low range.
The only negative I can see with the Kubota Bxx20 series is the lack of Position Control on the 3PH. But for most people, the quarter inching valve approach is perfectly adequate. Having come at CUTs with a history of Ag tractors, PC on the 3PH is the norm with me....but I have 'gotten by' with the QI valve on my
B7610.
Something to look for would be a left over
B7510/7610. They were replaced by the
B20 series and the leftovers have been going at a good discount. They're both quite capable, but will be a little too small to pull a 5' brush cutter. They both have 2 speed HSTs and the QI valve on the 3PH.
Be advised that cutting an acre or two of brush with a 4' cutter and a small tractor can be quite tedious. Because of overlap, you'll only cut about 40" or so each pass, plus rough ground and small wheels will will force you to slow down to keep from being bounced around too much. In addition, you'll be right down there amongst all the weeds, seeds, pollen, and dust.....not fun.
If your wife is really into this and you think you may have to fight her for the tractor seat, you might want to consider a his-and-hers package: Maybe a little
BX1850 for the lawn and a larger
L2800/3400 for the rough work and bush hogging. No problem pulling a 5' cutter with the L series. Bet a dealer would cut you a very good price to move 2 units on a clean deal.
Hey, we're guys! It's our job to push the envelope.
FWIW
Bob