New to Tractors

jcraig · Jun 30, 2005

Hello. I am new the tractor purchase process. I purchased 37 acres in TN last fall. I have used a friend's JD 2355 (w/6ft rotary cutter) and also a JD 755 (w/4ft rotary cutter) to cut the 20+ acres of open areas. I feel like I need something a little bigger than the 755; maybe something in the 30-35 horse range; something to pull at least a medium duty 5ft cutter and definitely 4WD. I have looked at the JD 3320 and Kubota L2800 & L3400. Does anyone have any recommendations/suggestions with either of these models or other manufacturers with comparable models?

johan3400 · Jun 30, 2005

I would look at the L3400 or the John Deere 4310. Both would run the cutter you wish and are durable. The Kubota L2800 does not have the live PTO and I think you need that.

Soundguy · Jul 1, 2005

Mid 30's pto hp and up will move you into a 6' mower. 25-30pto hp will be better off with 5' if you have thick brush.

Don't forget to look at the NH TC 30 and 33 (35?)

Soundguy

gippolit · Jul 1, 2005

I would look the Kioti Ck30hst or the DK35 - 45

Regards;
Glen

Ledgemere Farm · Jul 1, 2005

I am totally biased toward green paint. My brothers, my father and I purchased 7 new JD tractors in the last three years. I seriously considered orange and I like orange, but the ridicule I would have received wasn't worth it. All in all, I am satisfied with green. Blue and red are nice, but there are no dealers within a reasonable commute from me. You need to go test the ones you mention, spend some time with the dealers and then buy whatever suits your fancy. Good luck. /forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif

frank_f15 · Jul 1, 2005

1st let me welcome you the forum /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif have you looked at antthing in the size you think you require? There is no better way to see what fits you than to plant you rear end in a seat and try them out. other than cutting what else are you intended uses for the tractor?

jcraig · Jul 1, 2005

Other than just sitting in the seat, I have not taken any test drives to date. Right now I have been in the research mode, trying to determine which make/models to look at more closely.

Other than cutting, I will need a finish mower for two acres or so. Not sure about a FEL yet. I know the FEL is useful but not sure it is in the budget right now. Is it better to go ahead and get the tractor with the FEL or add it later, assuming I purchase a tractor with the hydraulics already setup?

Also might use a box scraper for the road/drive and maybe even a post hole digger for fencing.

cruzr · Jul 2, 2005

All of the tractors mentioned will do a good job for what you want to do. There are differences in the control layout, features, comfort level, and just the feel of how the different functions operate. Test drive them all as much as possible, and you will then know whats right for you. Dealer reliability is very important also. If possible, purchase a loader with the tractor. You will get a better price if you buy them together. Implements such as mowers vary quite a bit in price. You can always shop around for them later, if your on a tight budget. The front loader is useful for a multitude of chores, and one of the most used implements in my opinion. Good luck in your search. /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

schole · Jul 3, 2005

Just putting in a good word for the L3400 (gears). Very tough machine...all power and few frills. I wouldn't go any smaller.

You might find a mid-40's hp machine ideal for your property?? I guess I am a bit biased toward more hp and getting things done a little more quickly.

Shawn