New Tractor for Avocado Orchard

okgat · Jun 6, 2011

Planted 10 acres of avocados a couple years ago. Up until now, I have been using my NH 2910 with bucket to do all the work. When ground spraying the trees, it gets tiring having to use the clutch while spraying. (I am not a youngster any more.)

I have been looking at different compact tractors with a cab. I have my eye on a Kubota L3540. The dealer is asking $36,000 with a bucket and cab.

I am open to any suggestions. I am not sure if I need a new tractor or the size I am looking at is right. So my question is, with a 10 acres orchard, should I just stay with my 2910 or opt out for a new or (other brand, used etc)? tractor for the farm.

thanks.

NHSawyer · Jun 6, 2011

You might want to look into a Cub Cadet LX series with the power shuttle shift. No clutching necessary to start and stop. You can get one for around 21K with the FEL.

nybirdman · Jun 6, 2011

Nice tractor but the price is high.Go to Index of / and build your own.It came out to $33,200 list price for the HSTC with HD loader on the L3540.with R1 (ag) tires.You would like the HST for starting and stopping.
You should be able to get 10-15% off of list price.

okgat · Jun 6, 2011

Thank you very much for the information. I will take a look at the LX series tractors.

I will also look at the dealer pricing on the Kubota's.

charleyfarmall · Jun 6, 2011

What brand of tractors do you have within reasonable distance to you? All of the majors should have a cab tractor in your size range that you can compare.

The Kioti Dk35 HST Cab is one option. Good solid tractor, the cab is utilitarian in terms of trim.

The Deere 3520 ( or 3320 if you don't absolutely need all the hp) has a really nice cab and quiet too. Same Ballpark as the Grand L

The Grand L is a good tractor and very nice cab too. Ask the dealer about his price break down, but do it after you familiarize yourself with the list price on their website. I would do the same with Deere and I would let them know you are shopping their competitors for equivalent tractors and that you are ready to buy.

I just can't get over the yellow and black of the cub cadets. If you are spraying, you are wise to get a cab.

ayelvington · Jun 6, 2011

Orchard tractors are usually narrow with streamlined covers over the wheels to prevent snagging or damaging the trees. I recommend you grab a copy of Fruit Growers News or a similar magazine and check out the ads for orchard tractors.

I'm just say'n....