NH TC33DA vs. Kubota L3130DT

[cknott]

Folks,

I am looking at the above tractors; 2004 NH TC33DA, 9x3 transmission, R4 tires, 14LA loader versus 2004 Kubota L3130 DT, R4 tires, LA513 loader. Could you tell me your thoughts on the comparison of these tractors. I will be maintaining 11 acres, mowing, thinning out woods, grading.... Please provide some pricing thoughts, local dealer quoting the above TC33DA at $17,200, Kubota L3130 at $16,700, down here in Northeast Georgia.

Separate note, for those who have hydrostatics, is there a secret other than doing trick feet work in order to engage a tight turn by using the right or left brake.

 

[JayC]

What's the DT transmission? I don't find it on Kubota's website. There is the GST transmission. To tell the truth, if I had to choose between the 9x3 transmission or the GST transmission, I would take the GST. Here is the description right from Kubota's website:

The Grand L30’s electronically controlled and clutchless GST gives you 12 forward and 8 reverse clutchless, shift-on-the-go gears using only one lever. And with the optional creep speed (ROPS model), the GST system can be upgraded to 24 forward and 16 reverse gears (standard on cab models). Quick, smooth and precise shifting virtually eliminates engine power loss during front loader or rear cutting work. More speeds reduce overall work time and fuel consumption for increased operating efficiency.

For more on the Grand L30's, here is the link:

Kubota Grand L30

Also, if you look at the stats, even though the 3130 is about the same HP, it seems to be a nice size bigger. I have never actually seen one in person, but the stats make it almost a large chassis CUT. The 3130 really blurres the line between mid-size and large-size.

To use the differential brakes on the single-pedal hydros, you would need to use the cruise control to effectively use them. The dual-pedal hydros have the brakes on the other side of the pedals. But, you would have to move up to the Class III Boomer for that. /forums/images/graemlins/tongue.gif /forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif

If you are new to CUTs I would recommend the HST. It is the easiest transmission to use with the shortest learning curve.

Whichever you choose, they are both good machines. /forums/images/graemlins/cool.gif

 

[froggy]

The DT model is 4wd.

It comes with either the HST (Feather-Step Hydrostatic Transmission), GST (Glide Shift Transmission), or FST (Fully Synchronized Main and Shuttle Transmission).

 

[OrangeGuy]

cknott,

Both are very good tractors, but for your 11 acres and the jobs you described I believe that the Kubota L3130 would edge out the NH. The Kubota physically is a much larger tractor; Length 124.2" vs 106.2", width 59.8" vs 54.3", wheel base 71.1" vs 63.0" and weight 3305 lbs vs 2474 lbs. These differences and the 30% larger hydraulic system (13.2 gpm vs 10.1 gpm) will make the 3130 a superior loader tractor. In addition, I believe you will find the fully synchonized transmission in the 3130 a much easier transmission to operate vs the TC33DA's sliding gear transmission, especially with loader work. The 3130s independent vs transmission/live PTO is a better and more modern system.

Based on the price quotes you received the Kubota is even priced better. The 3130 would be my recommendation.

To answer your question regarding the use of the individual brakes with the Kubota hydrostatic models, all you have to do is set the hydro in "cruise control" and you can operate either the right or left brake. Pushing both brakes overrides the cruise control and stops the tractor.

OrangeGuy

 

[cknott]

Thanks for all the info....I finally made a purchase, see attached picture to see what decision I made. If anyone would like purchase details, please post.

 

[JayC]

You made a fine choice. Congrats! /forums/images/graemlins/cool.gif

 

[OrangeGuy]

Congratulations on your purchase! I am sure you will get many hours of work/enjoyment out of this tractor.

OrangeGuy

 

[froggy]

Congratulations on your new Kubota. You won't regret it.

 

[rebeason]

Please provide purchase details, I am also looking at a NH vs a L3130DT, and need some pricing info.

 

[VTer]

Hi - If OrangeGuy is still out there, will you please explain the percieved benefits in the difference in PTO designs? These two tractors are my primary contenders at the moment. Thanks.

"The 3130s independent vs transmission/live PTO is a better and more modern system."