Plastic vs. Metal Hoods, Fenders, etc.

grwoolf · Jun 13, 2005

I'm looking at new Kubota, NH, and JD compacts and wondering how the newer materials stack up against steel. Of course, the Kubota dealer says how great steel is, and the others talk about the benefits of plastic panels. In general, I think I like the plastic since it can't rust or dent, but I am concerned about longevity. My tractor will be parked outside in the Texas sun and I wonder how the plastic will hold up. I know paint will fade eventually. I assume the plastic will also fade. Will it crack? Does anyone know the expected life of these newer plastic body panels?

frank_f15 · Jun 13, 2005

To tell the truth i would not worry about it! all will fade in the hot sun, steel will dent, plastic will crack if hit hard. get the tractor u like and works best for you, don't get hung up on the body panels.

Bob_Skurka · Jun 13, 2005

I don't know how long it will hold up.

What I do know is that there is a $400 dent in the hood of the B2910 and chunks of clay have just bounced off the hood of the TC24. Now I presume that a good size heavy rock would crack the TC's plastic hood, but maybe not? I know a tree branch bounced off the right rear fender without so much as a scratch.

Personally I think both are probably good. Each has its advantages, and each has its disadvantages.

txdon · Jun 13, 2005

"My tractor will be parked outside in the Texas sun.." 

How cruel. /forums/images/graemlins/mad.gif

May have to report you to P. E. T. A. (Prevent and End Tractor Abuse)

I had the same concern, seems like most plastic deteriorates over time (especially in direct 110 degree Texas heat and sun).

I wonder if tractor plastic is different? Time will tell....

rockyridgefarm · Jun 13, 2005

I absolutely LOVE the plastic that is on my Deere. You wouldn't want the kinda stuff that this thing has shrugged off hitting your head. And I doubt that metal mould look as good as this does...

But if I were in the situation where it had to be parked in the texas sun, I would consider some kind of cover. I have a portable cover from Sam's that was given to me, and I am surprised at how well it has held up.
I did use the best wax I could find on my tractor when it was new. I think i will give it another coat soon.

But None of this is to suggest that the metal hoods on Kubotas are junk. They build a great machine

Even if the seats are black... /forums/images/graemlins/shocked.gif /forums/images/graemlins/shocked.gif

frank_f15 · Jun 13, 2005

( (especially in direct 110 degree Texas heat and sun).
)
FORGET WHAT IT DOES TO PLASTIC, what does it do to you poor folks that live there? /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

_RaT_ · Jun 13, 2005

FORGET WHAT IT DOES TO PLASTIC, what does it do to you poor folks that live there? 

Thats true, it even spreads into parts of Oklahoma. The problem with some plastic hoods is that they only come with yellow seats, thats where the real problem is.

I would not have a problem with either material. If I had a preference, I'd probably choose plastic if I thought it was really important. I don't, mine is steel or should I say sheet metal of the thin variety. I just don't care and try to make sure that stuff does not drop on it.

txdon · Jun 13, 2005

"...what does it do to you poor folks that live there." 

We have metal canopies that protect our plastic heads. /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

Never have seen a plastic roof, wonder why?

(EDIT: Mike, I kept my 1986 Pontiac Grand AM till 2001, the plastic side panels looked bad, paint came off and cracks all over. The metal still looked great.)

PineRidge · Jun 13, 2005

I agree with Frank, don't get to hung up on the metal/plastic decision just get whats good for you as far as the tractor goes.

They are making all sorts of things out of plastic these days including lower door panels and trim for automobiles with very good sucess.

hudr · Jun 13, 2005

I don't see a big difference. Steel will dent and stay dented. Plastic will bounce back (or crack if pushed hard enough.) The biggest thing to worry about here in TX is UV exposure. That is what is hard on all rubber products. If it is going to be stored outside I would at least get something to put over the seat, that is what will give up quickest when exposed to UV. I keep my tractor under a shed and so far have little sign of weather cracking on tires and none on my seat. Also, it seems the setting sun is harder on them. I guess since it has had all day to heat up first. We never wear out tires on our tractors, they either dry rot from UV or we run over something. My .02, don't worry about plastic or steel as a major buying decision. Get the best tool for the job and try to keep the big sun off of whatever you end up with.