Stability of CK20S versus CK27

[Not Retired Yet]

I only get to the property about once a month and been clearing with a chainsaw, brush-blade and dragging with a 4-wheeler for the past year+. That and Island's pictures convinced me I could use a grapple (and the TnT box blade) a lot more than the backhoe. I spend more time getting stuff to the burn pile than I do cutting stuff down! :laughing:

 

[JonKioti]

Wow. Island made another grapple convert. I agree they look very useful.

I am now on my second CK-20 HST; I have the "S" model now. I sold my first one with a a Woods backhoe to get the Kioti backhoe. The Kioti backhoe has about 50% more reach and it was easier to sell the whole rig than just the backhoe.

If the dollars don't allow for the bigger machine, I'm sure you will find the CK20 to be everything you need. I certainly am the envy of anyone around who I've helped out this summer, including my friend who is clearing his land with an ATV and a wheelbarrow.

Bear in mind you will need higher door clearance for the CK27 if you are storing it inside. I looked at the CK27 when I replaced mine but decided I didn't need to modify my door a third time.

If you do buy the CK20 and really feel you shoud have got the 27, you will find a ready market for the CK20. The purchase of a particular model does not have to be permanent; that's how I got rid of that dent everyone puts in their hood when they try and lift a load of logs too high that one time.

Enjoy!

Jon

 

[Not Retired Yet]

Yeah it was the pictures of him picking up an entire brush pile - and me spending more and more time tying up brush and pulling it with the ATV then untying and tossing on the pile.... WAY more work than is needed!! :laughing: Ultimately it probably will come down to dollars - the best part is I know now that either can do a grapple and TnT! (Until I can clear a place for a barn, it'll be temporary tarp covers regardless so I guess I don't have to worry about adjusting the door height any.)

 

[bullet20]

almost bought the ck 20 but went with the 27 and love it .. now have the backhoe this week and several attachments,, a couple thousand dollars i think it gonna be worth it

 

[rimshot]

I have a CK20 (s) and could not be any more satisfied. I just about bought a Kubota BX25 which is certainly a fine machine also. I just completed a road and cleared a wooded lot with the Kioti CK-20. These were predominately mature trees made up of large Maple, Ash, Cedar and mature large Popple trees.

The CK20 never missed a beat removing every large or small stump that got in the way and there must have been dozens. If time is not a big deal the ck20 is practically just as capable (I believe) as the CK27. They truly are a couple of little tanks.

I'm going to erect a pole barn to use as a tractor cave for my little ck-20 and all the attachments. All things considered, I would repeat this purchase and choice of tractor in a heart beat.

rimshot

 

[tommaple]

Thanks to the information and opinions I've read on this site over the last month-and-a-half I went with a CK35. Primary reasons? 1) I wanted the three ranges in the transmission 2) I wanted the extra weight for stability when using the loader 3) Telescoping lower links and crank for the lift rod 4) Extra horsepower - I never heard anyone say they wished they had fewer horses under the hood 5) The extra length, width and larger tires also provide a more stable platform.
I only have 30 hours on the tractor but can say I think this size machine fits my needs quite well. I'm in the process of clearing property for a new house and this machine has been a dream to use. My old tractor, a 1949 Allis Chalmers Model B, is a real trooper, but the Kioti has me spoiled! Power steering, a 3 point hitch, 4WD, and front end loader are invaluable for clearing the house site. The CK35 has the power and traction (with R-4s, I hope I don't regret not having Ag tires when things get muddy) to skid logs and haul a 5,000 pound chipper up and down hills without breaking a sweat. It's not too big to get through the trees but has the strength to do the job.
I also got the Caroni TM1900 flail mower and the Kioti doesn't even work hard when chopping down three foot grass, mulitflower rose and honeysuckle brambles. I would recommend it. The tree cutting guys were impressed with what the CK35 could do. They usually use larger equipment for skidding and moving machinery. At first they were concerned it wouldn't do the job, but after seeing what it can do they agreed that it is a perfect size for this type of work.

 

[Not Retired Yet]

Thanks everyone - it's really nice knowing that either the 20s or the 27 can handle the grapple at one end and a top-n-tilt box blade at the other. I have a 6' and a 16' gate on the property and either tractor will fit through the 6' gate. Will the CK20s handle 5' attachments? I hope to get a box blade and a bush hog as both are needed (probably use the BB as ballast with loaded tires). I'd prefer 5' BB and hog so I can go through either gate. Can a CK20S handle them?

 

[IslandTractor]

CK20s matches up best with a 48" bush hog, 60" finish mower and either 48" or 60" box blade depending on soil type. 48 probably best for clay but in sandier soils the 60" would be fine. Add 12 inches and you get the implements for the 27.

 

[Zxyrthe]

@Rimshot -

What kind of snowblower do you have on your CK20?

Thanks!
Zxyrthe

 

[Not Retired Yet]

Thanks IT, so 4' no problem and 5' depending on ground or how much is attempted at one time. Another question, does the operator area seem to be roomy enough? I'm not a big guy but expect to be on it as much as possible each trip. (Haven't checked them out iin person yet because then waiting until a car is paid off would Really be tough!)