Comparison Standard vs premium tractors

[flynlow8740]

I have been considering buying a new tractor. I have green and orange dealers locally. If you compare a 3038E to a 3039R or a L3901 to a L4060 there are lots of differences, not the least of which are more weight, better hydraulics, and higher lift capacity. There may be some I am missing. Are the premium models worth it for the most part? I will be doing mostly mowing and road maintenance. My current tractor is a 1960 MF 35 diesel, so anything with power steering will be a major upgrade.

 

[gladehound]

Drive them all and see what you like in terms of ergonomics and ease of operation. Only you can judge what works for you. Also see if there are any other dealers around like LS or Kioti that will give you more premium features / capacity without the premium price.

 

[jaydee325]

The premium tractors are worth the extra money if the additional features you are getting matter to you.

I ended up with a premium model (LS R3039H) and I did consider the G series and liked the lower price. In my case, the G was all wrong for me from an ergonomics stand point. Seat was uncomfortable and loader joystick was in the wrong position (on loader frame).

I also looked at the Deere models you mentioned. Same issues, and the E series did not have split brakes, did not have quick attach loader, and the draw bar was an add on option.

 

[4570Man]

I like my L3240 a lot better than the L3800. The L3800 is depressing to use after running the L3240 for a while.

 

[flynlow8740]

It did seem odd that the Deere doesn't have split brakes or a loader that is removable. How much are steering brakes useful with four wheel drive and a loader? I am leaning orange because all the plastic on the JD seems crappy and the plastic hood on JD lawn tractor will not go the distance. And my Kubota dealer is better.

 

[art]

When considering a tractor the first thing you need to do is look at the jobs you might expect it to do. Mowing is normally the highest percentage of time so extra weight is a disadvantage! Remember that mowing will require a maneuverable tractor to get around things to possibly eliminate a trimming mower.
The different features of the deluxe to the standard issue is normally a personal preference with your thoughts on what is important. Bigger hydraulics can be a plus but higher loads normally cut the speed of the loader and for many applications greatly extending cycle times while moving things. One of the things I look at is the fit of the moving parts like on loaders, some are tight when on the tractors and some are actually loose in the mounts giving additional play to wear and possibly be sloppy after time.

 

[art]

It did seem odd that the Deere doesn't have split brakes or a loader that is removable. How much are steering brakes useful with four wheel drive and a loader?.

When steering brakes were extensively used on tractors they were two wheel drive! The weight of those tractors was 75% on the rear with 25% on the front. Typical four wheel drive before a loader is installed is 40% on the front and 60% on the rear. Now add the loader and you are about 50% on each end till you have a load in the bucket. So you want to turn with the brakes? For most it probably won't break until the warrantee is off!

 

[flynlow8740]

On my Massey Ferguson 35 I use the steering brakes often, both for turning and in mud on the wheel that is spinning as a diff lock of sorts. I would think on a modern tractor I would keep the pedals locked together most of the time.

 

[MF283]

The split brakes don't bother me, after 30+ years, i've always kept mine locked, guess you could say i'm in no hurry to go the other way.
Premium tractors generally have a better frame under them as well. As the other's have stated, go with the tractor that feels the best in the seat & the dealer that goes beyond making you happy.

Ronnie

 

[DK35vince]

I never seem to use the split brakes on my 4WD tractor. Never really feel the need.
For mowing a loader that removes/installs easily would be important IMO. (I nearly always mow with the loader off)
For me a SSQA (skid steer quick attach ) bucket is a must have on a loader.