Used 3520 vs New 2720?

CinderSchnauzer · Mar 31, 2013

I have turf tires and mow with a CAB 3320 all the time - FEL on - Bucket off. Yes there is some soil compaction, but not that bad. If the lawn is not like a golf green, compaction may not be a large factor. Besides, a little compaction presents the opportunity to buy another accessoriy for the tractor - an aerator.
I have less than 5 acres and there have been several times when the lifting capacity of the 3320 has been stretched to the max or exceeded. The other, not so obvious thing that rarely gets mentioned when doing these comparisons, is that the 3x20 series will lift higher - not always a factor, but sometimes very important.

cartod · Mar 31, 2013

On my 5 acre plot I often use my 3320 to lift a lot, trees, rocks, dirt, pallets etc. I have another smaller mower for the details. I use the 3320 as primarily a tractor and brush hogger. Since I have r1's on it I keep it out of the yard when it's damp. There has never been a time when I wish I had less tractor!

In my opinion you just cannot have it all when it comes to a tractor. One that is great at mowing and easy on the lawn will be less than capable when the time comes for hard work. A man needs at least two!

bubbacuse77 · Mar 31, 2013

I think what everyone is trying to say is: only you are going to know what your needs are and how much you want to spend. I still think 22k is a little steep for the 2006 3520 with over 800 hours. That is almost exactly what that machine sold for new with a 300cx loader in 2006. Unless you have a big open yard you are not going to be happy mowing the lawn with a 3520.

fordmantpw · Mar 31, 2013

Another thought...I don't think you will be able to order a 2720 as it has been discontinued, so you would have to get one in stock. At least, that's what I've been told while looking into a 2x20.

bubbacuse77 · Mar 31, 2013

Realize the reason many of these units are changing is because of the tier four diesel regulations. If you can find a 2012, jump on it. The Diesel engine will run more efficiently plus I have heard of all kinds of issues with the new engines. I'm sure over time they will work out the kinks but why deal with it in the mean time.

fordmantpw · Mar 31, 2013

Bubbacuse, that's the same thing I'm going through right now. I was planning to buy in 18-24 months, but am considering pulling ahead my purchase to get a pre-Tier IV engine. I'm currently working on a possible deal with a 2520.

runin1320 · Mar 31, 2013

Well, stopped by and sat on them again today to make up my mind about the size. It helped to get on one without the FEL attached to get a feel for the increased visibilty for mowing without it. In the end, I will pass on the 3520 for $22k as it looks like it is pretty beat up and I'll begin my search for a 3X20! Down the road, I'll get a zero-turn to mow with.

Thanks again for all the input to help me make a decision!

CinderSchnauzer · Mar 31, 2013

With 5 acres and no mowing, it might be worth a look at something like this. 1,700 hours is not a big problem if the unit was not beat up along the way. For example, different circumstances, but my Silverado has over 2,500 hours and run great.

http://www.tractorhouse.com/listingsdetail/detail.aspx?OHID=7495513

bubbacuse77 · Mar 31, 2013

What happened to the 2720 idea? are you just giving up all together on a compact tractor for now? if you really like the 3520 and feel it suits your needs just look around on CL and tractor house. I bet you can find one that is in better shape and cheaper. I would sell you mine but that will happen only after I gasp my last breath.

Good Luck

bubbacuse77 · Mar 31, 2013

If your dealer doesn't have a 2012 2x20 series on the lot ask him to dealer trade for one. This is pretty common and if your dealer doesn't want to then go to a different dealer. the reason I drive past 4 JD dealer to deal with the one I deal with is because My salesperson (woman) is the most knowledgeable and fair. She always shoots me the best price up front and always makes sure it is what is right for me and not what makes the most money for the dealership. A good salesperson understands that customer satisfaction will lead to more sales down the line.