Which Model ??

fom · Jul 4, 2003

I'm new and originally posted this in the general catagory.Hope this is the propper place.Ive decided on a Kubota Grand series tractor but need some input on engine size and transmission.The primary use will be to rough cut 15-20 acres 3-4 times a year.the terrain is a mixture (hilly,rolling,flat).I'll also be working up an acre or two for food plots.Finally I'll rough cut an acre or so around the house.I can't justify a loader to my self at this time so I was considering the DT tranny.Initial thought was the 3430 but after searching this forum I'm wondering if I should get either a 3130 or 3830.I'd love to get some experienced feedback.Thanks in advance.

icat · Jul 4, 2003

Any of the three will do the job. The 3830 will easily pull a 6 foot cutter, the other two are only rated for the 5 footers (although many pull a 6 foot with the 3130 and do not have any issues). Most will tell you that the 3430, at only 2 hp more than the 3130, isn't worth the extra money - and I'll do the same. If you've already "budgeted" for the 3430, then I'd go ahead and spend the small additional bucks for the 3830. My land is similar in size (18 plus acres) and rolling also, but the majority is level. For me the L3130 is the perfect tractor. Your "needs" will dictate the correct tractor far better than what I have or any one else has. Welcome to TBN. /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

Deerlope · Jul 5, 2003

I recently purchased a Grand L 3830 with the glide shift and I do love it. It has plenty of power for all my attachment. I had been pulling a 5ft. rotary cutter with a 2010JD(gas). the pto needed rebuilding and I did not want to be the one to do it plus it had other problems and parts were getting hard to find.With the JD it took me 5 hours to rotary cut 7 acres, now I can do it in 2hrs with the 3830. /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif

popeye · Jul 5, 2003

The L3830 might be a better choice for pulling ground engagement implements (disc,plow etc.) they all take more hp. than mowing etc. I went with more hp. over transmission type and am very happy with my decision (MX5000 over L4310). I am planting food plots also and a garden for mom. There has been more than one instance where I was glad I had the extra hp.
Mike

fom · Jul 6, 2003

On the general discussion board where I originally posted this everyone is still recommending I get a FEL.I can see where it would come in handy but am having problems justifying the expense.What am I missing? Thanks for all the feedback.

popeye · Jul 6, 2003

It's hard to pin down one good reason to get an FEL. I generally use it everytime I crank the tractor. Either moving something, carrying something, picking something up. You will find after using a tractor with one on it you find more things to do with it. Just my .02
Mike

Deerlope · Jul 6, 2003

I would never own another tractor without a FEL. The uses you will find for it are to many to mention. I have a set of bolt on forks that I use for loading logs, take the bucket off and mount a blade for snow plowing (for thoses of us that have snow) Pile it as high as the FEL will reach. Just my 2cents. /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

icat · Jul 6, 2003

I use mine to "knock over" the larger diameter saplings when cutting. Then I can chop 'em up with the cutter. You can also use them to move brush piles, lift & move heavy items (sacks of concrete, shingles, etc.), or assist in pulling stumps. You can move rocks, mulch, manure, grass, dirt, etc.

All in all there plenty handy to have around.

40Kchicks · Jul 6, 2003

It's true. You really should get the loader. Financing has never been better and you will love it once you have it. In fact once you have one you will wonder how you did without it. If your going to have one tractor it should have a front end loader.

Eric

SageBrush · Jul 7, 2003

Very true, I couldnt imagine having a "small" tractor without a FEL, would not bush hog without it. Same goes for manual 4X4 wouldn't buy another tractor big or small without it, night and day differance.

The Kubota L tractors are great, the L3130 may leave you wanting more or may not. Size the tractor based on your implement needs. The L3830 will give you the higher rated 3 point found on the larger L30 tractors.