[Carlb]

On the face of it (HP) this may seem a mismatch. That is why I'm here. I live in Central Florida (Wildwood) and have 3 acres of pasture/trees/garden/greenhouse. Currently have 2 cows. 26 very large Oaks (greater than 50'). Planning to retire next year and enjoy some Dirt Time until Big Nap Time.

So, I know I could just Rent by the Job and get by. I Want to return to where I started (family farm). A working with a tractor are some of my best teen memories. I know I cursed it everyday but I've also missed that honest work to benefit feeling.

So, It comes down to JD 3038E with D160 FEL for $21,490 or Kubota L3301 with L525 FEL for $21,140. This is an Green vs Orange toss up.

There has to be more in this than 5HP difference. Both are HST, JD has 2 range (HI/LOW), 2 hydro pumps (steering/Implement) 38hp/30pto, knob control of PTO.
Kubota has 3 range (HI/MID/LOW), single hydro pump, 33hp/26.2pto, clutch slide control.

What else have I missed? Anyone with experience with one or both machines?

My uses are dirt moving, pasture mowing, wood chipping (16hp PTO min for chipper), rotovator for large gardens.

Thank you, Carl

 

[Upper5Percent]

3 acres?...Look at a John Deere Series 2

 

[johndgreen]

I have the 3038E and like it. I have 10 acres of orchard that I mow with rotary cutter and do occasional dirt work. The tractor is definitely up to the task. I would have liked to have gotten a 4 Series but just couldn't quite afford it at the time. Only reason to get a bigger tractor would be to cut down on mowing time. 10 acres is probably the max to use for this tractor so if you have 3 acres as the other poster mentioned, you could probably get by with a 1 or 2 series tractor. Good luck with your decision.

 

[steddy]

Kubota. I've used tractors with 2 and tractors with 3 range hydros. I'll take the 3 range every time, most other things considered. Sometimes, low is too slow and high is too fast. Medium so often just feels like it's a better fit for a lot of the work I do (Kubota L2800).

 

[CADplans]

When you retire, you have all the time in the world,,, why not shop for a used machine.

I got one this week,,, but,,, it did take some searching,,,,

it even came from a dealer,,, :swow: (my first purchase from a dealer in 30 years!!)

The "other guy" spent probably over $12,000 for 310 hours of use,,, (over $38 an hour)

I am so happy, I can let my daughters use it, without worrying about "new scratch" syndrome,,
THAT is critical to me,,, I have a couple machines NOBODY but me can use,,, :hide:

Really nice used machines show up in FL all the time!! :fing32: