Which dealer options for new BX1870?

[JackJ]

I'm pretty set on a BX1870 with turf tires, FEL, and 48" deck, leaning toward the Fine Cut to be able to add the mulch kit.

With price definitely being a factor, I'm wondering what other options I should consider adding at the time of purchase, and have some questions about what they list on the Build My Kubota site.

--Tire ballast. Both dealers I've talked to recommend this when getting the loader--one uses Rim Guard, the other said they've never heard of Rim Guard (which surprised me) and uses a methanol mix. I know I get more weight and less toxicity with Rim Guard, but methanol seems like it will work almost as well. Is this significant?

--Quick hitch on loader. Don't see using pallet forks, but could consider a front blade down the road. Any downsides to going with the quick front hitch apart from the cost ($279)? Leaning against this option, but don't want to regret not getting it later.

--OEM rear wheel weights. With ballasted tires and the ability to add more weight on the 3ph, these don't seem necessary. On the other hand, they're only $60. Not sure how much weight they add, or what it's like to install/remove if I want them off for summer mowing. Anyone use these?

--Grille Guard. $162. Seems like this is a good idea, but don't know for sure, and wonder about aftermarket options. They're all ugly, as far as I'm concerned, but a lot less ugly than a dented hood. Thoughts on this?

--Lights. Not leaning toward the factory options here, since I've seen mention of some aftermarket items that look better/cheaper. But don't know for sure. Doubt I'll use them much before next winter, so no rush unless there's some reason for dealer to install for me.

--Tool box kit ($65) and ROPS organizer ($57). Will definitely want a tool box, at least. But again, not sure how these OEM items compare to aftermarket

Wondering what else I might need on day one, apart from a diesel fuel container. I expect to get a receiver hitch, box blade and 3 point hitch carry all in the next few months, and looking at skid plates and three point quick hitches, too.

Thanks for any insights--this will be my first purchase of a new tractor, first FEL, and first diesel. I've got lots of stuff to get up to speed on, and appreciate any help!

Jack

 

[Dr Honda]

My responses are in red....

I'm pretty set on a BX1870 with turf tires, FEL, and 48" deck, leaning toward the Fine Cut to be able to add the mulch kit.

With price definitely being a factor, I'm wondering what other options I should consider adding at the time of purchase, and have some questions about what they list on the Build My Kubota site.

--Tire ballast. Both dealers I've talked to recommend this when getting the loader--one uses Rim Guard, the other said they've never heard of Rim Guard (which surprised me) and uses a methanol mix. I know I get more weight and less toxicity with Rim Guard, but methanol seems like it will work almost as well. Is this significant?

My dealer just uses washer fluid. But more importantly... it wasn't an extra charge to fill my tires. He told me that they always fill tires when people order a FEL. He also said it won't rust the wheels. I'm sure if your dealer is using a special product... they are charging to put it in.

--Quick hitch on loader. Don't see using pallet forks, but could consider a front blade down the road. Any downsides to going with the quick front hitch apart from the cost ($279)? Leaning against this option, but don't want to regret not getting it later.

I thought about that one too. BUT... I don't have any other implements... so I'm sure it would have been $$ wasted. I have a plow on my RZR, so I won't be getting that for my tractor, and I've thought of forks... but I think I'm going to build a set that mount in the bucket. That way, they will work for brush too. The BX can't lift all that much, so heavy forks is also a waste.

--OEM rear wheel weights. With ballasted tires and the ability to add more weight on the 3ph, these don't seem necessary. On the other hand, they're only $60. Not sure how much weight they add, or what it's like to install/remove if I want them off for summer mowing. Anyone use these?


I guess they are cheap enough to try, and if you don't like them... it's not the end of the world. But looking at my wheels... they may be a pain to put on and off. (there's no threaded holes, so you have to hold the weight, and put the bolts/nuts on the back) Also... when working with the FEL, you want the weight as far back as you can get it. SO, it's up to you.

--Grille Guard. $162. Seems like this is a good idea, but don't know for sure, and wonder about aftermarket options. They're all ugly, as far as I'm concerned, but a lot less ugly than a dented hood. Thoughts on this?

To me it's not only a waste... but a pain. Basically, it's to keep you from crushing your grill when you put the FEL on/off. BUT... if you are careful, that won't happen. I actually park my tractor in my FEL frame, every time I put it in the garage. (my FEL is disconnected most of the summer, since I don't want the weight when mowing) Then, if you want to service your tractor... you have to remove the guard to get the engine cover off.

--Lights. Not leaning toward the factory options here, since I've seen mention of some aftermarket items that look better/cheaper. But don't know for sure. Doubt I'll use them much before next winter, so no rush unless there's some reason for dealer to install for me.


I don't do too much after dark, so that one is up to you.

--Tool box kit ($65) and ROPS organizer ($57). Will definitely want a tool box, at least. But again, not sure how these OEM items compare to aftermarket

I'm looking at options for this myself. The BX doesn't have much room, and I don't want something that will be in my way. I'm not a fan of the factory tool box... but I don't know if I've seen the "ROPS Organizer". I'll have to check it out. I'm thinking about making a couple brackets, and mounting an amo box to the holes in the seat, that were meant for the arm-rests.

Wondering what else I might need on day one, apart from a diesel fuel container. I expect to get a receiver hitch, box blade and 3 point hitch carry all in the next few months, and looking at skid plates and three point quick hitches, too.


FYI... I used a $15 hitch from harbor freight. I think it was meant for a truck bumper... but it's basically a flat plate. All you do is remove the bottom frame plate, and bolt this one on. (you need a few new holes in the hitch)

http://www.harborfreight.com/3500-lb-capacity-step-bumper-receiver-67159.html


Thanks for any insights--this will be my first purchase of a new tractor, first FEL, and first diesel. I've got lots of stuff to get up to speed on, and appreciate any help!

Jack

Hope that helps

 

[Dr Honda]

Just looked at the ROPS organizer. I don't think that would work for me either, since my ROPS is down more than it's up. I know... don't yell at me... but I simply don't need it when I'm mowing, and it has to be down to clear my garage, or Barn. (I put it up when using the FEL)

 

[85Hokie]

Jack,

Honda covered it well .....

I agree that washer fluid (methanol) is better than nothing - I have that from the dealer for a free option too - rimguard is super nice stuff and more pounds per gallon - but for the price and the weight difference - Ill go with the washer fluid.

as for grill guard - I like mine - but it has to come off change the oil and what not, other than weight and show, it really serves me no purpose.

on the ROPS storage - I bought four of these - and real large zip ties they stay put throughout all kinds of shaking about!

http://www.agrisupply.com/manual-canister-large/p/67670/

As for lights - I would rather do that myself for a fraction of the cost and look and operate better to boot.

As for a receiver hitch - make one or buy one that can double as added ballast to the rear. Use it when you need it - take it off when you do not.

AS for you quick hitch loader - if you plan on taking the loader off more than a couple of times a year, get it - I dont have one, but if I was taking my loader off a lot - I would have one .....

my 2 little pennies worth!

 

[Grouse Feathers]

If you ever decide you need forks, the add on to the bucket forks work better than the quick attach forks for a BX. The quick attach forks are heavy, expensive, and use up to much of your lift capacity. There are also options to add a snow blade to the bucket of the fel:
http://bxpanded.com/index.php?l=product_detail&p=23
You might want to take your time for snow removal to see how much you can do with the fel and a rear blade. It will depend on how much snow you get and how much driveway you have.
Most of the small add-on stuff you can search in OTT and see what others have done. You can usually find a better and cheaper option than what the dealer supplies.
If you are thinking new for implements, you might consider buying with the tractor so you get the zero % financing. Used will usually be cheaper if you have the time to look for what you want and the deal you want.

 

[tinkerwitheverything]

If your referring to the quick hitch for the bucket /to change to forks etc: I had gotten one tried it out and didn't like it.My reason is simply this the quick hitch attachment on the loader move's your bucket ahead by 2" so it adds more weight to the front also being further ahead it makes it heavier to lift. Think see saw effect. you also lose some break out force as well as your dump angle isn't quite as much as it is without the quick attach.That's why I returned mine to the Dealer, He let me try it out first because he said he didn't think I'd be happy with it. And he was right.

 

[TripleR]

--Tire ballast.

My dealer only uses windshield washer fluid, we use it in all our tractors.

--Quick hitch on loader.

That's a tough one, I don't have one and haven't missed it, but we have other tractors. Good and bad have been mentioned, so a real toss up though as both points have their merit.

--OEM rear wheel weights.

No real need with ballast in the tires, I have them on our BX2660 and fluid in our BX2200. I do have both in my 5740, but that's different.

--Grille Guard.

My 2660 came with one and I bought one of these for our BX2200, we mow brush and grand kids mow with ours, so we need the protection.: http://www.fabworksoem.net/kubota_bxb2_3.php

--Lights.

I'd go with aftermarket.

--Tool box kit ($65) and ROPS organizer ($57).

I don't use either, so don't know.

Wondering what else I might need on day one.

Definitely a skid plate and I like a receiver hitch. While not necessary, but handy as heck a set of telescoping stabilizer bars from Mark Hodge.

 

[RonBoyBX25D]

If you are going to dig much with theloader I would recommend a Piranha Tooth Bar from BXpanded. Really helps these little tractors to dig.

 

[William1]

Tire ballast, my dealer also put it in automatically, uses beet juice.

I have the FEL QH. I can take the bucket off in two minutes and back on in two minutes. I also bought a rear blade. These were two of the cheapest accessries I could get and qualify for the Kubota discount for buying two at the time of tractor purchase.

I have the Kubotas ROPS mounts tool box. The box itself is cheap plastic. But the mount is nice and sturdy. I got rid of the plastic box and replaced it with a ammo can.

I have a receiver front and rear. I also have a winch on a receiver bracket and power cabling front and rear. Nice when you want to pull something for for when some idiot (what, me worry?) gets stuck in mud.

Get skid plates.

Lights, wait. You may not need them. I know I won't. tomorrow is another day.

 

[Martywoodburner]

Just a thought but for all that you are looking at you might just want to move up to the BX 2370 vs the 1870. It's worth a look.

 

[stutrac]

for my BX 1870 i ordered

rear weight box,i did not want to carry more weight all the time with the tires filled with beat juice since i will be mowing 90% of the time
front tie down brackets
OEM work lights
tripple bagger
48 mower
front loader

 

[JackJ]

Thanks for all the great advice--very helpful to me.

As for looking at the 2370 over the 1870: I've been agonizing on this. I'm willing to pay for the extra hp and would appreciate the nicer seat, standard cruise, and other minor amenities. But the flipside is that I really want a 48" deck to maneuver between flower beds, trees, and trails that connect sections of my property. 54" is bigger enough that I'd have to make some significant changes, and with less than an acre to mow (out of 5 acres total), I'm not looking for a quicker mowing experience. Also, Dr. Honda and other 1870 owners are all telling me that they have no regrets on going with the runt of the BX litter. I'm pretty sure I'll be fine with it, too, since I'm not planning on running much in the way of PTO implements. But still a difficult call for me, having just sold a 22HP Sears lawnmower to spend almost 10 times as much on an 18 HP Kubota. Not apples to apples, of course, but still....

Glad to know the quick front hitch adds extra length--that kills it for me right now since I'm already going to be very tight in the garage with the loader attached.

Ballast--my local dealer who said they use methanol also mentioned wiper fluid, so I'm pretty sure that's what they put in, and I got the sense it was at no charge when getting the loader.

Grill guard--glad to know it's not a must have, but I think I'll get the aftermarket model with the receive hitch for peace of mind--I move a lot of firewood through the woods. I know I have to be very careful with this, but could see making unanticipated contact with a tree or limb.

Skid plate--leaning toward the BXpanded model, but the two part Bro-Tek is clearly a good option too, esp. since a section can stay on with the deck in place, providing further protection.

Might get the BXpanded tool box too--I like the idea of having two boxes I can switch out: One for firewood duties with a scrench, stump vise, file, Silky saw, etc; and one for summertime more gardening oriented. But that thermos-looking canister is tempting, too, and a great price.

Still have to decide on which 48" deck to get, fine cut or regular, with the factor being a mulch plug that I'd like to have. Waiting to hear back from my insurance agent on what my homeowner's will cover here. And then whether I want to finance at the Kubota 0%. Very tempting, but need to know just how much that will cost me, esp. if I need go get Kubota insurance.

Hoping to make the deal this Friday.

 

[stutrac]

I agree i went through same hard process of choosing a tractor, i went from looking at zero turn mowers around $11k to the BX 1870 around $12K both are close in price with the options i need, so dollar for dollar in was a easy choice go with the 1870, i do not own a farm or have lots of land, so for me spend the difference in buying a 2370 i would rather have the cash on hand, and anyway if i need and i buy a bigger house with land or start a small business i could just trade up to a bigger machine. my 2 cts

 

[Grouse Feathers]

Thanks for all the great advice--very helpful to me.

As for looking at the 2370 over the 1870: I've been agonizing on this. I'm willing to pay for the extra hp and would appreciate the nicer seat, standard cruise, and other minor amenities. But the flipside is that I really want a 48" deck to maneuver between flower beds, trees, and trails that connect sections of my property. 54" is bigger enough that I'd have to make some significant changes, and with less than an acre to mow (out of 5 acres total), I'm not looking for a quicker mowing experience. Also, Dr. Honda and other 1870 owners are all telling me that they have no regrets on going with the runt of the BX litter. I'm pretty sure I'll be fine with it, too, since I'm not planning on running much in the way of PTO implements. But still a difficult call for me, having just sold a 22HP Sears lawnmower to spend almost 10 times as much on an 18 HP Kubota. Not apples to apples, of course, but still....



Waiting to hear back from my insurance agent on what my homeowner's will cover here. And then whether I want to finance at the Kubota 0%. Very tempting, but need to know just how much that will cost me, esp. if I need go get Kubota insurance.

I have a BX2370 no mowing, mostly road grading, snowblowing, and when ever a fel can make life easier. I think you are right on with the 1870 as the biggest gain with a 2370 is more pto power. The next big gain is the B series and that requires a bigger justification then I can make.

An 18hp diesel will work circles around a 22hp garden tractor and you have not begun to dream up all the uses for the front end loader. Even if it is just a powered wheel barrow it's a way better wheel barrow than a one wheeled two handed wheel barrow.

Don't forget any implements you want in the near future can be bought now on the same 0% interest.

If you ever plan on having your tractor on the road, most home owners insurance will not cover it. Kubota insurance covers just about everything, and in most cases real close to the same cost.