Cost of adding an L series loader?

[Sid Post]

I'm looking primarily at L3200/L3800 used tractors. What sort of cost and issues should I be aware of adding a loader to a tractor not so equipped from the start (or factory)? How does a factory loader compare to an aftermarket loader (Woods, Bush hog, Koyker, other)? What sort of cost and effort should I expect? Are any of them easier to install or remove then the others or have options I should be aware of? Are any of them 'capable' of a straight lift of up to 2,000 pounds (no movement just a lift to drive a pickup/trailer under/away)?

I am looking for a mow tractor (5 or 6 foot bush hog) that is capable of basic landscaping chores including light box blade work. Most loader work will involve moderate bucket loads of dirt, downed trees (cut up as necessary), and similar lifting loads cleaning up scrap material from an older homestead. Very few lifts will be heavy enough to stress the front end (moist dirt, scrap iron, similar). I'm expecting lift weights to be around 500 pounds or less average.

TIA,
Sid

p.s. I'm a total newbie to this class of tractor but, I grew up with big John Deere iron on a ranch/farm.

 

[Wildan]

I would guess a new Kubota loader for that series would be $6-7000.Don't know about after-market.I don't believe you could pick 2,000lbs with any loader you could put on a L that size.I have a L4240 with the 854 loader and I think would be hard pressed to make that lift.

 

[Bluegill]

L3200/3400/3800 isn't going to lift 2000 lb with a FEL, but will lift around 1000 lbs. You need a much larger tractor to lift 2000 lb.

You will be better off to buy a tractor with FEL, than one without and adding one. There is a reason the prices are so attractive on tractors with no FEL.

 

[Bluegill]

PS, the L3200/3800 will do all the other chores you listed and do them well. If you want 6' mower, the extra HP of the L3800 will be nice. Otherwise they all will handle a 5 footer just fine...

 

[Sid Post]

Thanks everyone! I'm a little surprised the Kubota loaders are that expensive. I thought I read somewhere that these loaders were around 2,000 lbs at the pin but, their lightweight made me wonder if they really could lift that sort of weight.

I'm sort of stuck between compact and standard utility size tractors. A bigger tractor is harder to use for mowing around trees and other obstacles but, it sure is nice having a bigger loader and the capacity to do more work with greater tractor weight and a little more engine power.

 

[olthumpa]

I recently asked a Kubota dealer this same question and he said that I would need a L4600 to lift 2000lb on a semi regular basis.

 

[Bluegill]

Thanks everyone! I'm a little surprised the Kubota loaders are that expensive. I thought I read somewhere that these loaders were around 2,000 lbs at the pin but, their lightweight made me wonder if they really could lift that sort of weight.

I'm sort of stuck between compact and standard utility size tractors. A bigger tractor is harder to use for mowing around trees and other obstacles but, it sure is nice having a bigger loader and the capacity to do more work with greater tractor weight and a little more engine power.

The last after market loader I bought was 23 years ago and cost around $4000. It was for a Case 950 and worked out great. Today I leave the loader off the tractors, unless I need the loader and the Kubota loaders are easy off, easy on. Takes 5 minutes. I would never go with a loader that was a pain to remove. I also will not mow with a loader on a tractor!!!

I've lifted a little over 1000 lb with FEL on my L3800, but well over 2000 lbs with the 3 pt hitch. I made a short boom pole like thing for the 3 pt and have lifted and moved anything I needed with it.

I also mow around a lot of trees and stuff in tight areas and the L3800 is a perfect size. It's also fantastic in the woods logging! I've been logging off and on to 23 years and the 3800 is the best rig I've ever used.

 

[Bluegill]

I probably push the L3800 too hard. But I do realize sometimes a larger tractor is needed. If that's the case I'd take a look at the L4600 and MX5100.

 

[North Idaho Wolfman]

You can get an after market loader for as little as $3540 new.
Specs say 1205lbs.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/ANSUNG-2540...R-KUBOTA-TRACTORS-/121013776630#ht_4430wt_922

It does look like a factory loader is hard too find for it.