New here and looking for the right Kubota

[jlemon]

Hi all. I've been looking around for a decent used tractor to take care of our drive year round. We have about 1/4 mile gravel driveway, about half along a field and half through the woods. Trying to find something big enough that I'm not over working it to death, preferably 4wd. Something that would handle a 5 foot scraper, box blade and a 3 point snowblower. I only have around $4000 to spend so I know choices are limited to something probably made in the 80's. I've been watching classifieds and all I've found in my price range is a few B6100 4wd, an L175 and L185 (both 2wd) and a B8200 4wd. What would be my best bang for the buck? The B6100 look nice but also look pretty small.

 

[hodge]

Personally, in order, I would look at the B8200 first, then the B6100, then the 2WD's. That's if you can't find any other candidates. You have a limited budget, so you need to find something that fits the money, is in as good a shape as possible, and is still supported by the market- parts are available.

Welcome to the forum! This is a great community.

 

[KJD455]

I would also first look at the b8200 then the b6100 and then the 2WDs. Because i would rather have a small 4wd than a 2wd

 

[Bluegill]

I took care of 10 acres, then a larger place for 20 years with a 2wd L245.
Nope, not ideal, but it got it done!

If in you shoes, I'd be looking for a 4wd Bota of 18 hp or more...

 

[North Idaho Wolfman]

Agree B8200 and then on down.

 

[Eric McCarthy]

Me I'd look at the L185 simply for the fact its heaver then the others. All I've ever ran was a 2wd tractor and can't really recall a moment when I wish or needed 4wd.

 

[Bluegill]

Me I'd look at the L185 simply for the fact its heaver then the others. All I've ever ran was a 2wd tractor and can't really recall a moment when I wish or needed 4wd.

I ran 2wd tractors for 20 years and always got-er-done. But the last 12
years or so with 4wd tractors have sure been nice!

 

[gpreuss]

I'm with Eric on this one. Traction is mostly a matter of weight, tire diameter and tread. The L185 gives you the weight and diameter over the others.
I used a L185DT for 35 years and never had a problem pushing, pulling, grading, and the like. I ran a 5' brush hog, but found myself in 1st or 2nd when the grass got really heavy. Ran a 40" tiller with no problem. Great tractor!
I saw a thread here in the last several days where someone had put industrial tires - I believe they were 15-19.5NHS - the same tire that comes on the L3200/L3800 or B3300SU - on a L175. Down the road that would be a hell of an upgrade!
http://www.orangetractortalks.com/forums/showthread.php?t=13035&highlight=counter+weight

 

[trouble11]

jlemon,
Welcome to OTT !!!