Still looking! - Machine Underground -Tractor & Commercial Equipment Discussion Forum

**gunmaker** · 08-02-2008, 07:21 PM

Took a closer look

at the Kubotas today. Wish the dealer had been a bit more helpful

, I still haven't been able to operate one. The L39 looks good, size is about right, but I'm still kinda leaning towards HST. The B26 is a-bit too small, the M59 is a dream, but only if I was gonna go commercial. I like the L48, it's a bit bigger than I need but what the heck, it's got HST and may be a possibility.
I think part of my concern going with the orange line is that I'm kinda stepping into the commercial line a little more than I need.
Something Chris posted way back keeps sticking in my mind (scary

) about the importance of its real function.

Right now I'm vacilating

between the L39/L48 or the 3320. Gotta get some seat time

from the dealer and read some more.

**Ducati996** · 08-02-2008, 08:37 PM

Not sure if you can find a stready supply of new L48 anymore - i would think they are getting hard to find. However if you do find one - its something that should be seriously considered, and of course the L39 which is plentifully. The 3320 is a toy compared to these (its a great machine in its own right, but not in the same category). Keep in mind you dont have to use it commerically to justify these machines - if what you need it for is for heavy use and extra muscle then its reason enough. Plenty of folks with these machines in a non-commericial role, being used all the time.
I think I have at least 15-20 hrs so far on my L39, Im learning to trust the auto level so much more and not spill a bucket. Its nice to be able to load a bucket, bring it full height, dump and be on my way. GST is just like a car, direction wise, no clutch and no big deal and almost as fast as a HST. Right now its works great moving logs (loading/unloading) for the upcoming season using the grapple and bucket

**Chris2520** · 08-04-2008, 04:25 AM

Craig the L39 would be perfect for you. dont worry about the GST.
it is great. you will not miss the HST. and it will do so much more
than the 3320. just go drive one. and you will see.

Chris....

Sylvain · 08-11-2008, 12:56 PM

Hi Gunmaker, I have a 2008 B26, have done some hard work with it...

Dig and Moved with the front bucket about 100 yards of earth, moved 800 pounds + rocks, dig (11) 30" maple tree stumps (when pulled out, about 12 feet diameter) Also did some spreading of crushed stoned...

I did have to dig around the stump but not that much, it had the strength to pull it out quite fast. The stumps where so heavy that they where lifting the front of the tractor… To me that’s plenty of power for the size…

The tractor is smaller than the L39 but it's so strong. It will dig the same as the L39 but might be a little slower at it because it takes smaller bites.

Even the dealer told me the B26 could be overkill for me and that a BX23-24 could of done the same...

For big jobs I would get a case 580 or CAT 420, nothings come close to performing like these big brothers in the smaller TLB. But for smaller jobs, small B-26 will be more than enough and won’t damage the terrain.

As for HST / GST, I like the HST better; I find it more maneuverable around the tight corners and around my cars in the driveway etc… We had close to 20 feet of snow last year and I loved the HST then. Also HST is easier to operate for junior operators like me J, the one downfall to HST is the loss of power while operating hydraulics. On the other hand, GST takes less power to move the machine while operating the hydraulics so it makes it stronger but less maneuverable in tight spaces, no room for mistakes...

Best thing is to try it at the dealer. Try the bucket and the backhoe. Try both HST and GST.

Cheers,

Sylvain

**gunmaker** · 08-12-2008, 09:16 AM

I appreciate the info...I'm still going back and forth. I like HST better than GST, but experience will help me decide if I want to switch.

**Ducati996** · 08-12-2008, 01:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by gunmaker

I appreciate the info...I'm still going back and forth. I like HST better than GST, but experience will help me decide if I want to switch.

Nothing wrong with that - you now have to pick the machine that gives you HST and L39 performance - very few out there...

having Hst (2520) and now GST (L39), I would say the L39 would be a tick slower than a equally equiped machine with HST. Fanning the clutch in tight areas requiring creep movement is the biggest difference - but you can shift ranges or direction at any point quickly and with no loss of stability and no clutch. You can even do wheelies

Its not a tradional clutch so burning out isnt an issue with fanning.

Looking things over from whats out there -you will find the L39 provides the best value per dollar spent as well as performance - of course this is my opinion and it might be totally biased. The Deere 110 was a lot more money with only one advantage- HST and less extras than a fully equipped L39. The L48 could have been the choice but availability and the hoe not as modern (curved) as the L39. Not sure if trailering weight is an issue for you, but it was for me - that was the ceiling cap for me. Have no doubt the L39 might be over the limit right now, but I can throw the bucket in the truck if it came down to that.
Again you are welcome to swing out and try it - you wont break it I assure you -