#101

After one year and 140 hours with the Kubota L3901, I feel strongly that we should have bought a different tractor for our Christmas tree farm.
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~~About Us~~
We're a 43 acre Christmas tree farm in central Virginia. We bought the property in November 2018 and have been documenting our whole journey starting this business from the ground up. We don't have any ag experience prior to starting this business, so we're constantly learning as we go!
We are thankful for you viewers and subscribers and love your comments and feedback!
~~FARM FAQ~~
*What made us want to start a Christmas tree farm? see: • #14 The #1 Question We...
~~Equipment on our Farm~~
Tractors: Kubota L3901, Farmtrac 60
Mower: Cub Cadet Ultima ZT2
Box Blade: Land Pride BB2560
Rotary cutter: King Kutter 60" (model unknown)
3pt Tiller: Caroni L800 36"
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Any other questions or comments - just let us know! Thanks for watching.
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Website: www.woodstreefarm.com
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[@WoodsTreeFarm]

Heads up! We've started a new channel for all things tractors, firewood and other projects. Subscribe here: kzbin.info/door/Pmos-Vu8QFlp3lXkQ38hfQ ... The Woods Tree Farm channel will focus more on christmas tree farming and agribusiness going forward.

[@dougmapper3306]

L2501 owner here weighing in on the horsepower. As others have said, where it lacks is the power to get up hills. 25hp isn't much to push a 5000 pound tractor/FEL/loaded tires/ load of stone uphill. It's definitely going to get you there, but not at 10mph in high gear. If you're shuttling a whole bunch of earth or round bales up a decent slope you'll wish for more power as you're crawling it one load at a time in medium. However, I have done some extensive brush cutting with it and while you can definitely bog it, it is by no means slow. I also use a 72" RFM to mow about 6 acres and it will do it flat out in medium gear, which is about as fast as you can go without rattling yourself to death. It tills fine, moves drums and loaded pallets with ease, and will slip the wheels before stalling when using ground-engaging stuff. It has plenty of power and weight for the price point, and I got it with the FEL, box blade, pallet forks, brush hog, and RFM for $24,000. Bottom line: The tractor is great. I'd consider it one of the best tools I've ever bought.

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

Excellent comment. Thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts. Have a great day

[@garyj5943]

Hey Doug. Where did you get that package deal?

[@dougmapper3306]

@@garyj5943 R & M Motors in Pontiac, MI

[@hotarutomoeofficial]

Hello woods tree farm i am a kubota driver from japan i have a kubota ZB1400 it is an older tractor and i want to give you a tip If you have problems i heared you should look for maybe a older kubota or with Japanese configurations Have fun with driving your kubota Greetings クボタ少女

[@bigtime37ja]

Thank you for the videos as we always enjoy watching. Thanks for the update on your tractor preferences as it is helping us make our decision on our purchase choice.

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

Happy to share the little bit I now know. Lol. Have a great weekend!

[@HometownAcres]

Hey Phil, interesting points you make. Definitely a side of the argument not many people take. Good to see you spreading the word that more power comes at a cost. I was out in the woods today clearing some tree tops and really wished I had a grapple haha. Take care!

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

Thanks Adam. My grapple will be coming sooner than later. Getting 3rd function installed next week, I hope.

[@FromSteelToWood]

That is great then!

[@kevinreilly4990]

I thought I needed an L, but my dealer actually talked me in to a BX 23s. I have gotten a lot of use out of the backhoe, and front grapple. It runs my rotary cutter well, and when I need to mow large areas I strip everything down and use the mid mower. I can get in to small spaces and handles everything for my needs managing the woods and horses.

[@ironheadbiker]

I just found your channel, am a proud owner of a L2501 with a huge rb3772 rear blade, and a 72" x 36" high snow pusher. Was worried the rear blade was too big and heavy. My 2501 handles both like a champ. It's a workhorse and my videos back it up nicely. Being a truck driver I wanted NOTHING to do with the dpf filter systems of a higher hp tractor. The engine in the 2501 is the same as the 3301.

[@miano07]

Are hou sure about this? that 3301 and 2501 share the same engine. that’ll be a deal breaker

[@FromSteelToWood]

Great thoughts there! More power is never a problem. A larger tractor can be if working in tight spots. For your application, I think it is the right choice, especially using the rotary cutter. But you are right, having more implements is great too. So the lack of it is a problem then!

[@HamiltonvilleFarm]

Good points. Hardly ever hear anyone say they should've went smaller.

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

I know it's uncommon. I think a lot of people buy bigger based on ego, not necessarily based on what they actually need.

[@yrualeg1]

The Advice I got was to buy a tractor one size bigger than you think you're going to need. We went with the M6060 which is a little larger than what we thought we would need. I'm glad I did.

[@HerkCC]

Couldn't agree more with the point of buying one size larger than you think. Tractor #4 delivered this week...traded in the L3901 for a MX5400....I have a B2620 that is my favorite most versatile platform that Kubota makes.

[@iamthemoss]

I have the same tractor, your analysis is spot on. I was even considering trying to contact Kubota to tell the engineers my issues. My main complaints are the pathetic PTO switch and relatively low lift capacity. That being said, my property has a lot of trees and maneuvering a lot bigger tractor would have been difficult.

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

Thanks for the comment. I found dry teflon lube dripped in the PTO switch cable housing improves performance, but yeah it's annoying

[@CountryLivingWithTheHarnishs]

My l2501 works great it got all the power i need

[@tractortalkwithgary1271]

Enjoyed the video and reading the comments to it. I went with the L2501. I grew up on a farm and have been around tractors for 60+ years. I still had tons of questions regarding my purchase and my Kubota dealer was very helpful. He actually talked me out fo a couple things that would have been a mistake had I gone that direction. I wanted to go with the R4 tires and he advised the ag tires would be better for my needs and they sure are, Also, I felt the 25hp L2501 might be a bit lacking in power for my application. It is not. Does a great job for me. I knew goin g into my purchase that I was buying an economy tractor and would not be getting deluxe features found on other tractors. Many of those just creature comfort. I went with the gear drive instead of the hydrostatic. I have been grinding gears for years, Guess I can grind on them some more and save the $1500. I am in talks with my Kubota dealer about shooting a video for my channel. That should be coming next month. Thanks fro the video. I enjoyed it.

[@vulcan5678]

Its good to have more power then not enough. Good luck with it. : )

[@wolfpack4128]

Same goes with cash especially as a business owner.

[@cleonmain1291]

Thanks for the video. I have 80 acres in east central Minnesota, it's 80% mixed hardwood forest with a lot of regenerating Aspen. On this land I have 3.5 acres of wildlife food plots that are in a clover mix. I also have 2+ miles of green access trails, so I do a lot of rotary mowing and discing. I have had a L3200 gear drive tractor for 8 years now and has always got the job done with a 6' brush mower and a 6' disc. I also have a B2301 HST as a dedicated loader tractor which is only a year old now. I have had no issues mechanical or in capability with either machine.

[@lclapp74]

As the owner of a L2501 I’ll absolutely agree with you. I’ve had it for 2 years now and it’s graded roads, tilled fields, mowed, spread gravel and dug out (I used my savings to get a backhoe) a ton of trees to clear land. My uncle has a 3901 and I’ve never felt like I should have gone bigger. The other benefit of the 2501 is it’s emissions exempt so it does t need DEF or after filters making for. A much simpler engine.

[@xenomorph7299]

ya but you breath in that soot which is bad for your health

[@juarezderrick9647]

@@xenomorph7299 don't put your mouth over the exhaust

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

Thanks for watching and your support! ☕BUY ME A COFFEE ☕ www.buymeacoffee.com/woodstreefarm

[@joetterolison1286]

We have the L2501 and mostly use it for moving dirt and mulch arund our rental properties. Just put our 5 foot tiller together and it worked really well. I looked at the L3901 and didn't really see a great difference between them either, since they use the same basic tractor. Thanks for Your video

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

Thanks for sharing. Have a great day!

[@Longsnowsm]

Wow, I did NOT expect you to say that! I am going through this exercise right now downsizing to the smaller tractor. I am shocked to hear someone else say it. Same experience here, now I am downsizing/right sizing for the actual needs of the work I do on my property.

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

Now that our christmas trees are grown up a little, I now know this tractor is too big to use in my tree rows too. I need something even smaller like BX or B-series. Thanks for watching!

[@Longsnowsm]

@@WoodsTreeFarm Funny how life happens while we are making other plans! And what we don't know until we know it! Same lessons here, looking forward to the video showing your new BX when you decide to make the plunge! Right now you can sell your equipment and get most of your money back with the crazy inflated prices.

[@chriscasey3699]

Your video was helpful in my decision to jump from a BX25D to L2501 (hoe, grapple, box b,). The dealer steered me toward it and your video reinforced that decision to choose the 25hp for my apps. Thank you!

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

Glad I could help. Have a great day

[@netmagi]

Just recently went from a bx25d to an l2501 with a hoe and forks. . felt REALLY big at first, but dang I love everything it does, and with ease. I was use to accelerating quickly in high gear on the BX, and you just can't do that on the L2501. If you're in high on the road and want to go fast, just ease into the pedal until it 'catches up', otherwise you'll bog it. I can still hit full speed on an uphill mild grade in high gear with the FEL and hoe on. If it's steep, medium is needed.

[@BillC253]

Thanks, great informative video!

[@davidmcclellan2786]

I considering an Lx3310. Always buy more tractor than you think you'll need.

[@davehudson4607]

You got a nice machine. I just bought a Kioti CK4010, comparable machine. Keep up the good work.

[@russelltrupia4479]

Wow Phil I can't believe it has been that long. I had a John Deere 45 p,t.o. h.p. and it did everything I needed to do.They say hind sight is 20-20.

[@faulltw]

I just purchased a BX 23S and while it is a lot smaller than yours, it is the size I need. Everyone tried talking me out of adding the backhoe thinking after I completed a few projects i would never use it again. I am so glad i didn't listen to them. I continue to use it all the time.

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

I certainly could use a backhoe from time to time.

[@conmanumber1]

Greetings from New Zealand. Tip: pins and bushes use moly based grease. Bearings, Universal joints and steering joints use "Total" Ceran xm 220 grease. (Best e.p and most waterproof grease on market.) Oils; never skimp and but the cheapest. But a good brand with great record of formulations like from the Australian "Penrite" company.

[@nyannyan123456]

I was going back and forth between the L2501 or the B2650. The dealer suggested the B2650. It has more creature comforts and a little more refine. For my 10 acres its the perfect tractor for me.

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

Thanks for sharing!

[@donniebargo964]

Try a lsmt225e brand new is 5k cheaper than l2501 kubota I have had both and would buy the ls mt225 even if it cost more. I have 400hrs on my lsmt225e since April 2020.3 speed transmission

[@illumi-Nate]

I have 3301 with a backhoe & wish I bought the 3901.....3301 is 34 hp & my land is fairly hilly , it could forsure use more power going up hills with a full bucket of 1s & 2s gravel!! But it does the job, I have no complaint with the kubota, it's taken some major abuse....I almost bought the 2501 & I always say now "I'm so glad I didnt buy the 2501 lol", because it wouldnt of been enough power for my hilly land. but it does all matter what application your using the machine for...keep up the good work on your tree farm , it looks awesome!

[@thefaeryman]

you can buy all your tools at harbor freight, but if you have to continue to replace cheap tools, how much do you save? same with tractor, over working it could make it into a lawn ornament before it's time.

[@inthedarkwoods2022]

Great discussion. The 2501 gives you a small amount less PTO power but it generally has the SAME lifting capacity on the front loader. Plus the 2501 falls below the emission requirement so it doesn't have the regen garbage.

[@benjaminbrooks7979]

It's always interesting to get some insight and perspective from others in the Christmas tree industry. My family owned a tree farm and I grew up working with a bunch of mostly worn out equipment. We did have 6 tractors and 5 of the 6 were Kubotas and mostly kept them set up for a single purpose, one hooked to a bush hog another to a sprayer and another with a box blade. Our farm was around 400 acres in Georgia and growing up Virginia pine and Red cedar were really all we planted. In the 90s we picked up Leyland Cypress and Carolina Sapphire as well. In the early 2000s we began growing Green Giant and Deodara Cedar to sell to landscapers too. For planting, plowing and mowing open fields there was a John Deere 2240 that pulled all the big implements. We used a Kubota L305 and L275 gear drive tractors between the rows when the trees were small and Kubota B6100 and B7100s with Hydrostatic transmissions once they began to fill out and we needed to mow and spray. The same B7100 also was used to pull a paint rig in the fall. They were tiny and only had about 13 pto horsepower and didnt have power steering but they were perfect for getting down the rows without damaging the trees and were so light they didn't damage the ground which was important for our choose and cut operation. We typically used 4 foot implements behind them and they lasted from the early 80s until around 2014 when the last one bit the dust. Of the 3 I believe the highest recorded hours was around 12k, the factory hour meter gave up long ago but was replaced and the hours written down to keep up with service. There were always things I didn't like about them, underpowered, loud I could go on but they always fired up and got the job done. I've still got the L275 and may try and restore it some day. I also own a L47 TLB and I enjoy all the creature comforts it has but sometimes wish I was back on the farm on an old B series when I was young and life was simple. Merry Christmas and keep the videos coming.

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

thanks for sharing your experience! I've heard quite a few tree farmers praise the old b7100. That seems like just the right size to get up and down the tree rows.

[@houndsmanone4563]

Good reasoning for a smaller tractor. You have a nice size tractor and there may be things you will do on your land that you'll be glad you have that horsepower. I had my tractor for 10 years before I bought a grapple and man.....it's undoubtedly one of the best implements to have, by far. I really had to think hard before spending several thousand bucks to have a grapple installed but it's well worth it. I should have bought the grapple at the very start but I too didn't know what I needed so I did most labor intensive chores by hand and by back ( ouch! ) Thanks for the videos, I enjoy them. Have a fine weekend and hope you get a grapple. Another neat little tool (down the road) would be a front load tree-spade to remove dead or diseased trees from the patch.

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

Thanks for the comment. I WILL be getting a grapple sometime this year. I can just tell I'll use the heck out of it :)

[@Mrmizilplix]

We went with the L2501 and got the 3rd function and grapple attachment along with brush hog and box blade.

[@anthonytran5362]

Thank you for sharing insight

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

My pleasure!

[@tacomafan7488]

im doing my research for over a month now and i decided to get b2601 for my 10 acers of plain field and little bit of woods !

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

Sounds good. Good luck with it!

[@kerrynew1969]

you are right about the light switch i am always hitting it

[@benjybaldwin773]

Phil I think you did good on your choice you may not need all the power all the time but it's nice to know it's there and as far as size wise with the chassis it's no bigger than l2501 or 3301

[@hoofpanels6519]

have owned a lot of tractors mostly kubota a mistake first time buyer buy to small and some way to big that is the process of learning

[@kejung1]

Good conversation

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

Thanks! appreciate you watching. Have a great day

[@garrettcarico6265]

They are a good tractor. We rent them at work. They get beat up and don't miss a beat. I'm actually looking to buy the same one for the same you us yours for.

[@dmalloy96]

The kabota tractors are tuff little machines

[@madtater5948]

great video thanks for sharing I was going to buy a kaboba had my deposit in for 10 months my dealer told me it could be another 10 months before I take delivery of my kaboba so I pulled my deposit went straight to the kioti dealer got my new tractor in 2 weeks, more power and more features for less money than the kaboba I am very happy

[@MiserableOldFart]

If you ever want to run a chipper or chipper/shredder, you'll be glad you have the 3901. L2501 is a niche machine that is cheap because of the lack of pollution control on the engine. I don't think you would find the L2501 equally capable with that box blade, for example, if you use it on a gravel road or driveway. A general rule of thumb is to always buy the most hp in a given frame size. The 3901 is the most capable tractor in that frame size with the one glaring weakness, as you mentioned, loader strength. It it weren't for the wimpy loader I would have bought one a couple years ago. It's still on my "possibles" list because it's the largest tractor I can buy whose tires would still be covered by the 5 foot implements I have for my current 26 hp. tractor. If I buy a bigger tractor, like the L4701, or NH Workmaster 40, I'll have to keep the 15 year old NH TC 26 DA for a while rather than trading it in.

[@jameshenry3530]

You purchased a tractor with a reserve of capability for future growth. You made exactly the right choice, to replace the L3901 now would set you back financially.

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

you're right. I have no intention of trading in the tractor for that reason. thanks for the comment!

[@benjybaldwin773]

First off fill I would like to apologize for my rude comment no excuse for it.... and you are right about the 2501 my nephew has one does everything your tractor is capable of.. rototilled with it all the time no emissions don't need the Run RPM so high with General use

[@jasondalton6111]

My Woods Tree Farm hat is my favorite. It's crazy comfortable. Broken in right from the start. I just realized the initials are WTF. hahaha

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

Thanks Jason! I've taunted Stacey several times about getting some WTF logo'd gear. haha!

[@BlueSkyBeeSupply]

We have an L3901 we got in 2016 and used it for a lot of heavy projects from the start clearing overgrown fallow land with the Brush Cutter and then building a house using the BH77, FEL and forks and we got our money's worth, as we would have had to rent other machines to get random things done. We'll be starting a Christmas Tree Farm soon too and I'm sure eventually we'll be pulling heavy carts and wagons. I don't really have any regrets. I would have liked to have gone bigger--only because I wish it had 2000 lb. lift. But for the woods and my storage facility, I wouldn't want bigger. All around, this is a solid machine and power needed to run the WoodMaxx wood chipper and looking forward to using the grapple. Titan and Everything Attachments have pretty good deals on their implements and there's always used of course. I think in general, this is a good sized unit for someone with 10 acres or more. If my choice was a 3301, I would go 2501 or 3901 though.

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

Glad your tractor is working well for you. Thanks for the comment. Appreciate you stopping by the channel and contributing. Have a good one!

[@ohiofarmer254]

I know your needs may be different than mine, but we did a demo on an l 2501 and ended up getting a grand l 3560. the standard l series to me was under powered and under featured for heavy ground work like pulling a 2 bottom plow. we use it for Christmas trees, sweet corn and when i built my home

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

Yeah, I'd imagine pulling even a single bottom plow in our dense clay would be a challenge at times with this tractor.

[@sizemorec1]

There’s a guy on here with a video pulling a 2 bottom plow with a l2501 no problem

[@dougdinsmore9751]

Hey Phil, thanks for sharing your thoughts on the L-series tractor. What a machine they are! A year ago I purchased a L2501 instead of the 33 or 3901 simply to circumvent the emissions system. It now has roughly 450 hours on it. I am so glad I went with the 25, way better fuel consumption and all the power I will ever need. Yes, I would have gained on PTO power, but although I have a 5' tiller, a 6" chipper, an auger, and a 7,700 lb forestry winch I seldom wish I had the extra power. If the size of trees I can see in this video are an indication of the average size on your property, I am confident that with a Land Pride grapple and a 6,000 to 8,000 lb forestry winch you would not need to hire a contractor. My Uniforest 35M winch has 265' of 3/8' cable, which is way more than any other brand I know of, so traversing steep ground to recover downed timber is usually doable. Great videos, keep them coming!!

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

Thanks for sharing your experience. I appreciate it. Last year I started a new channel for all tractor work while this channel has moved towards being just about the christmas tree farm. So be sure to check out the new channel too. kzbin.info

[@markcole6475]

I had a 2501 and for the most part it did what I needed it to do. I chose the manual trans option which 50% of the time it was no big deal but I was getting to a point where I was always doing tight intricate loading work….was constantly riding the clutch to creep into positions….plus there were a number of times when I needed more power for a PTO snow blower I had an opportunity to buy cheap! Unfortunately a 30hp or more tractor was recommended…so I passed on it! So now I’ve upgraded to the 3902….sort of glad I waited because of the minor refinements from the 3901.

[@ArielleViking]

Interesting observation about your tractor needs. 👍

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

Thanks

[@daveknowshow]

I agree with you, any larger than a l2501 a person needs to jump to a l4701 that is the next lift capacity increase.

[@R.E.L.Asphalt_Sealcoating]

I did. L4701

[@jimcole6423]

Three fundamentals to any tractor: weight, gearing, tires. You have control over the tires you put on a tractor but not the other two. I own three tractors. The oldest one is 38 hp gas. Pulls 10K# with ease and its a 4 banger. All of the horsepower in the world is of no use unless you can get it to the ground. Unfortunately, many people get caught-up in horsepower ratings and "goodies". Straight out plain tractor with no computer is your best bet.

[@mphsales]

I’m so glad I watched this. I walked in Friday and signed paperwork on a L3901 but I had the same concerns about what I needed and what was a waste. After watching this and doing a little more research I called and I’m switching to a L2501. I really appreciate your videos. I’m also thinking about the grapple forks

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

Glad you found the video helpful and I hope your new tractor serves you well!

[@MiserableOldFart]

Hope not, but I"m betting you find that machine underpowered.

[@davebarnessr.5805]

My uncle has the Kubota L2501 and he loves it. I have the L4701, for 2 reasons. My driveway is a quarter mile long and I like the extra weight and power for grading particularly when the gravel is really packed down hard and dry and the larger tractor does the job with much more ease than a much smaller ford tractor I once used that could only do the job when the gravel was moist, when dry and packed forget it, and the second reason was price, for 5 grand more I got a much larger tractor and implements to shorten the working hrs on the machine, One drawback to the L4701 is maintenance costs are higher with larger oil and hydraulic capacity’s( HST). But everyone’s needs are different and should be central when choosing a tractor, as for me? No complaints, I will not run into anything my tractor won’t handle and the days of an undersized 2 wheel drive tractor that can only do the job when the moisture content is acceptable are over. and I must admit, my tractor is sexy! Lol

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

Sounds nice! I've been doing work in the woods lately and glad I don't have anything bigger because it gets real tight and tough to maneuver at times. Thanks for watching!

[@jram7047]

When running larger equipment you run into the cost of operating and additional bill that doesn't necessarily justify its extra cost unless you start doing some side work with it at minimum. A large amount of contractors just rent equipment as they go so they avoid surprise cost with repairs

[@dehavenfamilyfarm]

I think for the tasks you mentioned, the smaller hp tractor would have worked too. One thing to keep in mind for the future, though, is possibly a heavier tractor for the hay wagon ride. As your farm gets busier, more people will be on your wagon- meaning more weight to push that little tractor around. Our wagon was a little bigger than your yours, and our terrain is a little steeper (I think- hard to tell your terrain on camera), and we pulled our wagon with a 12,000lb tractor. You can never have enough tractors! lol

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

Good point. With a full wagon, I do feel the 3901 struggle a little.

[@michaelmccullar2982]

Great video

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

Thanks

[@kerrynew1969]

I have a 2501 with a 5 foot finish mower and it barely is powerful enough even with pretty short grass

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

that's surprising. I've never run a finish mower, so can't compare. When it comes to bushhogging, I actually wish I had a 6' cutting deck.

[@deerrudy]

Thanks good video helpful for me since I'm shopping right now and was struggling if it was worth going bigger than the l2501 for my needs.

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

Thanks. Glad you found my perspective helpful

[@gmt400_k2xx]

I'm also thinking I got the wrong tractor. I could definitely use something bigger but at the same time my 3301 just barely fits around the yard, under trees and in the barn.

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

There's probably no one-size-fits-all. I'd like something smaller for working around my Christmas tree field. As my trees grow, I can tell this tractor is too wide.

[@ArizVern]

Thanks guy! I bought a dealer rental L4701 HST with 119 hrs. I think I should have gotten the L3901. I'm 5'11", My knees don't hit anything, dip stick is easy to get to. Had three remotes added for tip and tilt. While setting in seat, inside control lever keeps getting hit by belt loop of Levi's. Causing box scraper to tilt to the right. The seat is way too low, makes control lever 1/2" from right side of seat, solution raise seat 5 inches.

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

Sorry to hear the trouble and inconvenience you're having with the 4701. Hoping you can get it figured out or work something out with your dealer. Thanks for watching

[@johninwv807]

I sold my L3800 because it was just plain weak. Lift capacity was embarrassing and could rarely even use mid range on the HST unless going flat or downhill

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

mine doesn't have a problem with the hills on my property.

[@dirtbeard108]

i also prefer the 2501 lower rpm range and no need to regen.

[@tsafa]

Always buy two sizes bigger than you think you need. You will grow into it. I could have got away with a 2501 but I got the 3901 instead... now wondering if I should have got 4701. With all the money printing that the government is doing, the best place to put money is in equipment.

[@senile_texas_aggie7338]

Have you talked to the dealer about trading in your L3901 for the L2501 and see if you can get a grapple in the deal? I agree with Brad Meyers about the grapple -- I have used mine A LOT!

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

No, I haven't checked with the dealer on that. All I really need now is the grapple and I'm saving up for it.

[@krextu]

Just found your channel and looking forward to watching more. How many acres is your tree farm and what would you consider the minimum acreage needed for a Christmas tree farm?

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

Hi. Thanks for visiting the channel. We have 43 acres total, but a lot of that is wooded. Our main field is about 7 acres and should be able to fit about 6000 trees in it once its filled up. We have two smaller open areas between 0.5 and 1.25 acres that we could plant trees in too. The minimum acreage depends on your goals, I think. Depending on the spacing you plant your trees at, you could get upwards of 1700 trees per acre (we do about 1000/acre). Then you have to figure you can plant up to about 1/7th of your space each year to allow for crop rotation. If you only want to sell a couple hundred trees per year, you could get away with just a couple acres

[@krextu]

Woods Tree Farm Thanks for the info. I live in CA but have some land (appx 5 acres) in OK on the corner of a busy US highway that provides great visibility. I want to develop into a small farm. I’ll keep checking out your videos. Thank you for the response and the real world videos of your experience and progress!

[@BradMyers]

Good video. Unfortunately, the L2501 would still have some of the issues you have with the L3901. Yet, having the grapple would be really NICE. I had no idea how handy one would be until we actually bought one and now, like yourself, wish I had gotten it sooner. As you have learned, the 1st purchase is a learning process, even with all the research, you still learn a lot once you start using your tractor. So, here in a few years when you are expanding the farm, you will know exactly what you need and have a much better idea of what you will want to buy. I'm glad the L3901 has been a reliable tractor, even though it may not be the perfect tractor for you.

[@danielchambers1958]

I agree with your comments about your first tractor purchase. I am happy with my B2650 HSDC, but sometimes I think I should have went bigger:)

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

Yeah, lessons learned. Grapple coming soon. Getting 3rd function installed next week.

[@logan979]

@@WoodsTreeFarm what grapple are you considering ? I have been going back and fourth between the MTL & EA I just cannot decide. Thanks for the video.

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

Looking at the same. Watched all the videos, weighed pros and cons. EA is 2x the cost, and that might be the deciding factor for me, even if it is lighter and better.

[@BradMyers]

@@logan979 I can't comment on the MTL, but I can on the EA. I have the EA wicked root grapple 55". When I was deciding on the purchase, I was afraid the 55" would be to small, but I also didn't want to eat up my lifting capacity. The EA weighs 239lbs and I have used it for everything. I have taken down to old farm buildings (hog houses), picked up implements, wagons, and of course brush/trees. It has taken everything I have thrown at it. The one thing I would recommend, improve your grill guard. I add extra protection to my grill guard and if I hadn't I would of taken a tree branch to the radiator.

[@joetterolison4093]

I have the 2019 L-2501 since Sept 2018, with the 5 foot Rotary Cutter & Rototiller, with the Fork Lift Attachment ( which I use often ) *** I'm half way through My 5 year Zero Interest & Zero Down Loan *** I heard it has the same Hydraulic Pump as the L-3901, so the lifting power for all the models on that frame are the same I really used it a lot to move & level 50 Dump Truck loads of Dirt, and about 50 loads of Tree much It worked great, except when I drove it onto some of the FREASH soft wet dirt I had just moved to pack it down and it sunk up to its belly and got it stuck Now has almost 150 hours Yes, BIG BITES of heavy brush bogs it down but workable with patience It is advertised as a 24 HP at the PTO, but I have heard its really around 30 HP, (HEARD) without the Diesel Pollution system requirement The only thing I have wish it had was more lifting power on only a couple of occasions, It's ONLY Rated at 1,000 pounds Lifting Capacity 1. Picking the up Pallet with the Backhoe I bought ( it did lift it, but not very high ) 2. Picking up a full Pallet of ceramic flooring tile, I had to downsize the load in half 3. I actually tried to lift the front of My totaled Pickup Truck, it was only a foolish attempt to see if could. ( NOT ) LOL Not Sorry I bought it

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

Great info. thanks for sharing your experience. Glad your tractor is working out well for you. Take care!

[@chadivester2242]

The lifting capacity is the same on the 2501 it’s just the torque that comes out of the rear pto shaft is a lot less

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

yeah, that's my understanding too. I don't have much need for more PTO power

[@tsafa]

I got the L 3800 which is about the same size as yours. I agree that the 2500 series can do just about the same work. The loader capability is about the same. My biggest complaint about the hydrostatic transmission is that it could use a lower gear.

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

Thanks for sharing. I haven't felt the need for a lower gear, but I could see if you're pulling really heavy loads, or doing a lot of hills, it could be necessary.

[@tsafa]

@@WoodsTreeFarm a lot of times I'm just trying to dig the front loader into a hard dirt pile and the wheels will spin when I push in in the low gear. I usually find a way to manage it, but a lower gear would be useful.

[@Jesco-pi9gr]

If the wheels are spinning you don’t need a lower gear. You need more tractor weight or different machine. If it wouldn’t spin the wheels then you need lower gear.

[@6ShooterHomesteadAndPrepping]

Hey buddy I'm in Virginia too

[@jram7047]

Fel can't lift enough, even turned up I really thing 50 so hp would be the minimum tractor for me. But honestly 90% of what I need to do I can with this tractor. Just not fast and easy like purpose built or more specific equipment. Fel is just a loader , most problems come from people having trouble understanding that.

[@tommyjones4084]

So I’ve a question about your video. I saw a ford in the back ground of the video when you was using the yard box I’m curious to know about the ford . I had a 68 3000 that i traded for a L4701 Kubota my Kubota is nice but i miss my old ford some days

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

It's actually a farmtrac, which is just like an old Ford and its a beast! It came with my property

[@tommyjones4084]

10-4 i couldn’t really tell in the video . Thanks for the reply

[@js4455dl]

You probably could sell it yourself have you had it appraised or you know what you want for it. I'm in Arkansas been looking at one

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

I'm not looking to get rid of it.

[@scottbaker9985]

What other implements would you have gotten?

[@johnstaub359]

I run a 60" cutter on a L2501. I may had to have raised the cutter some and cut twice or slow down some. Keeping 10 acres cut. I actually use it to mow now that the fields and yard are in check. The loader lifts as much as any L series. And I do a lot of loader work. I also have BH-77 Backhoe for it. I am sure a time or two I could have used a pinch more PTO power but I compensate with raising or slowing down. I only have rotary cutter as far as PTO implements at this point. Not having the Tier IV emissions equipment and the engine drinking less fuel is nice for me. Probably the best thing going for the 25 hp version. L2501 a great choice for all my needs. And by watching your stuff you have going on... 25hp would be plenty

[@matthewquinn8596]

I have a 1025R and it's the perfect size to work in between tree rows, however, there are times when I wish I had more power. I don't think I'll ever trade this tractor in, but in the future expand with a 3 series (with a cab, snow blowing is mighty cold!). I also eye those Ventracs heavily. I feel they could be useful.

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

For sure! Ventracs looks real nice

[@m40mclean9]

Some times it's better to have a little more power than what you need coz when you need that power it's there so getting something a bit more bigger than what you need has done some ppl good

[@johntheaccountant5594]

You made some good points but: A more powerful tractor under less stress will last a lot lot longer. The L3901 tractor has higher ground clearance as well. The front shovel will be more powerful and stronger. You have financially survived with buying it so you are good to go now.

[@bearkatljl]

You're the first person I've ever heard say "I need a smaller tractor". You say that the L2501 would do what you have done with the L3901. I would just suggest to you to look at the weight of the two tractors because the work you have described doing would have been more difficult for a lighter tractor. Just my 2 cents enjoy your tractor, I know I certainly have better days when I get some tractor seat time.

[@davidford9017]

bearkatljl you do make a valid point but in the kubota line. The L2501-L3901 are the exact same tractor just changes in the engine

[@deerrudy]

He's not saying he needs a smaller tractor. He's saying for the money he spent on the 39HP he could have gotten the smaller 25HP size tractor with a grapple and other implements for what he spent on his model. Kubota has 3 models all on same frame size which are identical except for different HP. They all lift and weigh the same. For the work he does 25hp would be adequate sounds like. I'm shopping right now and was debating if I needed something bigger than 25hp since my old tractor is 42 hp. From everything I have heard It's a capable tractor for my needs.

[@dunrob13]

If you are a growing farm you will need the bigger tractor and kubota holds its value, it was not a mistake

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

Yeah, no regrets. Just didn't know what I didn't know at the time of purchase.

[@DIYMyWay]

Hi Phil! Wish you’d gone smaller, eh? I don’t hear that often! I have loved my L3901 and after 2 and a half years and almost 600 hours, I think I picked the right size for most everything I do with it. Nonetheless, you tell a good cautionary tale for other in your situation! Thanks for sharing!

[@faulltw]

"Wish you'd gone smaller" That's NOT what she said ;)

[@iwantosavemoney]

I bet this is a first but good stuff

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

thanks a lot!

[@OurGreeneAcres]

Hopefully you will grow into the tractor and be happy with your choice Maybe you just got the wrong color. Lol

[@pennylessplantation]

I don’t know Phil, 3901 is pretty capable machine. Seem powerful. Do you still have the larger blue beast? Consider checking out a “poor man’s grapple” no 3rd function needed. kzbin.info/www/bejne/e3TSpn98qJd5has

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

Hey Joe! Yeah, I still have the OBT (old blue tractor). Its a hoss. I should have mentioned that in this video - thats part of my feelings toward getting the lower powered L-series instead of this one. If I need to run an implement that needs more HP, the OBT is 50hp.

[@milo6258]

May I ask how much did you pay for your tractor?

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

About $27k with loader, loaded R4 tires, and BB2560 box blade

[@titoyama5760]

@@WoodsTreeFarm there is a package deal for 27k finance 0% apr you get the tractor, loader, tiller, bush hog and a trailer with it, I'm looking to buy one but I can't make up my mind if I need a 2501 or the 3901, the 2501 is 23 500 with all the items I just listed, tbh I'm not even sure if I'm buying a tractor right now I'm just so confused lol

[@eliasnull]

I just spoke with a Kubota specialist the other day and he said he would never personally buy an L series like that. Nothing but a problem child is how he worded it. He said people who have them should get rid of them as fast as they can because as more people find out about how bad they are the resell value of the L series will be very cheap...

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

I don't know about that. There are a lot of L's out there with 1000's of hours and happy owners.

[@eliasnull]

@@WoodsTreeFarm yea that's what I thought also. Perhaps there is a certain serial number range. He didn't really specify anything exact other than said the L series is not a good tractor🤷🏼‍♂️

[@kaseycasece1340]

YOUNG MAN , U ARE COMPLAIN FOR NO REASON ?. U SHOULD SAID U STILLNEED LIKE KUBOTA LOADER TRACTOR / BUT JUST NEEDED SMALL KUBOTA LOADER TRACTOR THAT ALL / DIFFERANT TRACTOR MEAN ANY OTHER TRACTOR BESIDE KUBOTA LOADER TRACTOR ! ! ! ! . KUBOTA L2501 LOADER TRACTOR : 24.8 HP . / 18.5 PTO 4 X 4 IND . R 4 TIRES GEAR DRIVE - TRANMISSON NOT H S T ! AN YES WILL PICKUP 5 X 5 ROUND BALE : FRONT OR REAR OF THIS TRACTOR !

[@Wolf6151]

Your 1 year evaluation of the tractor has nothing to do with the tractor, and all about your decision to buy the tractor

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

Correct! Thanks for watching. Have a great night!

[@rod7048]

Get a Kioti !! Better Specs & Cheaper Price.......do Your Homework !!

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

If I wanted to deal with limited dealer network and skimpy parts availability, I would totally do that!

[@rod7048]

@@WoodsTreeFarm It is Obvious your Brand Loyal ??

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

no. just practical. nearest Kioti dealer over an hour away. Kubota is 20 mins away. I needed some parts this past week. Ended up picking up the wrong thing (totally my fault - it happens) and made 3 trips to the dealer. Glad my dealer is nearby. Glad my dealer is relatively big and has an excellent selection of parts in stock. Glad I don't have a Kioti.

[@rod7048]

@@WoodsTreeFarm **Maybe U Should Have Bought A Different Tractor ** ??

[@jessejuno5317]

So basically your bashing the tractor just to get more hits?

[@WoodsTreeFarm]

I don't think you watched the video. There isn't any bashing going on here. I explicitly said the tractor is great. Just sharing my experience and thoughts about what to consider when buying a tractor.

[@jessejuno5317]

@@WoodsTreeFarm The title, that where it's at. The title. I watched the video..