I also prefer the two pedal hydro control to the treadle design of the Kubota. I felt I could change direction more rapidly with the two-pedal system.

I did try out the JD 2032 at the time. I did not like the lack of the analog coolant temp gauge, and the front axle did not seem as beefy. However, the green paint on the JD is a much better quality than the orange on the Kubota, which rapidly fades to a pink after much sun exposure.

I also liked how the Kubota had 6-lugs on the front wheels, instead of the JD which had 4; and the Kubota offered steel valve stem guards on the wheels, while the JD did not.

Nevertheless, I think the JD is an excellent machine.

In the next year or two, if my side business continues to grow, I plan to purchase a "new" John Deere 4049M or Kubota L4701 tractor. I think they are both excellent, but it will come down to price.

 

I will say, that green paint is expensive!

However, when I bought mine, JD was offering an extra $1k rebate if you traded in a Kubota. Worked out well for me!

One thing I wish I had was the 3-range hydro on the K. Sometimes, I need a gear between turtle and rabbit.

 

Yeah, I forgot about that - the K does have the 3 range, and the JD only had 2. I use all three ranges pretty frequently.

The JD was priced higher in my case as well. It's a classic "American" tractor, though.

 

That would be illegal

From what I've heard it has something to do with engine cooling when used at constant high RPM/ HP limits like the F53 see all the time.

 

That's the exact same thing I've heard. Due to cooling issues, the 6.2L could not pass Ford's internal design tests for medium duty (which the motor homes are) use. I expect this to be rectified with the release of a new engine in a year or so and you will see a new V8 showing up in the MH chassis as well as the C&C trucks and the V10 will meet its demise.

 

I would love to see an update to the V10 although tried and true there are nuances like the spark plugs issue of the V10. I have a friend that swears by the F53 chassis, but he doesn't do his own maintenance so to him it works fine.

 

Gas gets my vote.
4.30 gears.

 

How heavy a trailer are you towing? And how often?

 

Can you afford the diesel? Then get the diesel.

I'm going diesel next truck. I just want the power. Towing my 7000# TT in the mountains with the 6.2/3.73 isn't enjoyable. Spends a lot of time at 4K+ RPM. But I've never owned a diesel before, so it's on my bucket list.

As someone else mentioned, sharing pumps with cars at the gas station blows when traveling on the highways. Being able to use the truck lanes would be so nice.

I'm also considering going to RAM because a Tradesmen with the Cummins can be had at around $52K MSRP. Then look at rebates, you can get one for around $42K. Hard to find a comparable Ford or Gm at that price.

Check out this Ram for around $41K: http://www.dennisdillonchryslerjeepd...8d409f1189.htm

Has the basics that you need... 4wd, backup cam/sensors, keyless entry, exhaust brake, 370hp/800tq, sirius xm, bluetooth, and tow mirrors.

Definitely wouldn't be paying more than $41K for a base F-250 6.2L. How much would a comparible '17 F-250 6.7 cost? Might be able to get leftover 2016's in mid/high 40's.

 

Xwild,
My trailer is a high profile 26' tag, scaled at 10k.I read about 6.2 owners locking out 6th and using M control. I don't need to do that.

 

Obviously is going to depend upon terrain. In steep terrain, at 10k lbs plus wind resistance, you'll be in lower gears at higher RPM. Tow/Haul will pretty much lock out 6th for you in hill country. On flatter areas, the 6.2L will happily pull your load along in 6th gear.

It sounds like your mind is already made up - just get the diesel.

There are, in fact, very reasons not to:

1. Few people will admit this, but some simply cannot afford the up-front charge. I'd say this is the number one reason people don't get the diesel, and then go on to say it is for other reasons.

2. Worries of reliability or unplanned repair expenses. This is the reason most people give when in fact the real reason is #1. Nevertheless, there is a modicum of truth here. Some folks are still stigmatized from the 6.0L and the only somewhat better 6.4L. Even the 6.7L has experienced a few problems here and there which have turned out to be very expensive for a few people. It's possible something like this could happen down the road, but in reality, it is pretty rare.

3. You just prefer gas. Some folks like the righteous bellow of a gas V8, some people don't like the greasy diesel handles, and some people don't like the fewer fuel-up options. Its a pretty weak reason, but I guess some people could go with it.

I mean, the bottom line is "hey, would you like less power with your new pickup? Sign up here."

 

Me thinks ya pretty much nailed it, here!

 

I think #1 makes up the bulk of the masses.

 

Absolutely. And there is no shame in that; I mean, a Super Duty pickup truck is an expensive investment. Some people are blessed with good jobs, great earning power, great credit, whatever. Others work very hard just to maintain the rent or mortgage, put food on the table, and pay the utilities. I sure like those people a lot more than the bums who collect welfare or disability checks.

 

I totally agree, no shame in it whatsoever, making up a bunch of silly stuff to justify a gasser is pretty transparent in most cases.