Nothing has changed. I am still very satisfied with this purchase after nine years. It is designed to work and do everything it was built to do! If I was going to buy a used tractor I'd buy this one.
The first issue experienced just recently is that a very tiny clamp (looks like a redesigned paper clip) came loose on the fuel line from the tank. There was lots of diesel fuel including a smoking engine but I caught it just in time. I will modify it for a more secure/robust fix.
The front-end loader is so strong that if the grapple is stuck on tree roots or equivalent to that, it will lift the rear of the tractor off the ground with a 1300 pound mower on back and two sets of rear wheel weights.
The strength of the three-point is great. It handles a 1300 pound mower just great. You just have to ride the three-point control over rough ground. I can trim right up to the edge of the creek with it slightly elevated.
I love the hydrostatic for smooth, slow operation around all obstacles. I'm glad I went with it versus a manual gear tractor.
The cruise control lever (for cutting hay fields, etc.) is also well thought out.
My only critique so far is that I would prefer a power take-off lever versus a yellow knob when I'm looking backwards, and the owner's manual was designed for a 5th grader. Example: "Do not operate tractor on slope or hill to steep for safe operation." It still burns me. Kubota and others could do much better giving basic weight and balance information.
You don't dread having to change a piece of equipment. It's just a few minutes and you're on your way to do a different job.
This tractor exceeds my expectations. I did not expect this much strength with a compact tractor.
There is very little not to like on this tractor after nine years. It can lift and mow at the same time and has the power to do it all. After nine years performance, it's still doing the job flawlessly minus the issue with the fuel line.
