Strengths Has done almost everything I've asked it to do. The 'almost' part is due to the fact that I frequently push the limit to see what it will do. Sometimes I'm surprised, other times I get what I expected. Durability: +500 hrs, no failures of any kind. Ergonomics: No other tractor from this time frame came close. Very comfortable to use ALL day. Unlike other makes, JD never had a 'seat' recall due to complaints. I can install or remove the FEL & mower deck in the time it takes the average person to find the tools needed to remove the same from other makes. Quick disconnect bucket is very handy. I can switch to other FEL attachments in less than 1 minute. Also nice to remove bucket when you need FEL weight but will be working in tight spots. Useful lighting, accurately positioned 3pt hydraulics (relative to lever position) JD parts & service: I have +3 dealers in my area and if someday I have to purchase a replacement part, I'll do so from JD's extensive and well designed parts website. I know if the part is in stock and what it will cost before I purchase. This feature isn't even an option from the 'single' dealer I'd be forced to work through on the other makes. Resale value. To date, no one comes close.

Weaknesses Ten years ago 20hp in a tractor this size was as good as it got. Fast forward to today, it would be nice to have 30 hp in this size tractor. FEL w/ 60" bucket plus tire ballast definitely adds substantial weight. All 20 HP are working to pull a steep hills with a full bucket. No foldable ROPS in 1999. Odd sized rear tire if you buy the turfs. Non-sealed lead acid battery mounted in front of radiator leaked and fan pulled acid into my radiator. (Issue is not exclusive to JD) No rear hydraulic port option. Again, not exclusive to JD but rear 3pt arms control mower deck height. Should be independent of each other.

Overall Let me make one thing clear. I'm not brand loyal like some guys. I won't defend color or repeat purchase if I thought my money was better spent somewhere else. I buy what is loyal to my dollar. Researched every comparable tractor on the market back in 1999. Decided to buy the JD 4100. +11 years later, No regrets. People often ask me why I didn't buy a Kubota. The answer is simple. Both are excellent units and likely to serve you well for a lifetime. It came down to things like dealer network, features and ownership experience. Keep in mind, this review is referring to comparable tractors from ten years ago. Back then the Kubota required tools to remove the FEL. Used that rediculous 'treddle' hydro pedal. Rear brake pedels mounted on same side as the hydro? Are you kidding me? The headlights were as bright as a AA flashlight. Operator controls were poorly marked and not easily understood in some cases. The hydraulics were painfully slow and loader controls in an awkward and cumbersome location. FEL bucket was not quick disconnect and SMALL. No bucket level gauge. Having read what I just wrote, you might get the impression I think the Kubby is junk. Not true. Kubota has been making solid tractors for many years and will continue to do so. It comes down to what you place value on. In my case, I placed significant value in everything I mentioned above. Because of that, even though the Kubota was a couple bucks cheaper, I considered the JD to be a better value for the money. I'm also quite certain my value assessement will reconfirm when I sell it. Who knows, maybe I'll be trading green for orange some day...but that day isn't today or even likely to be anytime soon.

Strengths Best compact tractor I have owned and I have owned 4. Reliable, easy to use, great turning radius.

Weaknesses Plastic around implement height adjuster cracks over time. Can be a little top heavy without loader and balast. Be careful! 410 Loader could be faster but still great.

Overall Excellent reliability and overall build quality. Excellent ease of attachment use. Ihighly recommend this unit. Mine is a gear drive so it has plenty of power.

Strengths Reliable. Reliable. Reliable. Owned it since new in 1998. With regular maintenance, have not had anything more significant than the OEM battery finally give out.

Weaknesses 1. 3pt selector plastic housing and implement height adjustment housing plastic housing units prone to cracking. 2. Sits just low enough to the ground that a standard auger will not fit. 3. Should come standard with brackets around the lights on the ROPS bar. Brackets are available, and a must if working in brush, mowing close to trees etc.

Overall All you could ask for in a light weight utility tractor. Hate to get off of it due to comfort factor. Find myself on the 4100 when I ought to be on the B or 2010.

Strengths Ease of Use, Quiet. Power for its size does all I need. Light Weight.

Weaknesses Gear/Range selector and 3pt slide plastic gauge pieces are of cheaper plastic and wear with vibration,

Overall This Gear 4X4 starts every time, runs consistently quiet with no torque/RPM deflections regardless of load. Easy to use for first time operator (my 13 yo son and I argue about who is going to work it!