1547 versus 1648

ovrszd · Mar 16, 2010

I'm new to the MF world. Went to the website but didn't learn much. It appears there is an overlap of tractors between the 1500 series and 1600 series. I'm looking at replacing my Kubota L4400 so want to stay in that size range. Why would I choose the 1547 over the 1648 or visa versus?? Can someone clarify the difference in these two tractors?? By the specs they seem to be duplicates. Or maybe the 1540/1643 would be a replacement?? Lastly, is there a big price jump between 1500 and 1600 of like HP?? And if so what am I buying?? Thanks for all the discussion to follow.

northwoodpower · Mar 16, 2010

ovrszd said:
I'm new to the MF world. Went to the website but didn't learn much. It appears there is an overlap of tractors between the 1500 series and 1600 series. I'm looking at replacing my Kubota L4400 so want to stay in that size range. Why would I choose the 1547 over the 1648 or visa versus?? Can someone clarify the difference in these two tractors?? By the specs they seem to be duplicates. Or maybe the 1540/1643 would be a replacement?? Lastly, is there a big price jump between 1500 and 1600 of like HP?? And if so what am I buying?? Thanks for all the discussion to follow.

The 1648 is the new model tractor. The 1547 has a turbo, the turbo works well, and there has been no problems with it. You should be able to buy the 1547 at a lower price than the 1648. The 1600's cost more than the 1500's. Both tractors are well built, choice is a personal one. We have customers that like the 1500's better than the 1600's and some prefer the 1600's. Try and look at both and then decide.

roger 4400 · Mar 16, 2010

ovrszd said:
I'm new to the MF world. Went to the website but didn't learn much. It appears there is an overlap of tractors between the 1500 series and 1600 series. I'm looking at replacing my Kubota L4400 so want to stay in that size range. Why would I choose the 1547 over the 1648 or visa versus?? Can someone clarify the difference in these two tractors?? By the specs they seem to be duplicates. Or maybe the 1540/1643 would be a replacement?? Lastly, is there a big price jump between 1500 and 1600 of like HP?? And if so what am I buying?? Thanks for all the discussion to follow.

Hi. For 2 years I dreamed about a L4400 Hst, 2 weeks ago was THE moment. I went to my Kubota dealer and sat on a L4400, started the engine, it was vibrating, the floor was slippery and all the pedals on the same side( brake and brakes) were not functionnal for me. Then I went to my Massey dealer and tried a 1648.....no vibration , a well cushionned rubber floor, Hst pedals on one side, brake on the other, telescopic 3 points arms, the 1648 is a lot more tractor,larger and heavier (400 pds), hydraulics are a lot better (See the specs on their site) a lot stronger hydraulic with the dl130 loader etc...etc...But this 1648 was a little bit too big for my needs so I ordered a 1643 ( same hydraulic specs vs L4400 BUT THE 1643 HAVE MORE HYDRAULIC PUMP FLOW). for $500 less than a l4400 I had a 1643 that is more confortable (seat with armrest) and luxuous. So check that and you will see that the 1648 that you want is a lot more tractor....concerning the 1547, I cannot give you any advise. Good luck. Give us news about your choice....but go and try one you,ll be surprised. Mine should be here any moment.

MFRED · Mar 17, 2010

northwoodpower said:
The 1648 is the new model tractor. The 1547 has a turbo, the turbo works well, and there has been no problems with it. You should be able to buy the 1547 at a lower price than the 1648. The 1600's cost more than the 1500's. Both tractors are well built, choice is a personal one. We have customers that like the 1500's better than the 1600's and some prefer the 1600's. Try and look at both and then decide.

The 1547 is a naturally aspirated machine. The smallest 4 cylinder compact in the 1500's line up. I think you're thinking the 1540 on the turbo thing.

The 1648 would be the replacement for the 1547. New styling and operator's area on the 1648 would be the biggest differences.
As said, if you could find a leftover 1547, you should be able to get a pretty good deal on it.

ovrszd · Mar 17, 2010

Thanks to everyone for the responses. After looking at the MF website I think the 1643 is probably a closer match to my L4400. I also understand model upgrades such as the older 1500 versus the newer 1600. No one has mentioned any big changes that I might regret not getting if I go with the 1500. I'm not a visual person so sheetmetal redesign doesn't mean much to me. I'll look for a carry over 1547 or the slightly smaller 1540. The 1540 or 1643 by specifications matches the size of my L4400 closer. Only exception being less HP in the 1540. I don't need a chassis bigger than the L4400 but hate to lose HP. Guess I need to do some dealer lot cruising. Thanks again!!

northwoodpower · Mar 18, 2010

MFRED,

<<The 1547 is a naturally aspirated machine. The smallest 4 cylinder compact in the 1500's line up. I think you're thinking the 1540 on the turbo thing.>>

You are correct, I was thinking about the 1540.

Both tractors are very nice, look at both and decide. Hopefully you will own the tractor for a long time. Choose the one that fits your needs best.