Buying Advice 5115M with Deluxe Cab Pre-Purchase Questions - Rollover Prone?

[TFR]

Been searching around this forum for months trying to search out information that would help make decisions, but I have not been able to find the answers to some of my questions. I thought it was time to join the forum and ask directly. I would appreciate any help, suggestions, or comments that anyone has regarding some of my unanswered questions or other things I should be considering regarding my potential purchase of a new 5115M with a deluxe cab and a MSL loader.

I have around 100 acres of very diversified terrain. Everything from level areas of 5 to 15 acre clear pastures to steep scrub covered hills, to areas of dense mature tree cover, and areas of moderate to steep hillsides with slide areas and slip-outs that are in need of repair, year around wet areas, and several miles of dirt roads and pathways to make and maintain. I'm located inland from the coast so it can be very hot in the summer with 100 degree plus days, and very cold and wet in the winter (when there is no drought).

Some questions/concerns I have are:

1. Does the weight and position of the cab on the tractor (height wise) change the center of gravity in a substantial way. I now mow cross ways on some fairly steep hillsides with my Kubota, but it is a lot smaller and closer to the ground. Is the 5115M stable on cross slopes. Is the 5115M with a cab going to be more prone to getting into trouble on cross slopes than an open station 5115M?

2. I'm debating on going with the standard R1 tires or the "construction like tires" that have a little wider tread stance which may add to the overall stability of the tractor on hillsides. I plan on having the rims mounted for the maximum width. Which tires provide the lower center of gravity? I could not determine form Deere's specifications. Anyone have any comments or opinions on this? Wheel weights or water or both?

3. The dealer could not provide me the capacity in cubic yards of the standard loader bucket. I'm used to seeing things like 1.25 cu. yds. heaped or something like that. Does anyone know?

4. Any comments regarding the must have features versus the things to avoid would be welcomed. I hope to hay portions in the future. I'll be purchasing/using a 10' or 12' drag scrapper (with hydraulic rippers, if there is such a thing), fork lift loader attachment, maybe the grapple option with just the standard loader bucket.

5. Does the training seat take up valuable space in the cab and make it cramped for the operator? I would like to have a safe way of teaching the young grandson the ropes.

6. This would be my first Deere. Is it a reliable machine? Does the air conditioning freeze you out of the cab if left on max cooling or does it barely keep up with the heat on very hot days and heavy tractor work? Does the air conditioning system continue working well for 6 - 10 - 12 years without problems like freon loss, compressor problems, etc.? I'm to the point where I want some level of comfort from all the extreme elements and the dust and pollen. Good air conditioning and heating and must as well as dust/pollen filtering in the cab.

The dealer is arranging a checkout inspection and test operating session with a 8 month old M series tractor with a cab at one of his customer locations this week. If that goes well then I would like to try an arrange to get a M series tractor with a cab to my property so I can really see first hand how it performs doing real work and how it feels on the steeper slopes before I actually purchase one. The dealer does not have any M series in a rental program or a rent to purchase program. I'm not sure if I want to purchase one if I can not try it out first on our property. This may be a deal breaker.

Curiosity question: I've read a lot of posts and responses from AK in Alaska. I like his tractors and his state but my question is what do you grow in that very short growing season?

Take care and stay safe,

TFR

 

[RedNeckRacin]

1. If your planning on working year round, the cab COG is a non issue. You should never mow across slopes for the very fact of a hidden hole could change a safe slope to a roll over very easily. Set the wheels wide and load them.

2. Unless you have a specific need for an R-4 tire stay away IMO. They do not pull nearly as well as an R-1. Do however look into upgrading to radial tires, they last alot longer. I am also of the opinion that the R-4 will not hold a slope as well since they are not as aggressive. You do have the option of 22.5 degree or 45 degree bars on your R-1's . The lower the angle the more forward traction but less side traction that you have. More weight on a tractor is better in general for stability and ability to transfer power to the ground. I have debated with a couple members on this and they usually have compaction issues in fields or extrememly soft areas that the work in.

3. That is a relative issue as well. You can exchange buckets (provided you get a quick change adapter on the loader) and attachments to anything you desire. You basically want to cover your tire tracks with the bucket. The rated capacity doesn't mean a whole lot if you can't pick the bucket up.

4. The M series tractors are pretty well decked out as it is. I only have an E so I'm jealous already! I would suggest getting as many hydraulic outlets as is possibly on your machine. I'm already kicking myself for not getting the factory third function on the loader.

5. I can't imagine that the training seat takes up alot of room. Even if it partially was in the way, you can always take it out or put it in. But the teaching should be way more valuable than the space.

6. Reliability has almost as much to do with routine maintenance as it does pure luck. Deere's are generally pretty good machines but there are always lemons. Do you have a dealer within a reasonable distance? That would be my main concern, at some points your going to need parts for something. Doesn't matter how good its made, stuff wears out eventually.


I hope that helps a little bit!

 

[corey9212]

Been searching around this forum for months trying to search out information that would help make decisions, but I have not been able to find the answers to some of my questions. I thought it was time to join the forum and ask directly. I would appreciate any help, suggestions, or comments that anyone has regarding some of my unanswered questions or other things I should be considering regarding my potential purchase of a new 5115M with a deluxe cab and a MSL loader.

I have around 100 acres of very diversified terrain. Everything from level areas of 5 to 15 acre clear pastures to steep scrub covered hills, to areas of dense mature tree cover, and areas of moderate to steep hillsides with slide areas and slip-outs that are in need of repair, year around wet areas, and several miles of dirt roads and pathways to make and maintain. I'm located inland from the coast so it can be very hot in the summer with 100 degree plus days, and very cold and wet in the winter (when there is no drought).

Some questions/concerns I have are:

1. Does the weight and position of the cab on the tractor (height wise) change the center of gravity in a substantial way. I now mow cross ways on some fairly steep hillsides with my Kubota, but it is a lot smaller and closer to the ground. Is the 5115M stable on cross slopes. Is the 5115M with a cab going to be more prone to getting into trouble on cross slopes than an open station 5115M?

2. I'm debating on going with the standard R1 tires or the "construction like tires" that have a little wider tread stance which may add to the overall stability of the tractor on hillsides. I plan on having the rims mounted for the maximum width. Which tires provide the lower center of gravity? I could not determine form Deere's specifications. Anyone have any comments or opinions on this? Wheel weights or water or both?

3. The dealer could not provide me the capacity in cubic yards of the standard loader bucket. I'm used to seeing things like 1.25 cu. yds. heaped or something like that. Does anyone know?

4. Any comments regarding the must have features versus the things to avoid would be welcomed. I hope to hay portions in the future. I'll be purchasing/using a 10' or 12' drag scrapper (with hydraulic rippers, if there is such a thing), fork lift loader attachment, maybe the grapple option with just the standard loader bucket.

5. Does the training seat take up valuable space in the cab and make it cramped for the operator? I would like to have a safe way of teaching the young grandson the ropes.

6. This would be my first Deere. Is it a reliable machine? Does the air conditioning freeze you out of the cab if left on max cooling or does it barely keep up with the heat on very hot days and heavy tractor work? Does the air conditioning system continue working well for 6 - 10 - 12 years without problems like freon loss, compressor problems, etc.? I'm to the point where I want some level of comfort from all the extreme elements and the dust and pollen. Good air conditioning and heating and must as well as dust/pollen filtering in the cab.

The dealer is arranging a checkout inspection and test operating session with a 8 month old M series tractor with a cab at one of his customer locations this week. If that goes well then I would like to try an arrange to get a M series tractor with a cab to my property so I can really see first hand how it performs doing real work and how it feels on the steeper slopes before I actually purchase one. The dealer does not have any M series in a rental program or a rent to purchase program. I'm not sure if I want to purchase one if I can not try it out first on our property. This may be a deal breaker.

Curiosity question: I've read a lot of posts and responses from AK in Alaska. I like his tractors and his state but my question is what do you grow in that very short growing season?

Take care and stay safe,

TFR

It's a good tractor that is versatile.

1. It doesn't but it feels like it when in the operators seat, as mentioned earlier going crossways is dangerous if there are hidden bumps or holes. Widen the tires to the widest stance and fill them up, it will help with stability. Mine was set at 6' wide and filled and I was able to bale large round bales crossways on a slope, the tractor handled it good but in the seat it was a different feeling.

2. I just had ag's so I can't comment on the construction tires. Filling them would be best.

3. Not sure of the cubic yards but a 7' bucket does have lots of capacity to move lots of dirt or snow.

4. Get the third function for the loader and load it up with SCV's. I didn't think I needed all 3 but you'd be surprised how handy they are.

5. The seat folded takes up hardly any room, when put down it takes a bit of room that makes it close for two adults but not cramped.

6. It was a very reliable machine with lots of capabilities. Putting the AC on max and leaving it there will freeze you out of the cab. Max is used to purge the cab of the hot air so you will get a huge blast. I'm not sure of the reliability as I never had mine that long to find out. The filtration is superb and really keeps dust and pollen out and keeps you and the cab clean.

 

[bigblock]

There is no doubt that the cab raises the CG. Besides the added beef of the rollover protection most of the a/c machinery is housed in the roof. My 5105M does not feel top heavy to me but I don't have much hilly ground to deal with. Proper ballasting and safe operating practices should save you major problems. In my experience the 5M is a good solid comfortable tractor. The air seat is great and the a/c keeps the cab very comfortable. You are smart to try before you buy. When you get into this size range a tractor is a major investment. You want to make sure that you get the right one.

 

[pclausen]

I got a 5085M and have had one of the rears lift on more than one occasion going down slopes at an angle. After filling the rears, this has been much less of an issue. This is mostly when I have my 1000lbs grapple on the FEL and a light or no implement on the back.

Definitely get 3rd function for the FEL and 3 rear SCVs. I really wish 4 was an option as I could use that when running my 3 way rear blade and hydraulic top link.

A setting of "2" (1-4) on the AC fan is about all you will ever need.

 

[ddivinia]

1. Does the weight and position of the cab on the tractor (height wise) change the center of gravity in a substantial way. I now mow cross ways on some fairly steep hillsides with my Kubota, but it is a lot smaller and closer to the ground. Is the 5115M stable on cross slopes. Is the 5115M with a cab going to be more prone to getting into trouble on cross slopes than an open station 5115M?

---
You will get the feel for it. Put weights on it, spread the wheel/tires if you think you need it. Wheel weights make a big difference.



2. I'm debating on going with the standard R1 tires or the "construction like tires" that have a little wider tread stance which may add to the overall stability of the tractor on hillsides. I plan on having the rims mounted for the maximum width. Which tires provide the lower center of gravity? I could not determine form Deere's specifications. Anyone have any comments or opinions on this? Wheel weights or water or both?
--------
R1 tires

I do wheel weights. Some people prefer water, etc. Get it with wheel weights. Then load the tires if you need more.



3. The dealer could not provide me the capacity in cubic yards of the standard loader bucket. I'm used to seeing things like 1.25 cu. yds. heaped or something like that. Does anyone know?
------
Not sure. Get the What do you plan on doing with the bucket? Digging, moving loose material, etc?



4. Any comments regarding the must have features versus the things to avoid would be welcomed. I hope to hay portions in the future. I'll be purchasing/using a 10' or 12' drag scrapper (with hydraulic rippers, if there is such a thing), fork lift loader attachment, maybe the grapple option with just the standard loader bucket.
----

Your spending that much money - get 3 valves mid and rear.


5. Does the training seat take up valuable space in the cab and make it cramped for the operator? I would like to have a safe way of teaching the young grandson the ropes.
----

JD has the best training seat. It folds up out of the way.



6. This would be my first Deere. Is it a reliable machine? Does the air conditioning freeze you out of the cab if left on max cooling or does it barely keep up with the heat on very hot days and heavy tractor work? Does the air conditioning system continue working well for 6 - 10 - 12 years without problems like freon loss, compressor problems, etc.? I'm to the point where I want some level of comfort from all the extreme elements and the dust and pollen. Good air conditioning and heating and must as well as dust/pollen filtering in the cab.
-----

The cab has 4 filters. Keep a stock of the outside filters. They are positioned well to keep from plugging up too bad.

Where are you located?

If the cab is hot (been sitting) and I fire it up in the middle of the afternoon - 100+ outside it doesn't so cold that I turn it down. If I start earlier - I will be turning it down.

My 5525 had one problem with the AC. The compressor switch in the cab went out at like 3 months old. No problems since.

Will it last 12 years with no problem - who knows, that is a long time.



The dealer is arranging a checkout inspection and test operating session with a 8 month old M series tractor with a cab at one of his customer locations this week. If that goes well then I would like to try an arrange to get a M series tractor with a cab to my property so I can really see first hand how it performs doing real work and how it feels on the steeper slopes before I actually purchase one. The dealer does not have any M series in a rental program or a rent to purchase program. I'm not sure if I want to purchase one if I can not try it out first on our property. This may be a deal breaker.
---

What would you get otherwise? Could spend less money and get a 5E. Feature wise they are about the same. The added weight of the 5M could be a plus in your situation.

D.

 

[TFR]

Some decisions that I have made:

Going with R1 tires set wide with max weights
3 SCV's mid and rear
Instructional seat
85" bucket with grapple brackets #8230 (Was quoted a 29 cu. ft. capacity)
Convertible pallet fork attachment for loader

Still need to determine if the front weight bracket and weights are available with the H310 MSL loader.

Located well inland from the ocean and bay, in hilly terrain in northern CA.

Glad to hear that the cab AC generally provides sufficient cold air and the filtering system keeps dust and pollen to a minimum. Unfortunately, the one 5115M (less than 100 hours) that I took a look at had no cold air coming from the AC vents. Was told it has to go to the shop.

Still looking for a way to get in a 5115M with a cab and do some work for proper checkout. This is still a major obstacle to overcome before placing an order. Might have to look and other brands of tractors.

Thanks to everyone that has taken the time to reply with their detailed responses. I really appreciate the time and effort that you have taken to give me your input. It helps in the decision making process.

I would have replied sooner but there was an issue with me being able to login.

 

[Bigfoot62]

:welcome:

I believe most of your questions have been answered, and I'll just highlight what some others have said:

1. "There is no doubt that the cab raises the CG." but, "If your planning on working year round, the cab COG is a non issue. You should never mow across slopes for the very fact of a hidden hole could change a safe slope to a roll over very easily. Set the wheels wide and load them."

2. "Unless you have a specific need for an R-4 tire stay away IMO. They do not pull nearly as well as an R-1. Do however look into upgrading to radial tires, they last a lot longer." Plus, radials will provide more traction and a better ride.

3. "Not sure of the cubic yards but a 7' bucket does have lots of capacity to move lots of dirt or snow." It's plenty big enough for any job I've tried to handle. I've even loaded my 26 yard dump trailer with it.

4. What they all said. You can't have too many SCV's. Plus, don't forget the radial tires. Not sure if it's standard now or not, but if it's optional, do yourself a favor and get the eletro-hydraulic 3-point hitch controls.

5. "JD has the best training seat. It folds up out of the way."

6. "It was a very reliable machine with lots of capabilities. Putting the AC on max and leaving it there will freeze you out of the cab. The filtration is superb and really keeps dust and pollen out and keeps you and the cab clean." I'll add that I use my 5M in the hay field, with outside temps reaching 100+ degrees. I've never run the A/C on high. I just don't need to.

 

[ddivinia]

What type of grapple?

I assume you are going with the global attachment with the h310.

The front weight bracket should clear. You can't run the loader with the weights installed.

What about rear wheel weights?

D.

 

[pclausen]

Well, I started out with 2 wheel weights on each side, but that was still not enough when carrying a bucket full of dirt (I got the 96" wide bucket). Not even close. I had to drop part of my load several times to back out of a pile I was picking from on a slope. My tires are all the way apart too.

I really don't think the cab makes a huge difference vs. open station. Sure, there is maybe another 500 lbs or so well above the rear axle, but we are already taking 10,000+ lbs with a loader, ballasted tires, rear implement, etc.

I'm running rim guard (about 1000 lbs per tire), plus the 2 weights per side, and I still have to be very careful when carrying a bucket full of dirt on slopes. I have the bucket just a few inches off the ground when going sideways on slopes (I have no choice), and have to drop it immediately when I start to flip to correct the situation. I'm confident that an open station would behave exactly the same.

All that said, without the loader on the front carrying 1800 lbs of material, the way I have my tractor configured, it is very stable on slopes, especially with my ~2500 lbs Bush Hog 3209 cutter behind it.