Do I really need the PTO?

Rolando · Oct 24, 2008

I'd like to get some input on this. I'm wondering if I actually need the PTO on the 5610.

The thing I like most about the Toolcat is having the work in front of me and not having to look back all the time. But there are some tasks that just work better being pulled rather than pushed. I want to be able to pull a disk harrow and the box blade. And having a 3pt hitch is helpful in being able pick up a harrow mat for maneuvering and transporting.

I got to thinking about what it is that I would need the PTO for, and I can't think of anything. I'm not looking to till, and mowing I would want to do in front. The only equipment I have now that requires PTO is a flail mower, but I'm planning to sell that. I like a rotary cut better and again there's the issue of having to look back when you're getting close to things.

I know that right now they're only selling fully loaded machines, but eventually they'll give you chance to special order. They list the 3-pt hitch and the PTO as options, so you should be able to get one and not the other. I figure that whatever I save on the PTO can go toward the 90 inch mower I'd like to get.

What do you all think about this?

radman1 · Oct 24, 2008

A question you need to ask, "Can the pto be added later without significant difficulty?" If it can be added rather easily later, then do without. If it is difficult or impossible to add later, then you need to decide is it worth the additional cost. Also have to consider resale later. It would seem to me if a 5610 has a 3 pt, then it would be much more desireble to someone with a pto. For me it is kind of like a car without A/C, unless you live in Alaska. I would think they would start making the 5610 available soon with out fully loaded version. Latest bobcat magazine talks about the 3pt, pto and rear hydraulics as separate options. Difficult for a company to talk about available options on the 5610, when they currently have only one option - everything.

I don't know what the pto delete would cost. The high flow is mandatory with pto and is about $1200. I would guess the pto to be an additional $2000 but that is a guess.