Grand L6060 Cab...

Matt in Virginia · May 30, 2013

Gentlemen,
What do you think of the following pricing?

Kubota Grand L6060 Cab HST $40,900
Third Function Plumbing on tractor is another $800
1055 Loader with manual quick attach $6800 w/HD bucket
Air Ride Seat has yet to be priced and is a dealer install.
NO Stereo, however, they will install whatever I buy for free.

Essentially $48,500 with top Hydraulic cylinder and plumbing as well as third function ready on bucket...

Seems high. Dunno though.

Your input is appreciated...

Regards, Matt.

Btw, noticed a new M5140 Cab and loader on the lot. I did not really take to the partial hydraulic shuttle and standard transmission. I did like the heavier FEL, Chassis, and FEL breakout force. Can buy it for 42K. Just don't like the transmission nor do I like going to a 51 HP power plant. 50 HP at the PTO is minimum on a few of my applications. A 6040 or 7040 in the same configuration would be a tougher decision.

WaxMan · May 30, 2013

What do you have for a tractor now?

94BULLITT · May 30, 2013

I heard in another thread the L60 is 5k more so build a L5740 and see what it is. Then take 12-18% and add 5k and that should be a rough idea.

HappyOne · Jun 3, 2013

I think were all ready to see more L60's being sold so we can get a solid feel for pricing. Hopefully Kubota will update their online pricing gizmo with L60's as an option soon.

Matt in Virginia · Jun 4, 2013

A further deeper commentary and question.

Matt in Virginia said:
Gentlemen,

Btw, noticed a new M5140 Cab and loader on the lot. I did not really take to the partial hydraulic shuttle and standard transmission. I did like the heavier FEL, Chassis, and FEL breakout force. Can buy it for 42K. Just don't like the transmission nor do I like going to a 51 HP power plant. 50 HP at the PTO is minimum on a few of my applications. A 6040 or 7040 in the same configuration would be a tougher decision.

Gentlemen,
Had a further comment that I was hesitant to post. I know there are a lot of kubota fans on these forums.

In short the Kubota M5140 came across as weak. Specifically a lack of torque starting the tractor out at 2nd gear speeds on a paved road in front of the dealership. I was amazed I had to downshift to 1st to avoid significant RPMs. I was strongly encouraged to drive the tractor and get a "feel" for it. The dealer really pushed this tractor hard over the L6060. Heavier Chassis, FEL with more reach, wider stance, and reliability of a "gear" transmission

I've been driving AG Tractors since I was 7 or 8. Started with International 1456, 1066, and 1586 tractors on simple tasks such as pulling hay carts etc.. I moved to a 26 foot disk behind a John Deere 4840 when I was 12 or 13. Got the Brillion Cultipacker added late in the 13th year. In short I've not been a stranger to John Deere Ag Tractors from my 73' 4020 Diesel Gear Tractor to an 8 speed Powershift 4840, and 15 speed Powershift 4850.

It occurred to me that I have been used to alot more torque per stated HP than what the M5140 offers. The 4020, for example, has a 404/6.0 Liter(?) cubic inch engine(if memory serves) to produce 92 HP. The M5140 has a 1.8 Liter engine to produce 51 HP at the flywheel. Granted one tractor is ALOT less iron. In short this is new territory for me. I can't say that the 20 minutes I spent in the tractor was reassuring.

I realize the M5140 has the smallest engine of the M series, however, I can't get past the lack of torque. Further I found the gear shift to "feel" rather junky even when compared to an old, but mechanically right, JD 4020 Syncro range.

I am not here with a nit to pick as I had decided to go orange last year based on the reputation of Kubota's small tractor. Specifically the Grand Ls.

To be honest I held the paperwork up as I really did not get a warm and fuzzy with this machine. It lead me to consider the 9960 Cab tractor beside it. I am going to hold off on that test drive. Looking at one of JD Youtube videos, purely by chance of searching for specs on the 9960, the Deere Rep mentions the 4.4 or 4.5 liter Deere engine as compared to the 3.8 Liter engine on the 9960. He noted the "no replacement for displacement" argument. Everything in my driveway is Diesel. Needless to say the 03' 7.3 Liter PSD Excursion versus the 05' 6.0 Liter PSD in my F350 did not help. Granted the 6.0 PSD has issues beyond displacement. That said it does come to mind.

In short I thought I would be remiss in not making mention of this concern. I am going to rely on high RPMs to make enough power for these tractors to function normally? Do they have a decent torque reserve in the field. I'm used to everything making "working HP" at 2100 or less with yard movement capable at half that figure. Do I need to relearn what is necessary RPMs?

Regards, Matt.

Matt in Virginia · Jun 4, 2013

Clutch then rear end "Shudder"?

Gentlemen,
I also noted a rear end "shudder" when coming to a stop and readying the machine(M5140) to turn. Specifically the tractor was in gear, Shuttle Forward, engine at less than half throttle, and clutch depressed prior to applying brakes. The rear end of the tractor, rather violently, "shudders" and I jammed on the brakes in response. My next move beyond clutch would be to slowly apply braking force. Am I doing something wrong with the "Shuttle Shift", Clutch, etc?

Regards, Matt.

Matt in Virginia · Jun 4, 2013

Possible new contender

Gentlemen,
This discussion has me looking at this new option. Only missing is a third function for a WR Long open bottom grapple bucket... Space is not an issue. My barn has the head room... And less than 10K more than the L6060.

http://www.tractorhouse.com/listingsdetail/detail.aspx?OHID=7645181

case245 · Jun 4, 2013

wow to think im considering going from a 7040sud to a 5140 is the engine that weak in that tractor my 7040 is not weak in the engine dept at all its a gear tractor and its got a 203 cu in engine

TripleR · Jun 5, 2013

The M9960 and JOHN DEERE 6105D are sure a long way from where you started and I am not sure I understand the progression, but that often happens tractor shopping. We have an M8540 that is very comfortable and the PTO RPM is 2250 which doesn't seem too fast and I have operated Case and Massey Ferguson tractors and others that used lower RPM, doesn't bother me. I have driven cars and motorcycles that turn a lot more R's than others to get the horsepower and I just see the "There is no replacement for displacement" as a sales pitch or philosophy I don't buy into; seen too many people go from selling one to the other and picking up different opinions and my brothers have worked on and owned all types.

I like the M Series Kubotas, but I also like the John Deeres as well and would be as happy with a John Deere in my barn as Kubota.

Matt in Virginia · Jun 5, 2013

TripleR,
Many are able to narrowly define their exact needs when it comes to a tractor. This has not been the case with me. I wish I had 10 acres to take care of and could plan the purchase to the exact width of the box scraper and 100 pounds on lift strength of the FEL. Unfortunately I own many properties that have very specific needs. Some are one of two times every five years and some are every couple of months. An example. My need for reach and height on the FEL has changed as I have pine needles and Ivy growing on the roof of my Grandparents Home. In order to get to it I need more height and over reach. Another FEL requirement is my barn. It's sheethed in No. 1 Cypress that has to be bleached and treated. That treatment may entail painting with a brush OR spraying something on to get me through the year. In short the peak is at 23 feet and a higher lift FEL , with a larger bucket, would be God send...

I WANTED to achieve many of these things with the L6060 as I saw it as cheaper and a less ponderous solution. It would also take up FAR less room in the front of my barn. Only half of which is available for large equipment storage.

A couple photos of my barn. It is 26'x48'x12' with a goodly loft. Not a cheap choice made. Even the windows are Andersons with the grill between the glass... Partial view of the 600 plus tons of aggregate in the yard and for the driveway...

We'll have to disagree on the displacement issue. I think gentlemen can still do that...;-)

Finding the perfect tractor has been a difficult path. What I would like to get away with, doesn't seem to meet current demand, not to mention my tendency to go heavier, more powerful, and more expensive than is needed to meet an unknown need. My Grandfather, who left me the farms(not to mention options in life) always said to buy more Tractor than you need as you could always pull a lighter implement or meet a less demanding task. A tractor that wouldn't do the job, or was being overtasked, could not do the same.

Regards, Matt.

Piston · Jun 5, 2013

Your grandfather was a smart man!

Nice barn!

rbarker · Jun 5, 2013

Matt in Virginia said:
TripleR,
An example. My need for reach and height on the FEL has changed as I have pine needles and Ivy growing on the roof of my Grandparents Home. In order to get to it I need more height and over reach. Another FEL requirement is my barn. It's sheethed in No. 1 Cypress that has to be bleached and treated. That treatment may entail painting with a brush OR spraying something on to get me through the year. In short the peak is at 23 feet and a higher lift FEL , with a larger bucket, would be God send...

Regards, Matt.

Wouldn't it be a whole lot cheaper to just buy a good ladder?

Sent from my iPad using TractorByNet

MarkV · Jun 5, 2013

Wow, if I understand your post correctly you are considering buying that much tractor for less than 10 acres? Good luck with your hunt.

MarkV

TripleR · Jun 5, 2013

Matt in Virginia said:
TripleR,
Many are able to narrowly define their exact needs when it comes to a tractor. This has not been the case with me. I wish I had 10 acres to take care of and could plan the purchase to the exact width of the box scraper and 100 pounds on lift strength of the FEL. Unfortunately I own many properties that have very specific needs. Some are one of two times every five years and some are every couple of months. An example. My need for reach and height on the FEL has changed as I have pine needles and Ivy growing on the roof of my Grandparents Home. In order to get to it I need more height and over reach. Another FEL requirement is my barn. It's sheethed in No. 1 Cypress that has to be bleached and treated. That treatment may entail painting with a brush OR spraying something on to get me through the year. In short the peak is at 23 feet and a higher lift FEL , with a larger bucket, would be God send...

I WANTED to achieve many of these things with the L6060 as I saw it as cheaper and a less ponderous solution. It would also take up FAR less room in the front of my barn. Only half of which is available for large equipment storage.

A couple photos of my barn. It is 26'x48'x12' with a goodly loft. Not a cheap choice made. Even the windows are Andersons with the grill between the glass... Partial view of the 600 plus tons of aggregate in the yard and for the driveway...

We'll have to disagree on the displacement issue. I think gentlemen can still do that...;-)

Finding the perfect tractor has been a difficult path. What I would like to get away with, doesn't seem to meet current demand, not to mention my tendency to go heavier, more powerful, and more expensive than is needed to meet an unknown need. My Grandfather, who left me the farms(not to mention options in life) always said to buy more Tractor than you need as you could always pull a lighter implement or meet a less demanding task. A tractor that wouldn't do the job, or was being overtasked, could not do the same.

Regards, Matt.

No doubt it is hard which is why my brothers have a total of thirteen tractors the best I can remember on three properties and seem to keep adding shelters to cover them though not nearly as nice as yours. We have several made by Carolina Carports and need another.

All my trucks and cars with smaller higher revving engines have outlasted my old 455, 427 , 396, 390 etc. engines by way more than twice the miles, so I guess we won't get together on the whole displacement thing.

ovrszd · Jun 5, 2013

I started with a B2910 (30HP) model Kubota, then an L4400 (44 HP) model Kubota, now have an M9540 (95 HP) model Kubota. My growth was never driven by needing a loader to reach higher. Not sure I understand that mentality. I read your reasons a couple times and saw nothing about needing to use a certain sized attachment or pull a certain sized load of any kind. So I can offer no advice on which model would best suit your needs.

With that said,,,, an M model Kubota, regardless of HP, is at least 50% more tractor than an L model. I thought my L4400 was a workhorse until I bought my M9540. It does work at an idle and with no hesitation that the L wouldn't do spinning and clawing at full throttle. If the comparison is an L6060 to an M5140, I'd take the M model regardless of transmission type.

With that said,,,, my use is HEAVY loader work with a Grapple, HEAVY box blade work with a 1200lb 7ft blade, HEAVY brush cutter work with a fully mounted 10ft cutter. Very common to have a rear tire in the air because of carrying a heavy load with the loader. Very common to have a front tire in the air when hooked to a rear load that lifts the front of the tractor. I use 4 wheel drive 80% of the time and am frequently on the diff lock for traction.

If all you're gonna do is get loader height, I agree with a previous poster, buy a ladder. You're gonna have to buy a ladder anyway to get yourself in the bucket when you've got it up against your barn.

Other than the loader lift height, I think a mid range Grand L will easily take care of your driveway and your 10 acres. Spend a couple hours on the Kubota website comparing models, looking at wheelbase, weight, tire size, HP, etc., you'll then better understand the differences between L series and M series tractors in the Kubota line.

R_Walter · Jun 5, 2013

rbarker said:
Wouldn't it be a whole lot cheaper to just buy a good ladder?

Sent from my iPad using TractorByNet

Good one.... my thoughts exactly based on my 'sense' of what I've been reading from this poster. [The barn pics look awful familiar to me from another internet site somewhere.]

94BULLITT · Jun 5, 2013

Buy a grand l and rent a man lift when you need it.

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Piston · Jun 6, 2013

MarkV said:
Wow, if I understand your post correctly you are considering buying that much tractor for less than 10 acres? Good luck with your hunt.

MarkV

I really never understood the reasoning behind this? So many people try to size the tractor to the amount of land they own. I can own 5 acres of land but if I have to lift a 2500 lb log to get onto my mill, an L series isn't going to to cut it, no matter how long I have.

Sizing the tractor to the amount of land is good for some aspects, but there are SO MANY other reasons someone may need a larger tractor. There is a thread on here about "how many hp per acre" or something like that. Some people have really large tractors for very little land, and some people have very small tractors for a lot of land.

ovrszd · Jun 6, 2013

Piston said:
I really never understood the reasoning behind this? So many people try to size the tractor to the amount of land they own. I can own 5 acres of land but if I have to lift a 2500 lb log to get onto my mill, an L series isn't going to to cut it, no matter how long I have.

Sizing the tractor to the amount of land is good for some aspects, but there are SO MANY other reasons someone may need a larger tractor. There is a thread on here about "how many hp per acre" or something like that. Some people have really large tractors for very little land, and some people have very small tractors for a lot of land.

I totally agree. When I bought my M9540 I posted a thread about the tractor with several pics for informational purposes. I also described my uses of the tractor and the decision process to buy that model. I got a couple responses indicating they couldn't understand why I needed that size tractor for no more AG use than I had. Also got responses attempting to justify smaller tractors to do the work I do with lavish stories of the work that can be accomplished with the smaller L series. Preaching to the choir. I had just sold my L series because it could not do the work I needed done without severely over working the tractor and shortening it's lifespan.

I maintain 178 acres but that had nothing to do with my tractor size choice. Of that 178 acres, 100 acres are cropland (that we rent out) and CRP land that needs very little maintenance. So I basically have 78 acres that requires consistant tractor maintenance. That has absolutely nothing to do with the size tractor I needed. What mattered was the tasks that I am required to do, not the number of acres it supports. Very good point Piston.