Help choosing correct 45-50hp Kubota

[mfrankm]

Hello all. 6-month lurker while researching first tractor purchase. Almost time to buy. Would appreciate any advice you guys might have for me. Several Kubota dealers around me from 40-75 miles away, they seem to dominate the market here. There are three that have competitive prices on my first round of calls.

120 acres in the southern Appalachians. Approx 16ac hilly fields (bush hog), 4ac lawn and garden (loader/bucket), 3/4 mile gravel driveways (scraper), and the other 100 acres is heavily forested. I heat with wood (OWB), and in the next decade and beyond I hope to thin considerably for long term forest health, as well as sell some timber that was planted for sale by my great-grandfather. A sawmill is on the drawing board, as are firewood and mulch/leaf compost sales; all loader work. So skidding logs needs to happen. My goal is a small, steady trickle of income from several sources the land provides over a long period of time. (Hydropower, maybe solar, etc. blah blah)

That's the purpose of the tractor. I think 45-50 hp PTO is the correct range, but am open to suggestions. Got prices on a MX5200 to compare to online pricing. 2 dealers are at $27k with loader/bucket and extra valve, 4wd, gear trans. Online price is $32.5k, so roughly 17% lower at the dealer on that tractor.

But I am also very interested in the m5660suhd for about $4,500 more. Not sure if I need the extra size. Even looked at the 6060 but think its too big and expensive.

One dealer has a used 2015 L4701: 130hrs, comes with landpride grapple, bucket, 6' landpride cutter, gear drive 4wd, for $28,500 no tax. Great deal, but only 39hp pto and smaller all around tractor. Maybe would be enough for me?

I'll stop there and see if anyone has advice. Thanks in advance,
Frank

 

[Luke'sScreenName]

I will be the first to second-guess your choice of a geared tractor if you go with the MX. You described mostly loader and woods work where the HST shines.

The MX5200hst will run a 8' brush hog easily and even a 10' if just grass and 3+ times per year (even on hills). The HST should be much more precise and controlled doing things like placing logs on a Sawmill.

I've been extreamly happy and impressed with my MX (especially loader and woods performance)

 

[TSO]

M5660

 

[Code54]

I will be the first to second-guess your choice of a geared tractor if you go with the MX. You described mostly loader and woods work where the HST shines.

The MX5200hst will run a 8' brush hog easily and even a 10' if just grass and 3+ times per year (even on hills). The HST should be much more precise and controlled doing things like placing logs on a Sawmill.

I've been extreamly happy and impressed with my MX (especially loader and woods performance)

I would have to agree - I use mine (MX5100) on a 120 acre tract for firewood work, trail clearing and brush hogging and the Hydro makes it a breeze. Around the house working on our gravel lane (about ¾ mile total) the hydro is great and makes precise loader work an easy task.

 

[mfrankm]

OK point taken, I was going to mention that I am not completely opposed to HST. Thank you guys for that. Some of my advice has come from old-timers who think HST is a "bell & whistle" that won't last as long as standard gears. And they mow a lot and wouldn't have it without gears. Does the cruise control work pretty well on hills?

I agree that a lot of the work it will do over the years will be easier with HST. I just want this tractor to be my first and last if that is possible. I know that sounds like a joke, but a man has to have dreams.

Do you guys think this is the right size (hp)?

How about physical size? The 5660 is larger and I am leaning toward that is a good thing. But some people on these boards say smaller is better in the woods.

Thanks so much, I appreciate all of your advice.

 

[big bubba]

either one will do you well. have same amt acreage in similar mts (ozarks). finally chose M series & never looked back. had the MX as well prior, but too light on it's feet for me. that is if you're comfortable w/gear..... best of luck

 

[Code54]

I agree either will work well. A lot depends on your property. We have a lot of tight woods and even the MX is a tight fit at time
As for the cruise - I really never used it, even in fields I never paid much attention to keeping my foot on the pedal... sorry I am not a good person to help on that one....

 

[bryanduke]

Really like my MX HST, and would not go with a gear tractor if doing much loader work. HST makes it SO much easier. I can't think of any reason why I would ever go back to a gear tractor. Good luck.

 

[mfrankm]

So the obvious consensus is HST. I am going to start pricing that way for comparison.

When looking a the M5660 HST is not an option, however it has hydro-shuttle reverse. Does that work almost as well for loader work, or is that a step down?

Hung up on size. I hear some people say bigger is better, then others say even the MX is tight in the woods. Unfortunately I do not have anything for reference to compare to.

So far the only post supporting the larger option, the M5660, comes from TSO who obviously has been around here awhile. Care to convince me a little about the pros of this larger tractor? I'd be giving up HST and probably the ability to tow it, as well as accepting a larger footprint and higher weight. Better on hills because of the weight? I know it will pull better, but do I need that for bush hogging 20 acres and pulling logs?

I have a '96 F-150 with the 300 I6, pretty good puller but not a massive beast. It would be great to be able to tow the tractor with it but not a deal-breaker. Doesn't seem like pulling the M is possible, but perhaps the MX or L4701.

The L4701 with 130hrs and grapple/bucket/bush hog for $28.5k bottom line is tough to ignore. 4-5 thousand less than the other options. Smaller footprint than the MX by about 6" in length and width, and over a foot smaller than the M. Weighs 500lbs less than the MX. Would this tractor be more "tippy" than the MX or M? Only 39hp pto, would probably still work for 6' hog on ~20 acres? Just not sure about skidding logs with drawbar or logging winch.

Sorry about all the repetitive questions but I am struggling with prioritizing pros and cons. Also now have a friend trying to convince me to look at JDs, and another saying Kiotis and MF are just as good and cheaper. Typically I would be thinking used equipment like my truck, polaris ranger, etc. but for some reason I am inclined to buy this tractor new. I know you guys have heard all this before but it is helpful to just have a place to discuss with experienced users. Thank you for your help and advice.

 

[bryanduke]

I choose Kubota because of the ease of getting service and parts. There are 4 Kubota dealerships within 50 miles of me. Keep that in mind. I have owned both an L and an MX, both had no problems with a 6' brush hog. I have had a grapple on both also. It is VERY handy. I prefer the larger MX, but for my needs an M would have been to large. I know it's tough weighing all the options. Good luck.

 

[TSO]

No... But that's alot more tractor, which will offer more options for "larger" uses down the road, and will offer every benefit of the MX except HST while being stronger in every category.

I am an active HST supporter, and for my uses (commercial, landscaping) it's the right choice... also the right choice for most modern HomeSteader's with small to medium sized acreage. But for your property, and to "future-proof" yourself if you need "more" tractor down the road, I think the next-up frame size is the right choice.

I have 15 acres, and don't really do "crop" farming besides pumpkins... So my 40-45 PTO HP HST tractor works fine here... But anything over 40 acres, where "bigger" uses could present themselves, I'd rather have that larger machine. OR if the budget allows, a smaller HST tractor for around the house, and a larger "field" tractor for big stuff.

 

[mfrankm]

Thanks bryanduke, that is helpful. There are more Kubota dealerships around me than any other brand, but none are closer than 40 miles. Still seems like the most available.

Leaning toward the MX because it is in the middle on most stats. But obviously going in circles now that spending ~$30k is becoming a reality.

 

[rgr33]

Too bad you can't find a lightly used 60 hp tractor with the same set up as the l4701. I think you will regret it if you go too small, I am currently working on a large fir tree I had to fall as it was split top to bottom right down the center. It is a lot bigger job than my two 30 hp tractors were bought for, and it takes constant attention to keep all four wheels on the ground, even with a huge counterweight. If this was in my hillside woods I'd be in a heap o' trouble.
So I vote for the biggest unit you can talk yourself into, HST or power shuttle, and a grapple. You should be set for many years.

 

[jeff9366]

Several Kubota dealers around me from 40-75 miles away, they seem to dominate the market here.

That's the purpose of the tractor. I think 45-50 hp PTO is the correct range, but am open to suggestions. Got prices on a MX5200 to compare to online pricing. 2 dealers are at $27k with loader/bucket and extra valve, 4wd, gear trans. Online price is $32.5k, so roughly 17% lower at the dealer on that tractor.

But I am also very interested in the m5660suhd for about $4,500 more.

Do you know that Kubota has three manufacturing and/or assembly plants in Georgia?

The MX tractors are excellent. All the MX series have the larger 'Category 2' Three Point Hitch. You can adapt Category 1 implements to a Cat 2 hitch easily with bushings, but that kind of defeats the purpose of having a very strong tractor.

Category 1 implements are where the volume lies and where the most competitive pricing is available.

 

[TSO]

Do you know that Kubota has three manufacturing and/or assembly plants in Georgia?

The MX tractors are excellent. All the MX series have the larger 'Category 2' Three Point Hitch. You can adapt Category 1 implements to a Cat 2 hitch easily with bushings, but that kind of defeats the purpose of having a very strong tractor.

Cat2 pins aside, the MX is still lacking in loader lift AND 3pt lift strength just compared to other tractors in the same segment (CUT)... Not to mention it's own bigger brother he already mentioned. It would be giving up alot of capacity just to have HST.

 

[jeff9366]

Hung up on size. I hear some people say bigger is better, then others say even the MX is tight in the woods. Unfortunately I do not have anything for reference to compare to.

What makes tractors powerful are the large rear wheels, which provide great mechanical advantage when pulling, low geared transmissions which provide great pulling power in lieu of high over-the-ground speed, and tractor weight.

What is your age? I am about to turn 69 years old. Consider buying one of Kubota Grand L series, especially one from the L3560/L4060/L4760 series.

In this series you have HST, Category 1 Hitch, weight and small size plus all the bells and whistles piled on as standard. I paid $27,500 for my L3560 with a number of personalized options. As the years past the easy connection to implements provided by the telescoping Lower Links and pinned stabilizers will save your body and keep you on the tractor years longer.

LINK: Tractors - Grand L60 Series | Kubota Tractor Corporation

Kubota does not like this said, but the MX series are the larger L5060/L5460/L6060 stripped to utility level to sell a a price competitive to other tractor brands in this category.

The M5660 is a nice machine but you only have 16 open acres. Too much for 16 acres.

Grand L VIDEO: kubota grand l series - YouTube

Grand L threads from TBN archive: Search Results | Compact tractor forums, news, reviews, information.

I work in woods two or three days per week with my Grand L, L3560 ~~my second new Kubota.

I have a '96 F-150 with the 300 I6, pretty good puller but not a massive beast. It would be great to be able to tow the tractor with it but not a deal-breaker.

You will not be pulling any tractor you have mentioned with a six cylinder F-150.

 

[mfrankm]

No... But that's alot more tractor, which will offer more options for "larger" uses down the road, and will offer every benefit of the MX except HST while being stronger in every category.

I am an active HST supporter, and for my uses (commercial, landscaping) it's the right choice... also the right choice for most modern HomeSteader's with small to medium sized acreage. But for your property, and to "future-proof" yourself if you need "more" tractor down the road, I think the next-up frame size is the right choice

A voice in my head is telling me the same thing, but my wallet doesn't want to listen. I really like the 5660's stats, especially the factory 3rd function loader valve, higher capacities, all around bigger tractor. Was kinda concerned it was "too big" but sounds like no. I do want this tractor to last me, don't want to realize I need a bigger one down the road.

And now the strong support for HST has really got me spinning around. MX5800 would have the HST and 50hp, but smaller frame which it sounds like you think is the major advantage of the M.

Another question for you TSO, should I look at Masseys? There is a dealer about 50 miles away.

Anyone used both the HST and Shuttle Reverse? Is it just night and day? This is a big factor. I need to go test both out. Hope one of these dealers has a 5660 in stock.

@rgr33, I am going to continue to look at lightly used options for that very reason. Maybe I'll get lucky. Seems like used tractors don't stay on the market for long around here. I like that, "biggest I can talk myself into." This forum is great for talking one's self into bigger tractors haha.

@jeff, I did know about the Kubota plants, kinda makes me want to support the "home team" even though the company is Japanese. Certainly employing some Georgians which I like. I am only 32 so got a few years left in my back. But you are making a strong case for the Grand L's. I will look closer at them. Thanks for the reality check on the truck, we pre-97 F-150 owners tend to think they are unstoppable. The I-6 has tons of torque! haha

Thanks to all you guys, I think I am going to rule out the L4701 because it is too small, no HST, etc. Not going to cheap out on this tractor and regret it later. Also don't want to waste money. 'Tis a thin line....

 

[jeff9366]

You should look at ALL tractor brands. We are not a Kubota shop here but sometimes it seems that way because Kubota has near 50% market share in the categories under discussion.

Deere has about 25% market share.

The final 25% is split among many. ~~ I do not infer that these are lesser tractors in any way.

The fastest growing tractor brands, off a small base, are Korean.

 

[TSO]

Mfrankm... In my experience, my Massey machines have been more reliable than the Kubota machines I have direct experience with. AGCO, parent company of Massey, is also based in Ga. Also, Massey has a 5 year warranty compared to 3 from Kubota. Most Massey and AGCO machines under 100 HP are built in Japan by Iseki, and have a fantastic track record. If you follow the general forums, it appears that Massey is making a resurgence and becoming more popular by the day. I've averaged about 500 hrs per year on my Massey's and they have been stellar. However not taking anything away from Kubota, I think the Kubota machines are very good too.

If you are convinced on the MX size, the direct-comparable Massey machine would be the 2705e/2706e.

The next sized up machine to look at would be the 4600 series, starting at 80 HP. I'm not exactly sure, but I don't think Massey has a directly comparable model to the m5660.

I wouldn't try to convince you directly to buy a Massey over a Kubota, but I would strongly suggest that you at least give then both a try... As well as whichever other brands you have around you.

Regarding HST vs shuttle, I've owned both. For my uses, I thoroughly prefer the HST, although I sometimes have situations Annette I'd rather have Shuttle (mainly on long sustained work like gravel grading, field work, etc). I put lots of hours on my machines, and time is money, so I need to be efficient at my work... So HST works for me. I could still get the job done with Shuttle, it would just take me longer.

For what you're talking about, I'd rather have a slightly larger tractor, because it would offer more flexibility down the road.

Jeff mentioned you could do the work with a L3560. He's right. You could also find a way to get it done with a small 20 HP machine. OR with a shovel and ropes for that matter.

 

[bookmyer]

I have an L4701 for my home and it will handle a 6 foot shredder no problem. But I don't think it would be the best choice for what you are describing. I don't think the MX models would be the best either. I'd go with am M5140 if you can find one or if not then the M6060 since they did not replace the 5140 in the new line up for whatever reason. I think these tractors are a bit more substantial than the MX tractors. Just my opinion. Reality is I'm sure you'll get it done with any of them.