JD 5105 vs. 5103 - 2WD

[Bob_Young]

Trying to get a grasp on what the differences are both in terms of cost and capability. Don't want to find I could've gotten something much better for a few bucks more.

So far:
Both appear to have about the same engine except
*5103 is turbocharged, 5105 isn't
*5105 is rated for 5 more HP (50 vs. 45)
*5105 fuel economy figures appear slightly better

5105 is several hundred lbs. lighter
5105 is a few inches shorter
5105 has tighter turn radius, but not alot
5105 has a much stronger 3PH, but much stronger than I need
5105 tranny is unsynchronized 8x4 w/synch-reverser
5103 tranny is unsynchronized 9x3 w/synch-reverser
5105 std. rears are 14.9x28"; 5103 std. rears are 13.6x28"
5103 comes standard with one pair of rear remotes; None (?) standard on 5105

Price hard to judge as build-your-own not available for 5105. Without a quote, I'm guessing the 5105 will be about $3K more for same config.

Anyone else tried this comparison? Anything I'm missing? Does anyone have a current base price for the 5105? Is there any solid reason for choosing the 5105 over the 5103?

Thanks in advance.
Bob

 

[gamble77]

Good luck finding new 5105's left, they were replaced by the 5103/5203, you pretty much have hit the nail on your head with the comparison and price expectations. Keep in mind that (not sure if it matters to you or not) the 5105 is US made, the 5103 Indian made. Good luck.

 

[Z-Michigan]

I think you've identified the main points. They were very similar. I have a 5105 MFWD and am very happy with it; the new 5203 MFWD is very similar. Base tires on either 5105 or 5103 are quite small, I have the bigger 16.9x28 rears and am happy with them.

Oh, one point is loaders. A 2007 or earlier 5103 only takes the 512 FEL, which is solid mount. The 5105 takes the 522 which is quick detach. Also not sure whether the 2007 and earlier 5103 had a conventional loader joystick or required you use the rear remotes to operate the FEL. 5105 has a joystick.

 

[Bob_Young]

Thanks for that post, Z-Mich. It reminded me of another question:
Is the '08 5103 loader a quick detach loader? (bucket with arms, not just the bucket)

I'm not even sure what model loader the '08 5x03s take. I wasn't planning on a loader because I didn't want the non-removeable design.

What say you, gamble77? ...and thanks for your earlier response.
Bob

 

[gamble77]

New the 5X03 models take the 512 solid mount on the 2wd and the 522 on the 4wd verisons. Keep in mind though that you can get a "QD" kit of the 512, it is a field install only kit so any dealer can put it on. The kit allows for the 512 to become a quick park loader just like the 522.

 

[unreconstructed]

Thanks for that Gamble77. I did not know a 512 had a field install QD. Will have to look into that for my 5203/512.


About the rear remotes--my 2005 5203 has conventional stick--does not use rear remote to operate the loader.