JD 5203 vs. Kubota MX5000

gaspumpman · Oct 24, 2004

I am trying to determine which is the best tractor for me. I understand the down side to the collar shift with the 5203; however, I have a MF245 now so I am okay with stopping to shift. Should I be concerned with the 5203 being a 3-cylinder tractor vs. a 4-cylinder? The old 50 and 55 series JDs I believe were 4-cylinders and they are still working on farms just as they were new. Is the 3-cylinder JD motor as durable as the old 4-cylinders? Also the 03 series JDs are assembled in India...Any concerns? The Kubota has some nice features. On the other hand the JD is cheaper and has more HP. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

I understand there is going to be a price increase of 5% on the JD November 1st, so I am trying to make a decision this week.

Thanks,
Scott

KiotiJohn · Oct 25, 2004

In my opinion, you have nothing to worry about buying the 3 cyl over the 4 cyl tractor. Many say that there is a better torque rise from the 3 cyl, and both will have good longevity.

That the JD is assembled in India shouldn't be of concern either. All tractors pretty much are assembled all over the world, to the standards set forth by the brand owner. They are backed by warranties, and JD certainly will honor their warranties.

I like both brands a lot, just not their typical prices compared to what I bought. Get the one you want without a worry. They'll probably both be working after you're gone. John

slowzuki · Oct 25, 2004

The MX5000's are a nice little tractor but not really heavy, what are you going to do with it?

cowboydoc · Oct 25, 2004

We should be getting a 5303 this week. The motor and drive train is the exact same one that goes into the 5x20 series from Deere. It has proven to be very tough and dependable. You won't have any issues with the motor.

gaspumpman · Oct 25, 2004

I plan to bush hog, put out round bales of hay, and possibly square bale hay for personal use. Basically, weekend farming.

tough451 · Oct 28, 2004

Are you gong to keep the Massey. If so look at the 400 series Masseys I bought the 451 which is close in size to your 245 and very comparable to the 5203 which I also looked at very hard.
My dealer sells Masseys and Kuboata's and would not recommend the MX series for me said it would not be enough tractor..
So for me it came down to Massey and John Deere they are both solid built machines the massey has more options and both are what I consider semi platform, with the 5203 having a little more room but Im short so it didnt matter. But the Massey came standard with dual remotes and by the time I added them to the 5203 the JD cost more.
But my best advice is pick a dealer you like and start from there.