JD 5325 to replace M6800?

[tjkadar]

There is no way around it, I'm getting older. While I enjoy the freedom of my open station M6800 I'm growing weary of the poor climate control system on it. It seems the heater only works in the summer while the AC is on all winter long. I'm looking to move into a tractor with a cab.

I am seriously considering a JD 5325 but am worried I might be stepping down power-wise. I don't think I can stretch my budget to a JD 5425. While I understand there are many, many other fine machines out there, there aren't many with the options you can get in a JD 5325. I'm really a big fan of the EH hitch. The SVC remotes are pretty darned nice too. I like gadgets... at least while they are working.

The dealer is having a great sale on the JD 5603, but I don't know if I want to give up the gizmos that make life easier.

The main implements I'll be running on the tractor are my 8' Reveal 4n1 and an 8' Brush-whacker mower. Future plans might call for some primary tillage equipment.

So great and wise Tractorbynet Forum participants, what are your opinions and thoughts?

 

[CumminsLuke]

Why not look at the Kubota M7040 as that is essentially just an improved version of what you have? I have one with the ultra grand cab and I love it to death. Much better heat and A/C than the previous generation M-series cab tractors I have run. I sure have had good luck with mine.

 

[Z-Michigan]

What kind of prices are you hearing on a 5325? Nice tractors, but quite pricey from what I've seen. (And I'm a JD owner, FWIW)

I've driven the M7040 cab, it's pretty nice. I found the range lever sticky and difficult, and the forward visibility could be better, but all else was quite nice.

Any consideration of New Holland or International options?

 

[tjkadar]

Prices are around $42,500 for what I would like:

Power12 Cab Plus - R2 M3 EH (2 rear remotes, 3 middle remotes)
MFWD
Air Suspension Seat
PowerReverser
Telescoping Draft Links
EH Hitch
542 FEL
Skid Steer Quick Attach
Grill Guard


The Kubota doesn't have a few key features like the EH hitch and ePTO. I also feel the cab is a bit nicer on the JD. Plus, the local Kubota dealer is going out of business.

To make things even more interesting, you can get a MFWD JD 5603 with FEL for about $40,000. It would only have 2 middle remotes and lack the EH hitch though.

Haven't looked at NH or International. They just aren't as popular around here which means fewer dealers further away.

 

[BarryinMN]

I have a similar sized tractor Zetor (10K lb). Use an 8' snow bucket and it feels like a cow catcher out there.

Primary tillage I have a JD 3600 4x18 on land hitch plow. Use it to turn sod in heavy clay on slopes.

7' 3pt blower and the plow take the most HP but I run out of traction before lugging down to stall.

 

[tjkadar]

That is a HUGE looking bucket on your beast! Thankfully, snow is not an issue down here,

 

[Z-Michigan]

Well it sounds like you basically are choosing between a 5603 and 5325, and the differences are laid out for you. I haven't had the opportunity to use the EH hitch.

 

[tjkadar]

Well it sounds like you basically are choosing between a 5603 and 5325, and the differences are laid out for you. I haven't had the opportunity to use the EH hitch.

That sums it up in a nutshell. Extra features or extra hp? A part of me says go for the hp but another really would like the EH hitch. Being able to adjust the three point hitch when hooking up an implement from outside the tractor would be nice.

Or should I try to beat up my salesman for a good price on a 5425?

 

[MtnViewRanch]

I have no idea what dealers are in your area, but there are many other brands that have the outside hitch adjustment available. Kioti and Montana come to mind. Before you buy, go and look at all of your area dealers. It doesn't cost to look and ask questions, other than time and some gas. You might be surprised at what is available and how good it is.

Just my opinion

 

[tjkadar]

I don't know of a Montana or Kioti dealer around here. There are a couple Mahindra dealers. While I'm sure there is nothing wrong with any of those tractors, they lack the refinement of a JD or Kubota. A Massey Ferguson or NH would be a consideration, but around here its all green or Kubota orange.

Heck, I would love to own an Antonio Carraro tractor... now that would be one very cool machine!