John Deere 6110M issues?

Matt in Virginia · Dec 22, 2016

Gentlemen,
I need a tractor, as my 72' 4020 Diesel is past tired, and I'm looking strongly at a new 6110M. I would love to have an 6110R with CommandArm and all the trimmings, however, they quickly get way out past reasonable for a tractor that is not one that is going to be in the field day in and day out. I'm planning to set it up with a 640R loader with the global carrier hookup and likely add a WR LONG Open Bottom Grapple Bucket to my HD General Purpose Bucket. I worry that the extra 1000 pounds of capacity that the Self Leveling 640R brings to the table may overtax the build of the grapple. Not a quality issue mind you, however, the JD 640R MSL has a capacity approaching 4800 pounds NOT that I intend on picking anything that heavy up knowingly. That said trees CAN fool you with moisture content and size... The 640R NSL is about 3800 pounds on capacity. I can't see NOT going MSL due to the benefits of palletizing items and self leveling is a life saver when moving loaded pallets...

I also wanted to know what the general take home on tractor quality is with the Mannheim, Germany built/assembled John Deere 6M series tractors? I'm almost MORE COMFORTABLE with the simpler transmissions due to the sheer mass of electronics open to fail on a 6R. That said the 6R is built is supposed to be built in the same factory where they build the 7R & 8R which are arguable market leaders. I would GREATLY appreciate any input...

This Tractor will spend the majority of it's time cutting grass with a new JD HX10 3 point hitch HD Mower, keeping driveways in shape with a industrial build GradeMaster, doing a bit of loader work with the previously mentioned WR LONG Grapple Bucket and that is about it.. Whatever is done with the tractor will be careful service. I am a bit concerned that I see so many of these loader tractors ROUTINELY for sale at 300 hours. Are the tractors wearing significantly or are we talking about huge concerns turning over equipment to avoid getting caught with a fleet of 4020s like me....?(laughing)

I would greatly appreciate some input from anyone with first hand experience.

Much obliged, Matt.

jd110 · Dec 23, 2016

Matt, the 6M and 6R series have been some of the most reliable tractors we are selling these days. I like the German influence on the 6's. (the smaller 6R's are built in Germany also) I do agree that the less complex M series is bound to be more reliable. Anytime you add more complexity with more sensors, wiring, relays, etc., there is more potential for problems. For the chores you plan for the tractor, the R series would be overkill, but if you would like the extra frills, go for it - as I said, both series have been great. One reason you see low hour tractors for sale is the increase of people leasing them for a year and then turning them in for another new lease. The tax benefit for leasing is attractive for larger operations.

Matt in Virginia · Dec 24, 2016

jd110,
Thank you Sir. That is greatly informative and i appreciate the correction on the small 6Rs being US built. An assumption...;-). I also appreciate the lease explanation greatly. Happy to hear the German 6s are performing well...

Regards Matt in Virginia.

Bavarian · Dec 27, 2016

I have a 2012 6430 premium with the h340 msl loader. It's lift capacity is around 4000 lbs and the rear tires filled.
If I go to the loader's capacity, it's getting light on the rear. You need to beef up the rear with the heavier loader.

The position of the vents in the cab might need some improvements. There are no vents for the side or rear windows. If you have a cold moist day with a lots of in and out, you might not be able to keep them free of condensation.

No complaints about the build quality. I myself am built in Germany (not in Mannheim) and did last 45 years and still counting.

Good luck in your choice.

Matt in Virginia · Dec 29, 2016

Bavarian,
You are from my favorite place in the World. I LOVE Germany... I've been selling Schmidt Bender Optics for 16 years. I have to leave before putting on too much weight with the beer...;-) Thank you for sharing on the window dehumidifier. That is actually an option on the 6M and 6R and I thought, please stand back, Why would you need that? Question answered... Vielen Dank.

Regards, Matthew Garrett.