Need help configuring a Kubota M6040/7040

[art]

Before ordering to many valves on the tractor you should see what is required to run the boom mower! I'd also look at the Land pride which can be financed with the tractor at the low interest rates!

Depending on the boom mower you select you might want to move up to the 8540 because of the heavier three point hitch.

I'd still at least put industrials on the rear but maybe it's just being in ny!

 

[rjkobbeman]

In deciding between the M6040 and the M7040, the main difference I saw (aside from the obvious HP increase) was the limited slip front differential.

The frame of the M5040/M6040 and M7040 are the same.

The engine in the M6040 and M7040 are the same. I don't know what is tweaked to get the extra 10 HP... turbo maybe?

Now, the jump to the M8540 is a big one. You get a lot of bang for your buck in my opinion (going with the M8540).

The frame of the M8540 and M9540 are the same... and they are bigger than the M5040/M6040/M7040. The M8540 and M9540 use a bigger FEL too.

With the M8540 (and M9540) you get hydraulic brakes, an option for high capacity 3ph lift cylinders, an option for the 6 speed gearbox (12 speed total), bigger frame, bigger FEL, bigger clutch (syncro shuttle)... the list goes on and on. If you get the 12 speed, you get the high capacity 3ph lift cylinders automatically.

I bought the M8540 and love it.

 

[Bulldogger]

I think I will go with the Ag tires after all. Great information on the remotes. Also excellent idea on the skid steer hookup, I had not been aware of that. The challenge will be the price of an 8540 if I go that route.

One more thing on the Front Loader if you decide to get one with a skid steer hookup and a 3rd function hydraulic valve make sure they put flat face couplers on the front like the skid steers use. That way if you rent a hydraulic skid steer attachment the hoses will connect to your hydraulics on the front.

 

[crazyal]

I would think about resale. Sure right now it's the last thing on your mind but sooner or later you'll want to replace it and when you do not having a FEL or 4wd will hurt you, not just in how much you can sell it for but how long it takes to sell.

 

[stsimon]

I understand about the resale. I can always add the FEL, but the 4wd obviously cannot be deferred. A possibility would be to buy a leat model used one to keep the up front cost in line, but then I would be passing up on the zero percent financing...I do plan on this tractor seeing me out...

Bulldogger - thanks for the flat faced coupler suggestion. That is the kind of technical issue I wouldn't know to even ask about.

 

[MarkV]

Bulldogger - thanks for the flat faced coupler suggestion. That is the kind of technical issue I wouldn't know to even ask about.

I mention this because you have said that much of this is new to you. It is true that skid steer implements can be used on a FEL with the quick attach couple, it is not useable for all skid steer attachments. Many hydraulically operated attachments will require a greater hydraulic flow rate than will be available on your tractor with the optional loader hydraulic set up. For grapples, some post hole augurs and a few other things you are fine. For mowers, power rakes and many others it will not work. Still a great option, just not adequate for all skid steer attachments.

MarkV

 

[stsimon]

MarkV - Thanks for the explanation. I understand.

 

[TripleR]

I drove the M8540 yesterday and was pretty impressed. Cabbed, hydraulic shuttle shift 12F/R, two rear remotes, will widen the stance and fill with windshield wiper fluid, suspension seat and 1353 FEL with 7' loader.

 

[rjkobbeman]

I drove the M8540 yesterday and was pretty impressed. Cabbed, hydraulic shuttle shift 12F/R, two rear remotes, will widen the stance and fill with windshield wiper fluid, suspension seat and 1353 FEL with 7' loader.

Although I am a big fan of the M8540 (obviously), if you get at least the M7040 you get an option to get the cast iron wheels if you get R1s. I would really, really recommend this. Cast iron wheels are an option for the M7040 and up (M8540, M9540, etc.).

I really wish cast iron wheels were an option for R4s which is what I got (I needed the R4s). Had I had the option or if I got the R1s, I would have got them. If needed, you can add weights to the cast iron wheels too.

Since you test-drove an M8540, did you check out the parking brake? It is a transmission lock based brake... and works really good. Another thing you may have noticed is the hydraulic brakes on the M8540. They are very smooth, powerful and easy to operate. Big bonuses in my book.

 

[TripleR]

My youngest son and I both drove it and really liked the parking brake. I especially like it as when my sons set the brake on our other tractors I often have to use my cane to pry up while pushing the button to get moving.

Yes the brakes are nice especially in comparison to what we now have.

I will check on the cast iron wheels, but if I delay too much or go up in cost from our present price the CFO may decide to just fix our old tractor