New toy input

[Hootie]

Have acquired 40 acres where I am gonna run my girls (cows-polled herefords). The place has been used for cattle in the past , has been about ten years. I will be hogging, cleaning-up and then will be using the tractor for carrying round bales (1200-1800 lbs) & hogging. The place is relatively flat. Gotta have a new toy since the BX2200 won't get 'er done. Am looking at Grand L 5030 size tractor. We always want more hp so I am of course torn as to what to consider. M4800 and the MX5000 are in the running. 4800 is a heavier tractor w/one more pto hp than the 5000. I will settle for a 6' hog. That will give me more seat time!! I don't have to have HST. I appreciate any feedback. Thanks in advance

 

[hunterridgefarm]

I am in the same situation. I currently have a 3130 that I use to hog and finish mow about 7 acres. I have 40 acres that is 90% wooded to build on. Another track across the road is about 40 acres of fields that was once used for cattle. I have look at the L5030, M4800, MX5000, M4900 and M6800 for maintaining the 40+ acres of fields for cattle and hay. The M4800 is partially synchronized so its out. The MX5000 was at one time partially synchronized but I think that has changed. The 5030 has a small fuel tank and cost wise is a couple thousand higher than the MX5000. I like the M4900 due to the larger tires that will take ruts and rough fields easier and is overall a larger frame tractor. Costwise it is about the same price as the 5030. The M6800 is also in the running because of the 62 PTO hp for larger round bales. You may want to compare the M4900. If my choices were only between the 5030 and the MX5000 it would be a hard choice because both would do the job, however you would need the heavier FEL to lift the large round bales. I plan to keep my 3130 but for the type of farm work I am wanting to do it is between the M4900 and M6800. Now I am trying to decide on the Cab.