Problems I should look out for in 5203 purchse?

Verticaltrx · Oct 15, 2012

I've been looking for a 40-50hp 2wd utility tractor and came across a nice looking Deere 5203, 2007 model with 300hrs. I haven't had a chance to drive the tractor or look it over beyond a quick glance. What kind of problems should I look out for in this series tractor? I've read quite a few accounts of trouble with the 3pt hitch. What kind of a price range would be considered good (just the basic tractor, no loader, accessories or remotes)?

Thanks for any input.

deere5105 · Oct 15, 2012

Verticaltrx said:
I've been looking for a 40-50hp 2wd utility tractor and came across a nice looking Deere 5203, 2007 model with 300hrs. I haven't had a chance to drive the tractor or look it over beyond a quick glance. What kind of problems should I look out for in this series tractor? I've read quite a few accounts of trouble with the 3pt hitch. What kind of a price range would be considered good (just the basic tractor, no loader, accessories or remotes)?

Thanks for any input.

Is this the black painted engine or green? Seems like the lift issues were with the early models and not so common on the later models. The 2.9L engine has been around several years and in my opinion is solid.

I would figure $10k to $12k asking price and would shoot for $9k to $11k if buying.

Verticaltrx · Oct 16, 2012

It is the one with the black undercarriage, I think they switched midway through '07 but I don't recall exactly. Not worried about the engine, they have used the 2.9L since 80's and before that in a smaller displacement. I also think the transmission/rear end should be solid, it's the basically same as they've used since '92 when the 5000 series came out. The issue with the 3pt hitch is is only thing holding me up. This tractor will be used primarily for my business, so the 3pt will be used a lot, downtime is expensive, and the tractor will have to sit outside when on jobsites (rust seems to aggravate the issue from my research.) Seems like a good solid tractor other than this.

Kessler Farms · Oct 16, 2012

I have two 5403s and a 5203. I've had no issues with any of them, including the lift arm issue. I paid $11,000 for the 5203 with 170 hrs.

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ctlguy · Oct 16, 2012

Have been around a bunch of these myself and cant speak to any three point issues, pretty good plane Jane tractor IMO and have held their value well in the used market.

deere5105 · Oct 16, 2012

Was hoping Kessler would chime in. There are a few others on this site using these models. The lift arm issues, if I recall correctly, were not major repair issues. At this point I would not hesitate to buy another.