How big a tractor do you really need and are you sure you want to dispense with the hydrostatic transmission? I just spent 4 hrs this morning trying to get ahead of this Mississippi heat bushhogging with my 3038e, moving as quickly as I could, backing into tight spaces, maneuvering slowly around trees then accelerating into open areas, and I can't imagine doing this with a gear transmission. The loader specs of the 3038e would be distinctly inferior to the 5000 series, but the PTO output of 3038e likely would fit your needs. I had the hydrostatic pedal floored in 1st gear in open pasture and my 6 foot hog didn't bog down. If I had a tall 5000 series going under these pine limbs, I would have "clothes-lined" myself a few dozen times!
I'm quite happy with my 3038e on my hundred acres, but if I wanted more power, capability and stability, I'd go with the hydrostatic 4120. A lot of good folks on this forum recommend the power of the 5000 series; don't forget convenience, ease of operation, and compact footprint.
