Which tractor?

Delta Dave · Oct 29, 2007

I'm in the market for a tractor for planting about 20 acres of deer fields, maintaining a pond, mowing/fixing the roads, general property maintenance as well as anything else. I was thinking of maybe a 4x4 in a JD 5303 or Kubota M6040. I'm a greenhorn with tractors but with plenty of since when it comes to figuring out mechanical problems. I thought that these both looked pretty simple and would be good to start with. What are the big differences between these 2 tractors and should I consider anything else?

Thanks for the help.

rtdiggr · Oct 29, 2007

I love my Massey it is a 1433v and does everything i want it to. Backhoes are really nice!!!!!!!
Shane

kozak · Oct 29, 2007

Delta Dave, welcome to TBN.

For your needs both of these tractors would be nice. The 6030 (6040 older series ?) obviously is a little more tractor so has better capabilities. For either go with the optional transmission for easier shifting. Since I'm a HP junky I would definitely go with the 6030. Looks like the Utility tractor (5303) does not have a Cab option so if you were thinking about a cab that would steer you to a 6030. Your tasks would be a little easier & quicker with the 6030 but the 5303 would be able to tackle your chores well enough.

Maybe one of the other TBN'ers who actually own one of these models will comment. Should maybe consider posting in the JD forum.

My .02 worth,

Vic

Delta Dave · Oct 29, 2007

The M6040 is a Kubota, I went back and edited the original post to prevent confusion. The reason I didn't post in the JD forum was to compare to similar tractor (I think) from different manufactures. I'm not looking for a cab. Also can you use a backhoe and still have the 3 point hitch for disking, bush hogging and spreading? I'll try to check out the Masseys.

daTeacha · Oct 29, 2007

You would at least need to take the hoe off, obviously. I don't know if the subframe would interfere with the use of the 3 point, but logically it would be best if it didn't. This might depend on the machine and backhoe you choose.

kozak · Oct 29, 2007

Delta Dave said:
The M6040 is a Kubota, I went back and edited the original post to prevent confusion. The reason I didn't post in the JD forum was to compare to similar tractor (I think) from different manufactures. I'm not looking for a cab. Also can you use a backhoe and still have the 3 point hitch for disking, bush hogging and spreading? I'll try to check out the Masseys.

oops.....I really know my tractors don't I.

That's a good comparison between different makes. Don't see much difference in capabilities. John Deere might be a little heavier.

Vic