tractorcoy said:
Hey everybody, i'm new to this, i'm a young guy looking to buy a tractor around the 70 or 80 HP range and can't decide between a Kubota or a John Deere. I don't know a whole lot about either but I hear good things about both and I am just curious of the expense for maintenance and upkeep on them both. Anyone have any opinions?
I will use it for general farm work on a 150 acre farm. (bushhog, hay, etc.)
Tractorcoy...
Welcome to many good ideas, great advice, and the need for a new budget!
Obviously Kubota and JD both make good tractors. Once you determine what size tractor you want, then you will probably find more models to choose from with JD that meet your needs. And once you find the exact Kubota or JD that you want, I think JD will offer more options.
If memory serves me correctly, the JD 5625 and 5603 both offer 99 or 98 engine HP and 82 PTO hp. This may be bigger than what you are looking for, but it still makes the point. The 5525 is a more expensive tractor and offers more options/luxeries. The 5603 is a value model which will probably be a closer price competitor to Kubota.
And be sure to check the HP numbers for an apple to apple comparison. For example, the JD 5625 is advertised as 99 HP while the JD 6430 is advertised as only 95 HP. Both are correct, but the JD 5625 is 99 engine HP and 82 PTO
HP, while the JD 6430 is actually 115 engine HP and 95 PTO hp. The reason I mention this is because I have seen people with a 5525 say his tractor is the same hp as his friend's 6420 but on a smaller frame. This is not true.
JD also has a 6615 and a 6430 which are both 95 PTO hp. Both are 115 engine hp, but there are several differences. They both offer cab, MFWD, etc., but the 6615 is cheaper. That is about where the similiarities end. The 6430 uses a 4 cylinder engine. The 6615 engine has the exact same bore and stroke, but it is a 6 cylinder (50% more displacement). The 6615 is 10"s longer, but 1000 lbs. lighter. The hydraulic output flow and pressure differ as well as the 3 pt. hitch lift capacity. etc., etc., etc.
Kubota numbers usually refer to engine hp, but the specs will show the details with both manufacturers.
Good luck!