Z-Michigan
Veteran Member
Bob_Young said:The '08 5203 is supposed to have a synchronized shift between a forward gear (2nd, I think) and reverse in the main transmission. This would make a rather practical mechanical shuttle. Haven't tried one myself, mind you; this is what I've gotten from reading their site.
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Other than the above, the biggest things in favor of the Kubotas from my POV:
1) much better fit & finish
2) Enclosed Bevel gear drive for the front axle
3) FEL is easily removeable....don't think JD is
4) very smooth and up to date engines
5) light agile machines
6) 5040 FEL much stronger than JD; as I recall, the MX HD FEL is a little stronger as well.
Biggest things in favor of the 5203:
1) Larger displacement engine than MX5100, more guts for lugging (about the same size as M5040)
2) Stronger 3PH than MX5100
3) Greater hydraulic pump capacity than MX
4) Mechanical shuttle that allows F-R shift on the move, Kubotas require you to stop (assuming from your price that the M5040 is mech. shuttle)
For what it's worth:
-the mechanical shuttle on the 5203 is quite similar to what's on my 5105. It's a great mechanical shuttle, but I'd still prefer a hydraulic shuttle.
-JD 522 FEL is just as easy to remove as the Kubota FEL (it's not the old solid-mount 512 FEL)
-The Kubota FEL is stronger on paper in the one measurement of lift to full height. If you want 2500lbs sitting almost directly above you 10' in the air, have fun. There is not, IMHO, any practical difference between them. The 522 FEL will lift something like 3500lbs to a 5' height.
-I don't think the mechanical shuttle on the M5040 requires you to come to a stop. It is synchronized. However, the "shuttle" on the MX5000 is unsynchronized and does require a full stop.
-While the bevel gear front axle is a difference on the Kubotas, I don't think it is a plus in strength. It is a small plus in turning radius.