Comparison JD 5065E VS JD 5065M...$10,000 QUESTION

[peter_vii]

I have been considering upgrading my current tractor. I have read of this similar comparison in a couple of threads. I have read many posts where the "E" series are referred to as entry level or basic machines and the "M" series described as much more tractor. In comparing the 5065E and 5065M with about the same features, I come up with approximately a $10,000 difference. The "M" series is about 1300 lbs heavier, has extendable draft links std., rear work light std. and a 5-cylinder engine vs. the 3-cylinder. For the part time farmer, food plot maintenance, basic property up keep and occasional loader work what is it about the "M" series that is $10,000 better? I grew up on standard gear tractors from the 40's and 70's. The current 5105 with SyncReverser is a huge upgrade from what I was used to. I just can't see the justification behind the "M" series for my uses. Is the performance of the "M" series going to be that much better and more particulary $10,000 better? For reference, I am trying to find something that matches or beats the performance of a Ford 4000 with loaded 16.9-30 rear tires. I gave an offer on a JD 5303 last week, but want to make sure I make the right decision the first time.

Since you are looking at 65 models, I assume you have less than 100 ac to maintain. I have 5083E on my 80 ac property, and I can't think of any job that 5083M would do better than 5083E. Why would you need a heavier tractor? Plowing, baling? I believe E series is perfect fit for small farmers.
JD tractors are one of the heaviest anyway. 5063E would pull 3 bottom plows and bale with small round balers without any problems.

I would not spent 10K more on M series. Instead, buy more used implements.
Specs don't matter. As long as you can do your jobs with E series, buy that series. Don't waste your money.

I knew all the specs of my 5083E at one time, now I don't remember any of them, but I know that it works like a Swiss watch.

Just MHO,
Peter

 

[deere5105]

Since you are looking at 65 models, I assume you have less than 100 ac to maintain. I have 5083E on my 80 ac property, and I can't think of any job that 5083M would do better than 5083E. Why would you need a heavier tractor? Plowing, baling? I believe E series is perfect fit for small farmers.
JD tractors are one of the heaviest anyway. 5063E would pull 3 bottom plows and bale with small round balers without any problems.

I would not spent 10K more on M series. Instead, buy more used implements.
Specs don't matter. As long as you can do your jobs with E series, buy that series. Don't waste your money.

I knew all the specs of my 5083E at one time, now I don't remember any of them, but I know that it works like a Swiss watch.

Just MHO,
Peter

Peter,
I made the decision and went with a 2008 5303. This is the previous model number of the current 5065E. Thanks for the reply.

 

[Johndeere3720]

Hey, congrats on the 5303. Sounds like your gonna have a lot of fun with it. :thumbsup:

 

[dwschmidt]

Congrats on the purchase. I see you were looking at a 5420 at one point. Are there many differences, other than the 5420 having higher HP? Or was it just a better deal on the 5303? I may be in a similar position, except upgrading from a massey ferguson 165. Leaning towards green tractors so far in my searching.

Thanks,

Duane.

 

[deere5105]

The main differences I recall was the 5420 had a longer wheel base, had more HP, was a little heavier and had larger tires. The overall function of the two were basically the same. I found a much better deal through Trigreen Equipment in Athens,AL on the 5303. The 5303 is in like new condition and the 5420 was a little older unit without the FEL I wanted. In the end the deal drove my decision and the 5303 was a better fit. Good luck in your search.

 

[em14]

I realize this is a seven year old thread and is rather long thou very interesting to me. I notice that through all of the thread there is no mention of the Torque of the "M vs E" engine and that is the point I see as the major difference between the two. The M appears to have 277 lb-ft where the E has something around 177 lb-ft. (Per Tractor Data.)
Leo