Kubota M8560 and the M9960

[John Paul]

I did a search on here and didn't see a thread started about these new tractors but does anyone have a clue when these two new models might be available for sale? It appears that the M8560 and M9960 will be a little more beefier than the M8540 and M9540 that they are replacing so I'm intrigued since I'm in the market for a new tractor. Thanks in advance.

[wmonroe]

Haven't heard anything about them. What is beefier?

[John Paul]

Haven't heard anything about them. What is beefier?

IT appears they might be addressing the "light in the rear" that people sometimes comment about with these models. Again some speculation but it appears the dry weight of each tractor is about 1500# more than the older models they are replacing. I saw a spec sheet somewhere online but didn't know if these were maybe 2013 sell dates for these two?

[John Paul]

Kubota also Introduces the M8560 and the M9960 Tractor at the Farm Machinery Show

"The Grand X isn’t the only new M-Series tractor in the field: Kubota also introduced the M8560 and M9960 at the Farm Machinery Show, adding strength, comfort and efficiency to its M-Series. Designed to deliver powerful, clean and economical performance, the M8560 boasts 76 PTO horsepower and the M9960 boasts 89 PTO horsepower and a newly-designed 4-cylinder Common Rail System diesel engine that produces clean emissions also meets Interim Tier IV EPA regulations. These are available with 2-or-4-wheel-drive with hydraulic shuttle standard and three transmission options. Other features include a curved upper windshield, rounded glass and conveniently-designed levers and electric switches for optimal comfort and visibility, ideal for long days in the field."

Little tidbit from online.

[MessickFarmEqu]

I think shipments start in 2-3 months.

If there is a weight difference, I would not know why. Its really an update for Teir 4. I'd buy an M9540 if you can still find one.

[John Paul]

Maybe not as much difference as I thought, according to this brochure,

http://www.toplinetrailers.com/docum...60Brochure.PDF

M8540 Cab 4x4 - 6065 lbs (thought it was 5500 lbs)
M8560 Cab 4x4 - 6680 lbs

M9540 Cab 4x4 - 6175 lbs
M9960 Cab 4x5 - 6810 lbs

[TripleR]

I can always add weight to my 8540 if needed.

[red4now]

I can always add weight to my 8540 if needed.

I was thinking the same with our M8540 as well - haven't had a "light rear end" issue to date. Seems fine for what we do - 95% loader work.

[charleyfarmall]

I just took a look at that brochure. Nice machine. The 24x24 transmission would be the cats meow! Nicely spec'd and packaged.

[MHarryE]

Specs of the engine appear identical to the Caterpillar 3.8 engine that is built by Kubota to Caterpillar specifications so is this the Caterpillar 3.8 engine built by Kubota to Kubota specifications? Gotta love this age where when you start dissing the other guy's equipment you are dissing your own. Assuming I am right on the engine heritage and knowing how the Cat 3.8 has been doing owners of these new Kubotas will pay a higher price up front but get it paid back in better fuel economy and improved performance. Time will tell.