M5660SU/M5X5800

[SDT]

A close friend of mine is planning to buy his first new Kubota early in 2018, and has asked me for advise.

He plans to operate a HD 6' rotary cutter, 6' tiller, 2 bottom plow, small three point mounted disc, as well as a FEL mounted (or, perhaps three point) fence post driver. Some of his ground is steep.

On paper both the M5660SU and the MX5800 appear appropriate for his needs and budget but the 5660 is a new model.

Anyone have any experience with the 5660, pros/cons.

He is aware that the 5800 is a hydrostat and does not believe that he needs, or even wants one but is open to either.

SDT

 

[TripleR]

No experience with the M5660, but we have an M8540 12x12 and GL5740 which is the size of the MX5800. The MX is a bit misleading as it is not really an M Series, it is essentially the same as an old GL30, check the specs on Tractor Data. I do everything with my 5740 he is going to do, but if an HST is of no interest, I'd go with the M5660, park the two side by side and spend some time on them and I believe that will decide for him.

Just one opinion for what it's worth.

 

[jeff9366]

Both simple, utilitarian tractors. Both have turbo-charged engines.

MX5800 weighs 3,734 pounds, bare tractor.

M5660SU weighs 4,387 pounds with 4-WD, bare tractor.

With the odd assortment and sizes of implements your friend is not an ag operator.

Either tractor will do fine.

If he wants a gear transmission, he will need to opt for the M5660SU. He should research if the M5660SU lowest gear will provide a slow enough ground speed for the roto-tiller to stir the soil properly.


I recommend HST for tractor operation on steep terrain.



advice

 

[LD1]

Similar tractors, but the 5660 is about 500 pounds beefier and has some taller front tires. Both of which make a smoother ride and a bit harder pulling machine.

But given that....the tasks listed isnt much work for the tractors you list. A two bottom plow and a small mounted disc could be pulled with a 1000# lighter 30hp tractor. Same with a 6' hog.

HST is nice for the mowing and for loader work.

Agree with tripleR. Get some seat time testing both and then decide. But either will handle the implements you list with ease

 

[SDT]

Local dealer has one of each and I've reviewed the specs of both. I have an M9960 and an L6060.

Frankly, I believe that the 5660 is more suited for my friend but it's a brand new model and little feedback is available. Wondering if anyone has heard of problems/reviews, etc.

SDT

 

[MtnViewRanch]

The M5660SU is just the newest economy model in the M series tractors. There have been several others in the 40 series units. An M7040SU and an M5640SU.

Look up the 40 series machines to find any feed back.

 

[Farmer495]

M5660SU is kind of a cross between the M5640SU and M7040SU. Same back end and trans as the last version of the M7040SU (same 8 speed power shuttle) and the smaller engine from the M5640SU but with DPF etc.

I'd say the tractor is proven and solid.