Kubota M6040 vs. New Holland T4020? Which should I buy?

[RickB]

Thanks guys for the thoughts.

I'm starting to lean towards the New Holland over the Kubota for several reasons. I've test driven both of the tractors and personally liked the feel of the New Holland, feels more like my 3930. I also noticed that the New Holland appeared to be more service friendly like RickB pointed out. Also talked to a diesel mechanic at work and he said the Consolidated Diesel engine on Case and New Holland beats a Kubota hands down, don't have to mess with glow plugs. I've asked a bunch of people what they would buy and 2/3 to 3/4 say Kubota, but I'm starting to think it's just because they tend to see more of them out there. Both are great tractors...

Ya'll have any other thoughts on the subject? I have read New Hollands can have some electrical issues. Has any one experienced this or know someone who has? Maybe NH has worked out the kinks.

There is some criticism of the New Holland PowerShuttle electronics package. I think it is a great system and generally gives little trouble, but as with anything, if it gives problems, there is dissatisfaction. In terms of electrical problems, the mechanical shuttle New Hollands are quite a bit simpler and generally less problematic because of that simplicity and relative lack of components.

 

[nh3930]

Thanks RickB,

I didn't have a chance to test drive a T4000 with the PowerShuttle, but I did have a chance to test drive a Kubota M7040 with Hydraulic Shuttle. I personally didn't like it much, I'm so use to a manual shuttle I think my foot is going to be reaching for the clutch regardless. I really liked the manual shuttle on the T4020. I'd rather have the simpler set-up; less to have go wrong and easier to fix. I'm glad to hear it doesn't have any big electrical issues.

 

[big bubba]

a plug for the 7040. apparently the wet clutch pack long outlasts the single mechanical shuttle dry clutch. the 7040 also has the ft. differential for smoother operation. I too am a manual clutch guy, but it didn't take long to take to the hyd shuttle....looking back I wouldn't consider a mechanical shuttle now (kubota)....but sounds like you're on the right track checking it all out. good luck bb

 

[nh3930]

thanks for the comment about the 7040 and the hydro shuttle. the dealer said something about the wet clutch lasting longer than the dry clutch on the manual shuttle, but he also mentioned that it all depends too on who's driving the tractor. he said he's had to replace some clutches after only 400 hours while other tractors with 3000 hours, never having to replace the clutch. do you happen to know the cost when it comes to replaing the wet clutch versus the dry?

 

[big bubba]

boy, can't answer that one, but bet it's high either way....a question for one of the mechanics (not the salesman or service rep).....if you've been weaned on gears I'm sure either would give you years of service....my '61 MF 35 had it's original clutch (28 yrs of my use) when I traded it in a few yrs ago for the 8540, so if your rig is new, buying solely for the wet vs dry may not really be an issue.....burning clutches may only apply for newbies or rental. I really do like the hyd action in fel work and engage it when the the motion is nearly stopped to avoid any abuse....actually a central k technician told me that it is less stress to the power train to use the hyd shuttle w/o petal clutch action than with (something to do with valve, etc) anyway, you have lots more issues to decide than this, just thought I'd throw it in. BTW there are LOTS of 85 & 9540's out there doing hay, but it may be overkill and priced for your needs. good luck bb

 

[brin]

Thanks guys for the thoughts.

I'm starting to lean towards the New Holland over the Kubota for several reasons. I've test driven both of the tractors and personally liked the feel of the New Holland, feels more like my 3930. I also noticed that the New Holland appeared to be more service friendly like RickB pointed out. Also talked to a diesel mechanic at work and he said the Consolidated Diesel engine on Case and New Holland beats a Kubota hands down, don't have to mess with glow plugs. I've asked a bunch of people what they would buy and 2/3 to 3/4 say Kubota, but I'm starting to think it's just because they tend to see more of them out there. Both are great tractors...

Ya'll have any other thoughts on the subject? I have read New Hollands can have some electrical issues. Has any one experienced this or know someone who has? Maybe NH has worked out the kinks.

I have had my New Holland TC - 29 D for 9 yrs. now and love it and I looked Kubota before I bought. I happen to think the weight difference is a big deal for performance, traction and safety reasons. Absolutely no electrical issues at all. In fact ( Knock on Wood ) no need in 9 yrs. for any dealer service except a rusty clutch from not keeping the clutch pedal depressed when stored for long periods of time..but that can happen to any tractor. All I have had to do in 9 yrs. is the required service. I once posted here and asked why the cheering for Kubota was so strong and found out that TBN originally was a Kubota only site.

 

[E/S]

Don't let the weight issue sway your decision, I put 6 wheel weights on the rear of my 85 and have no traction issues at all.
I have found that people gravitate toward the brand they are comfortable / familiar with, buy what fits your needs and you experience.

E/S

 

[nh3930]

I think I'm going with the New Holland T4020. I just like how the controls and platform feel and I think it is going to be less hassle to service in the long run. I have two dealers that are pricing out for me right now. I have them talked down to $25,190 and the other is at $21,300...a no-brainer in my book.

The new T4020 specs are 4wd, 16.9R28 rear tires w/antifreeze ballast, 11.2R20 front tires, 12x12 synchronized trans w/syynchronized mechanical shuttle, rear remote valve and horizontal exhaust including service and delivery.

What rear tires come standard on a T4020? Does anyone know? One dealer is specing it with 14.9's and the other with 16.9's; and the 16.9's are on the tractor for $21,300.

It looks like I'm getting a deal. Anyone have any suggestions?

Also, this difference in tire size wouldn't have a significant difference in wear and tear or performance, would it?

Any help would be greatly appreciated!

 

[Hematite]

You've made an excellent choice.

I wonder if the different tire size (14.9) was a typo from that dealer?

 

[nh3930]

Thanks Hematite,

So are you suggesting that the 16.9 comes standard on the NH T4020?