Buying Advice L, M, or MX series? Can you offer guidance?

[cmikewil]

Hey all,

I'm a satisfied owner of a BX-25 for over a year now. I bought mine to handle smaller chores around my SE Ohio farm, while leaving the larger jobs (like bush hogging 30+acres) to my 2 wheel drive Massey Ferguson 231.

I have to say that, looking back, I'm wishing that I'd bought a larger Kubota (or other 4wdrive tractor w/front end loader) to replace that Massey. I can't tell you how handy that FEL and 4 wheel drive have been - though you folks certainly know that. So, I'm toying with trading the BX-25 on something larger. I may even sell the Massey toward the purchase.

Looking through threads as I have over the last year, I know many of you have replaced or upgraded a tractor. Can you offer comments or guidance?

I'm looking to:

* stay with Kubota or other reliable, well-known brand. Reliability and availability of parts are key for me, as I'd likely keep this tractor a long, long time. I simply cannot afford to trade. This needs to last 20+ years with me putting 100 hrs or less per year on it.

* My Massey 231 is rated at 34 horse +/- depending on the year. I don't want anything smaller, and cannot imagine needing anything over 50. Please comment.

* Frills (a cab, air, other additions expensive to replace later) aren't important to me. The Massey is pretty bare bones with little to go wrong. While a replacement Kubota would likely include much more, I want to look ahead 20 years and choose wisely.

* I bushhog on some pretty steep hills. My Massey is close to 4000 pounds. I'm using a 6' Bush Hog brand mower, and don't want to end up with something too light. While I have the tires loaded on the Massey, I'd prefer to use wheel weights/front weights on the new tractor to combat corrosion. I'm aware of the beet juice option; I'd simply like to start by adding weight. I'll load wheels as a second resort.

* I'd like 4 wheel drive. Any reason to be concerned with reliability?

* Depending on the size of the Kubota, it appears that either a gearbox or hydrostatic drive are available. I'm used to the 4 speed, plus a high/low range on the Massey, but cannot deny that the hydro unit on my BX-25 is terrific. What do you folks think? Can a hydrostatic unit on a larger tractor hold up long term? With no more maintenance than a traditional gearbox?

* If a gearbox is the choice, can the Kubota units be shifted while the tractor is moving? I cannot shift while moving with the Massey, and it's a real inconvenience.

* Any concerns with the "new" Kubota engines the manufacturer is advertising? I'd much rather buy something a couple of years old with a few hours on it than chance high dollar repairs on something unproven.

* Some of the engines include turbos. Is this something that should last the life of the engine?

* After having the FEL on the BX, I'd like it's replacement to have one also - or at least have the ability to add one later. So I need front remotes, right? And probably want rear remotes also in the event I add something like a tiller at a later date?

I'm guessing that I'm looking for an M/MX series?

Thanks for taking the time to read and comment. Please know that I am talking to a dealer; I am looking at tractors on the lot. I simply do not understand some of the features available on modern tractors. I really don't want to look back 2 years from now and wish that somebody had talked me into adding remotes for the front end, or 4wd. Thus far, I feel like my dealer would simply like to sell me what happens to be sitting on the lot. A nice fellow, but I can't say that he has my best interests (financial & long term) in mind. You folks have experience to offer, and I'll appreciate your honest responses, and/or links to previous posts.

Any Kubota "package" I should be looking at? Like the BX-25 for example, which had an FEL and backhoe?

Any special pricing/rebates I should be paying attention to?

Can anybody suggest an easy to read list of MSRPs for the new Kubotas? I'm aware of the online "built a tractor" tool that give you a price, but simply would like to see what the range of prices for the models I might be considering are.

What am I missing?

Thank you for your responses!

 

[creekbend]

I bought a Kubota L4400 a little over a year ago and it serves my needs. It is not my intent to attempt to influence you in regards to the make and model. But I would like to make these suggestions. Get a tractor with a FEL. You will find so many uses for it. Also 4-WD. Best wishes.

 

[DT86]

I'll share some of my opinions...

Lets just say you do stick with Kubota. Just because that's what I own and know about.

First off I'd buy the most tractor I could afford. You don't want to be here next year saying you bought a tractor to replace your too small BX and now wish you'd went bigger.

Reliability of a four wheel drive should be no concern.

The Kubota and I'm pretty sure most all new gear tractors will shift on the go.

Once you've had a loader, a life without one would be no fun. Go ahead and get it financed with the tractor. Also if a quick connect (skid steer) bucket is an option go for it.

As for rear hydraulics, get two sets at least. You'll probably find a use for them.

The L5240 with hydro trans might be all you need but for the same money you can get a larger sized M5140 with hydro shuttle.

If you can take a day to visit other dealers with more or different inventory it would be time well spent. You might find green, blue, red or even a slightly different shade of orange better fills your needs.

I hope any of this can help.

 

[94BULLITT]

I really like my grand l. It is a good sized tractor and you can do a lot with it. I would think any gran l should pull a 6ft rotary cutter. I personally prefer a hydro tractor. I think a hydro is just about as durable as a gear tractor. I would not be concerned with the reliability of 4wd. The grand l's with hydro without a loader start out a 3600#'s. You can get your tire loaded with methanol and it will no corrode them. Here is a link to kubota rebates. Here is a link to their financing rates/specials.

 

[jimstubb]

I'm looking at the mx5100 right now. I have a MF 1080 that runs pretty well but is a bit bigger than I need and is showing it's age. Like you I'll probably keep the Massey Ferguson for bush hogging. The mx5100 looks to be a good size with more maneuverability. Definitely looking for a FEL but I'm thinking I don't need to add a back remote to the Kubota since most of what I'll use will work with a 3 point hitch. 4WD is a necessity on my land but I think the traditional gearbox will be fine. I probably won't use it more than 100hr/year.

I'm also looking at the JD 5055.

 

[azbinder]

The L3800HST can be equipped with 3 rear remotes. Also, it will accept the FL524 (not FL524FL) loader w/SSQA and the BH77 backhoe. This tractor will handle the 72" cutter with no problem. The L3800 has the proven "old" proven style engine that Kubota has been using for years. Still no computer and no fly by wire.

 

[LD1]

You really need to go look at them. The M is the basic no-frills workhorse. (basic by todays standards, but still more features than the old MF). The MX is a smaller version but still pretty basic and would be the cheapest option. The L is bigger than the MX, cost more than the M or the MX, But has all the "bells and whistles".

That said, I dont know where you are located in SE ohio, but I think their is (or was) a kioti dealer in nelsonville. They are alot of "bang for buck" tractor, Something Like a Dk50-Dk65 would be similar in comparisons to the M's in kubotas line-up. I would have given kioti a harder look but I have no dealers around me There are pleanty of satisfied owners on here. And look on the bright side, you can park it a distance away and it will look like a kubota

 

[PHILIP8N]

Hey all,

I'm a satisfied owner of a BX-25 for over a year now. I bought mine to handle smaller chores around my SE Ohio farm, while leaving the larger jobs (like bush hogging 30+acres) to my 2 wheel drive Massey Ferguson 231.
I owned a JD rider and a Ford 8N, similar situation.

I have to say that, looking back, I'm wishing that I'd bought a larger Kubota (or other 4wdrive tractor w/front end loader) to replace that Massey. I can't tell you how handy that FEL and 4 wheel drive have been - though you folks certainly know that. So, I'm toying with trading the BX-25 on something larger. I may even sell the Massey toward the purchase.
I'd sell the Massy. If like me, you will still want a rider.
Looking through threads as I have over the last year, I know many of you have replaced or upgraded a tractor. Can you offer comments or guidance?

I'm looking to:

* stay with Kubota or other reliable, well-known brand. Reliability and availability of parts are key for me, as I'd likely keep this tractor a long, long time. I simply cannot afford to trade. This needs to last 20+ years with me putting 100 hrs or less per year on it.
Agree
* My Massey 231 is rated at 34 horse +/- depending on the year. I don't want anything smaller, and cannot imagine needing anything over 50. Please comment.
I replaced my 8N with L3940-HST. Tractor has exceeded all expectations.
* Frills (a cab, air, other additions expensive to replace later) aren't important to me. The Massey is pretty bare bones with little to go wrong. While a replacement Kubota would likely include much more, I want to look ahead 20 years and choose wisely.
Open station was my choice too.

* I bushhog on some pretty steep hills. My Massey is close to 4000 pounds. I'm using a 6' Bush Hog brand mower, and don't want to end up with something too light. While I have the tires loaded on the Massey, I'd prefer to use wheel weights/front weights on the new tractor to combat corrosion. I'm aware of the beet juice option; I'd simply like to start by adding weight. I'll load wheels as a second resort.
My L3940 weighs 3600 pounds without FEL attached. It also pulls a 6' hog.
* I'd like 4 wheel drive. Any reason to be concerned with reliability?
No, tens upon thousands of them are out there, some are used very hard by people who are hired to operate them, as opposed to owner operator.
* Depending on the size of the Kubota, it appears that either a gearbox or hydrostatic drive are available. I'm used to the 4 speed, plus a high/low range on the Massey, but cannot deny that the hydro unit on my BX-25 is terrific. What do you folks think? Can a hydrostatic unit on a larger tractor hold up long term? With no more maintenance than a traditional gearbox?
HST in this size is very dependable and a common choice for obviuos reasons. The GrandL HST has 3 mechanical ranges, plus 2 hydraulic ranges (shift on the go), for 6 total forward/reverse ranges.
* If a gearbox is the choice, can the Kubota units be shifted while the tractor is moving? I cannot shift while moving with the Massey, and it's a real inconvenience.
Some models offer 2 different types of mechanical gear boxes. Get a sales brochure and read up.* Any concerns with the "new" Kubota engines the manufacturer is advertising? I'd much rather buy something a couple of years old with a few hours on it than chance high dollar repairs on something unproven.
At the horsepower range you are dealing with, no. The engine is not new. Some fuel injuection strategy may be different, or maybe the addition of simple exhaust after treatment. See what the difference is. My 2009 L3940 has a tier4i engine, no difference and no issues.* Some of the engines include turbos. Is this something that should last the life of the engine?
I do not like turbos in the +/- 40 hp range. But if you get a turbo, it should last the life that you use the tractor if properly maintained.* After having the FEL on the BX, I'd like it's replacement to have one also - or at least have the ability to add one later. So I need front remotes, right? And probably want rear remotes also in the event I add something like a tiller at a later date?
The GrandL comes with all hydraulic front remotes already fitted. I paid extra for the 2 rear remotes on mine.I'm guessing that I'm looking for an M/MX series?
For your needs, I would look at the L3940-hst or L4240 hst.Thanks for taking the time to read and comment. Please know that I am talking to a dealer; I am looking at tractors on the lot. I simply do not understand some of the features available on modern tractors. I really don't want to look back 2 years from now and wish that somebody had talked me into adding remotes for the front end, or 4wd. Thus far, I feel like my dealer would simply like to sell me what happens to be sitting on the lot. A nice fellow, but I can't say that he has my best interests (financial & long term) in mind. You folks have experience to offer, and I'll appreciate your honest responses, and/or links to previous posts.

Any Kubota "package" I should be looking at? Like the BX-25 for example, which had an FEL and backhoe?

Any special pricing/rebates I should be paying attention to?

Can anybody suggest an easy to read list of MSRPs for the new Kubotas? I'm aware of the online "built a tractor" tool that give you a price, but simply would like to see what the range of prices for the models I might be considering are.

What am I missing?

Get some sales brochures and read up! Good luck! Philip.
Thank you for your responses!

See my comments above embedded in your message. Philip.

 

[LD1]

See my comments above embedded in your message. Philip.

Just a quick suggestion.....It is easier to read/follow when you embed text within the post if you make it a different color. Like red or blue:thumbsup:

 

[PHILIP8N]

Just a quick suggestion.....It is easier to read/follow when you embed text within the post if you make it a different color. Like red or blue:thumbsup I'll do that next time, I just found the option! (I think):

Philip.

 

[LD1]

Philip.

Yea, dont take it personal or the wrong way. It just makes it easier on everyone else to enjoy the great info you have given the OP instead of just skipping it.

PS: you can still edit the post. All you have to do is highlight what you wrote and click a color.

 

[bucktaker]

OP Just a thought whats wrong with what you have? The MF231 is a rugged platform and if its in good shape will perform all the duties you have described very well. the BX is small and manuverable 4wd and has a fel. How do you think you can improve this with a single tractor? I used a mf35 deluxe with FEL for many years on my 10ac Sw ohio flat land and replaced it with a L5740 w/fel. Partly because I still have the mf35 and Im in the process of overhauling the engine with complete sleeves, pistons, bearings etc. I wonder if I had gone the route of maybe a b series kubota with fel for my utility duties and the mf for the occassional heavy work (mowing) would I have a better fit for each task? I really like my L5740 and got it bought for a relatively great price,but after having it for a almost a year now I have not even come close to using it to its full ability.

My suggestion if you want/need a new tractor is a Large B (3200 or 3300) and keep the MF231 until you determine you only need one tractor. The price of older tractors are way down justifying to me to keep my old MF35 Deluxe as I have more in it than the current market. I guess I may make it a parade tractor. dont tell my wife

 

[TripleR]

I sure wish I could be of more help, but there are just so many models just within the Kubota line to pick a "best tractor" for your needs. I have used and looked at quite a few tractors and now primarily use a L5740 and M8540; both are perfect for our needs/"wants". That having been said, they have all the "bells and whistles" you don't want that I find essential.

The L3700SU, L3800, L4400, L4600, GL3540-L5040, MX4700, MX5100 and M5140 will all do what you want and can be equipped to your specs. Obviously I prefer Kubota, but would recommend looking at all top brands with good dealers in your area; hard to overstate how important a good dealer is.

Loaded tires/wheel weights: For me I prefer fluid, but there is nothing wrong with weights other than cost. We have a tractor with both and I may add weights to my L5740 if needed; use depends, so modifications can be made later.

4 wheel drive: A must have when working in hills, tried both.

HST: I have driven a couple of pretty old HST's and I personally have no concerns about long term reliability. I drive an HST+ and 12/12 Hydraulic Shuttle Shift and like both though the HST is easier to use. Some prefer one, some prefer the other and still some really like the GST.

New Kubota Engines: I honestly don't know, but I traded this year to get ahead of the Tier IV engines; smart move or stupid, time will tell.

Turbos: I live in farm country and turbos are nothing new, our renters have some older tractors with them and both my primary tractors have them. There again, some people don't like them, some do.

FEL: We have tractors with them and some without, I won't buy another without one.

Remotes: I put three sets on my last tractor as I have Top and Tilt. I consider a hydraulic top link as one of the best things you can do, so I would go with at least one set, preferably two sets.

Sorry, but I just have to address the area of "frills" as you mention long term use/ownership. I am 65 and can't drive any of the tractors I was driving when I was 45 and they are all at another farm being used by other family members and I had to buy new in spite of fully serviceable tractors on hand.

I am certainly no expert, so don't take my opinions too seriously.

If you can pick a tractor with:

1. Just the right horsepower, no more no less.
2. Just the right weight, no more no less.
3. Just the right loader/backhoe performance, no more no less.
4. Just the right tires.
5. Just the right transmission for ALL of your needs.
6. Just the right price, no more; don't worry about the "less" part, won't happen.
7. Just the right size; not too big and not too small, just right.

If you can do all this and more that you aspire to in your tractor selection, you can retire from your present job and become a very successful tractor consultant.

 

[PHILIP8N]

Yea, dont take it personal or the wrong way. It just makes it easier on everyone else to enjoy the great info you have given the OP instead of just skipping it.

PS: you can still edit the post. All you have to do is highlight what you wrote and click a color.

I did not, glad you pointed it out and made me learn how to do it. Philip.

 

[KYDan]

I have had the MX5100, 4WD, HST, for a little over a year now and I love it. It is my 2nd Kubota, the first one was an L2900. They are the most reliable tractors that I have ever owned or used. The MX5100 is a great tractor and one of the best value tractors Kubota offers (I really think it is the best value tractor they offer.) I have 150 hours on it and it has performed flawlessly. I just posted a review on it this morning. The petty things that I have to say about it are that like all Kubotas it is light, it is a little thirsty, but it is a 51HP, HST, turbocharged machine. It is noisy, ear protection is a must. The seat safety switch is a pain, and there is no brake on warning light. I have a great dealer only 8 miles from my home so that really sweetens the deal. If you are going to purchase a new one get it before Tier 4 kicks in as it will add significant cost and complexity. Good luck.

 

[LD1]

I did not, glad you pointed it out and made me learn how to do it. Philip.

No problem. Heck, I am still learning new things about the forum. But it is MUCH easier to distinguish between YOUR writing and the OP's when you answer his questions within a post like that:thumbsup: I just didnt want to sound like a smart@$$ or anything, cause I see you have been around a few years and several posts, and though you knew that but just chose not to use the features:confused3: Glad I was truly helpful

 

[94BULLITT]

Were you planning on keeping the bx? I think you may miss it if you got rid of it?

 

[Bluegill2]

No worries with the 'new' Kubotas. Just pick the size/price you want.

Two tractors is better than one.

 

[Katahdin]

I just bought a Yanmar LX, I figure it compares to a Kubota L series. You can get some really good discounts and a better warranty (5 years for the powertrain 2 years for the other tractor components). I test drove a Kubota HST and the Yanmar version just seemed smoother to me. Yanmar is a well established global company that also supplies industrial, marine, and John Deere engines so parts availability shouldn't be an issue. Go have some fun and test drive as many makes and models as you can!

I opted not to go with a turbo engine model. The parts (starters, alternators, etc) for the smaller displacement turbo engine seemed more expensive. I also know from experience that turbos need to be cooled down after use and running them at idle speeds leads to wet stacking issues.

 

[cmikewil]

Were you planning on keeping the bx? I think you may miss it if you got rid of it?

I'm certain I will miss it, but really don't want to be maintaining 2 or more tractors.

I just keep thinking that ,"If only this BX would pull my brush hog". I really like it; just wish my larger utility tractor were a large Kubota.

I have only 45 hours on the BX; it would make sense to use the value on a replacement now.

In short, when I bought the Massey, I bought what I could afford. And recently, I bought the BX to supplement it just because I could. I didn't foresee liking it so well.