Re: Max28xl shuttle Things I like and don't like, my 3-1/2 cents.
Hooks on the bucket would be great - I'll weld some on if it ever warms up in NH - congrats on the new tractor ☺
It will be August before the snow piles are gone. Heaven has froze over.
My review with all of 3.6 hours on the Max and +4,000 hours on other equipment.
2013 Mahindra Max 28XL Shuttle, So far I have 3.6 hrs on machine.
I like the transmission. While not as nice as the GST of a bigger Kubota, the 8x8 forward and reverse with synchronized gears, a separate reverser, and Hi-Low ranges is really nice to work, compared to the 2 Speed HST's and 3 x 2 Gears boxes of the typical competition.
Build quality is decent, hoverer paint has no primer, brittle as glass, and from what I've seen, Mahindra paint has little UV protection.
Max28 tractor specs extremely well against even larger tractors, I was looking for small. This tractor is a largish small compact.
The bucket is sure tiny and like all CUTS, wimpy. I may hang weights off the front bracket so the front has more weight back-dragging. A little more iron in the loader and bucket would make me happy. (Search for my post with Photos of reinforced bucket)
As the Loader does not have a 4 bar link, the dump angle is limited.
This tractor should fit in real well taking its place as the new small tractor on the farm.
Other than the suggestions below this is a great value in a small tractor.
Even though my suggestions would increase the cost of the tractor maybe 10 % tops., these suggestions would make the Max a really great overall tractor regardless of size.
If the following improvements were made, I壇 be trading in to get these features.
Cup holders, yeah cup holders!
A soft Cab Option with Hard FOP roof, Side panels easily removable, at a reasonable adder for those who cant swing the $$ for a hard cab.
LED Light bar rack On ROPS.
Accessory outlets, and labeled wiring harness extra tie in points.
Tether the fuel cap. Better filter in fuel inlet neck. Move fill to an easier to reach spot, like offset it some.
A real suspension seat on the base model would be appreciated. SThe seat leaves a lot to be desired.
The Loader seriously begs for a 4 Link QA system at the bucket.
The loader curl strength is good for its size, but seems not a strong as the spec would indicate. Larger curl cylinders would help in the toughest going. A little more iron in the loader and bucket would make me happy. (Search for my post with Photos of reinforced bucket)
25x8.5-14 or 25x8.5-15 front tires in place of 23x8.5-12, for better floatation & traction.
A bit more hydraulic pump capacity.
An easy way to remove the lower hitch drawbar links.
A 3 Speed HST or variable transmission for the (Automatic Models)
Make all common service components really easy to access. (Like checking oil.) Quick release engine side panels, while your at it.
A really good paint system with well bonded prime coat/ extra tough durable finish.
If anyone is interested, the Mahindra Max 28 Manual can be downloaded direct from:
http://www.mahindradispro.com/manuelOperateur/Mahindra/Max28/MAX 28 XL_OM_en.pdf
http://www.mahindradispro.com/manuelOperateur/Mahindra/chargeur/ML205/ML205_OM_2011.pdf
http://www.mahindradispro.com/manuelOperateur/Mahindra/Backhoe/BackhoeMB63_Max28_en_2011.pdf
Finally, some questions for the long time max owners:
1.) Could someone tell me/ Post photos of where you check the engine oil level?
2.) Also what is the easy way to remove the engine side panels?
3.) Filter interchange info.