I recently purchased a new 2016 RX6620 Powershuttle to replace a 2016 John Deere 3033R PowerReverser that just wasn't enough tractor. I thought I'd provide some of my initial thoughts for those that might be considering this model. I have spent many hours on my FIL's 2013 John Deere 5065E and will use that for some of the comparisons.
The Good
Some of what immediately struck me about the RX was the quietness of the engine and the smoothness of the transmission. Both are much more refined than the Tier3 5065E. The base 5065E is a bare bones utility tractor that stickered well above the RX, but had far less features. The self-leveling loader on the RX is amazing to operate vs the JD 553 loader. The speed could be improved, but I don't mind the more precise feel of the slower movements. The RX also has electronic 4WD and an electronically adjustable clutch. The PTO knob is convenient, but I must maintain at least 1500-1600 to keep the tractor from stalling with my MX8 rotary cutter. The ePTO and auto PTO are also nice features that the 5065E doesn't have. Don't forget to disengage the auto PTO if you don't need it, though, or you'll struggle to figure our why your implements aren't spinning (ask me how I know). A big plus is the 12F/12R transmission with a very tall 12th gear. We convoyed the 5065E and RX to a property this weekend and the RX left the JD in the dust. Attaching implements to the 3pt is also a plus for the RX. The combination of telescoping links and the rear rockshaft control lever makes hookup a breeze. Visibility is also considerably better on the RX. The JD has a long flat hood that is relatively level with a low seat position. The RX seems to position the driver higher while increasing the forward slope of the hood for greater visibility.
The Bad
It didn't take me long to notice how narrow the seat on the RX is. My JD 3033R rides like a Cadillac with a wide suspension seat and seat belt that is very comfortable. You can tell the RX seat is a budget suspension seat. It is narrow for my frame at 6'1" 195. While mowing a side hill, the seat belt constantly dug into my hip to the point I removed the belt and shoved the belt attachment to the rear. I can't stand being on the tractor without a seat belt, so this was really uncomfortable for me to have to unbelt. The dash lights also need some attention. While roading the tractor with the hazards flashing on an overcast day, I couldn't see the indicator lights at all. I repeatedly left the turn signal on because I couldn't see the blinking. Some of the other indicators were more visible. On a tractor this large, some sort of on-board storage would be nice. JD could fit a covered compartment on the fender of the 3033R, so I know there's enough space. I moved some piles of brush with the bucket and noticed the front hydraulic lines were susceptible to becoming entangled with branches. This could probably be fixed by use of a grapple, but that's down the road. The transmission could also use some adjustment. When mowing, if you were moving even slightly downhill and shifted to the opposite direction, the tractor would continue for as much as 10 to 15 feet before reversing direction. I started using the brakes when changing directions as well, but I think a different transmission setting would be beneficial.
As I put in more seat time, I'll continue to add my thoughts on the RX vs 5065E. I've ordered the canopy, additional SCV with float and the 7pin harness, so I should have comments on those items in the near future. Feel free to throw in your thoughts as well if you've had additional experience with the RX.
