5085m?

[marcin]

I think I may have decided to change direction a little. I think I may buy a used shredder for my skid steer to use on fence line mowing and invest instead in a cab tractor.

It seems like a 6 series M tractor would be a significantly better value than the 5 series. Someone suggested a 6120m. I could use it on a baler until a get a 6140 in a few years.

What newer 6 series tractor would you recommend. Also, what options are a must: 3rd hydraulics, loader type, tire size, cab options, transmission, etc. I have newer looked at a tractor of this quality and so want to make sure I try and choose the right model with the right equipment. As mentioned, this would be used on a round baler, but also common ranch tasks: moving and feeding hay, loading bales, sprayer, etc.

Thanks again.

 

[ovrszd]

Anxious to follow this. I'd like to learn more about that tractor from owners rather than brochures.

 

[Kyle_in_Tex]

6120 and 6140 are same tractor except horsepower.
6120 will run a round baler fine if baler is in good shape.
Don't try to make full 6' diameter bales, make them 5.5'

You should decide now if you want the extra HP rather than later. (Cheaper than trading in)

 

[Kyle_in_Tex]

For mowing and baling you'll want to go with the wide tires instead of the narrow tires for row cropping.

Most of them come with this real nice quick disconnect system for the front end loader, they're kind of pricey but well worth it in the long run.

You might want the Buddy seat if you want to be able to show your kids or grandkids how to run the tractor.

If you want hydraulics for a grapple you will need to add that to the list.

There are other dozens and dozens of possible options. You can do a build it now online and then go to your dealer and start talking over the price for a good discount.

 

[Zebrafive]

Minimum transmission I would want is PowrReverser coupled to PowerQuad. You can get it with 4 ranges for 18mph road speed or 6 ranges for 25mph road speed.
I would consider the older 6430 if 115HP is enough

 

[Kyle_in_Tex]

115 hp should be enough.

Custom balers like the road gear. IIRC they now offer 30 mph too, but maybe only on the R version. Double check for yourself.

 

[ovrszd]

The Europeans have used high speed road gear for a long time. They travel on the roads a lot with their tractors.

 

[Bavarian]

I actually own 6430 premium with a H340 loader and grapple. I am way over powered for my tasks. It could be done easily with a 5e series. But when I was in the market, I went up the scale to a 5085m. My reasons for the M was the integrated subframe for loader work. The 4 cylinder wet sleeve engine was the reason to go to 85hp. The dealer priced it back then with $91000 CAN.
Then we, me and my wife, ran into that 6430. 3 years old, 1300 hrs on the clock and a brand new loader on it. It was a lease return, the dealer used it in the yard for snow removal that previous winter. For just a bit over $100,000 and way more tractor than the 5M. The lease contract made it affordable, to be bought out next year.
My wife was the deciding factor for it. Since I'm a truck driver, I had to provide a unit she would feel save to handle bales. I don't produce my own bales, that's why I had to be prepared for the heaviest ones.
No regrets on it. I looked at some smaller units, but I just can't bite the bullet to step down on comfort. Even with a new purchase now, the payments would be higher than what I pay now. We are through the worst.
Last year I bought some bales about 25 miles from home. Brorrowed a second trailer from a neighbor, hooked them up together and hauled 34 bales @1300 lbs each all at once. Yes, I know, I exceeded the maximum length but I wasn't bothered at all.
The tractor puts out 95 hp at the pto and should be enough to handle any baler.

I hope this helps.