Branson/TYM 5520c vs TYM T574C

[DR394]

Looking at a choice of these two tractors, with the price difference of the Branson/TYM ("Branson") being $1,500 more than the TYM-- and Branson not having standard rear remotes which will need to add which increases price difference. Seeking opinions on which one of the two would be the better built and better buy.

The intended use is mostly in a 12 acre vineyard with 10 foot rows and a 12 degree slope (rows go horizonal across slope). Implements will be a 60" flail mower, PTO driven air blast sprayer, hydraulic in row weeder, occasional towing of a no till cover crop seeder. Other tasks will be harvest work of towing and lifting harvest bins weight about 1200 pounds when fully loaded, maintaining gravel roads to house and vineyard, and occasional post hole digging.

The specs of the tractors are close--both are 55 hp with a shuttle transmission , with TYM having an 8 x 8 and the Branson 16 x 16 synchronized shuttle and each has hydrostatic steering. The PTO are both independent, with TYM PTO power at 44.1 and Branson at 47.5. Engine in the TYM is a Kukje A2300T3, and Branson uses a TYM A 2300T11 (seems like a Kukje made engine as well). Loaders are nearly identical in lift capacity, both use wet disc brakes, and weight in total is TYM at 4233 lbs and Branson at 4339 lbs.

So, very similar tractors with same ownership company-- except TYM has two rear remotes standard (which I will need) alongside the external lift control and Branson doesn't, but Branson has synchronized shuttle and more gears than the TYM.

 

[ptsg]

I go over some of the differences and why I much prefer the Branson built tractor rather than the TYM on this post: T494 vs 4820

You can read the entire thread too. I will also add the Branson controls feel much beefier and less flimsy. The front axle is also a better and long lasting design. There have been some issues with the TYM front axles.

In your case, going with the Shuttle transmission, get the Branson. It's a not brainer. That 16x16 transmission is very nice and you can't never have too many gears. With 4 ranges, I believe the A (lowest) range is more like creeper gears which can be very nice on hills.

Branson is very stable on hills too. I worked my F36Rn (equivalent to the 3515R but Narrow version) on hills up to 25-ish degrees and it felt very stable even for a narrow tractor.

Go with the R1 tires so you can actual pull some nice loads and not just spin tires like with the R4.

For the 3 pt external control, it's not that hard to fabricate something if you're into that sort of work. I added that feature to mine, it wasn't very hard at all.

 

[K5lwq]

I thought the 5520C came with 2 rear remotes standard? Maybe that was just the way my dealer ordered for his inventory.

Agree with ptsg, 4 range gears is enough reason to go with the 5520.

 

[steve tym]

I've owned both a Branson and currently a TYM, although neither of the models you mention. Pros and cons to both, don't know that I have a preffrance. The Branson has a better seat and better doors. The Kukje engine in the Branson was great. I love the Duetz in the TYM. I would be concerned that the Branson name will go away in time now that TYM owns Kukje.

 

[CloverKnollFarms]

The Branson is heavier with a smaller footprint. So you don't compromise on weight, and gain a little maneuverability. Both have the Kukje engine, now called the TYM diesel. I love my Branson, but you'd enjoy both I'm sure

 

[TractorTYMe]

The Branson/TYM Legacy models are built a bit heavier. Note the 8 lug rear wheels instead of six? Lift capacities are similar, I would say the only drawback I found is the 3rd function vs the two is, TYM has a true 3rd factory function (2 button preinstalled) vs Legacy models are designed with a diverter 1 button setup. But besides these little things I'd be tickled pink to own a 4820 or 5520 cab.

 

[K5lwq]

I think a lot varies depending on dealer. Like my Branson has true 3rd function 2 button. It was ordered with that. Most of this stuff is add on at the assembly plant or dealer.

 

[North to Alaska]

The 16x16 transmission is definitely worth the extra $$. Tell the dealer to throw in filled tires as part of the deal.

 

[tacticalturnip]

I've always been curious about that 4 range transaxle; I've never used one but I've heard nothing but good things.

I'm partial to the legacy Branson, myself.

 

[CloverKnollFarms]

I have the hydro, but still, LOVE the 4 range hydro and H pattern shift