Cub Cadet 5234 or 6234

[RBP]

I am considering purchasing a CC 5234D or an CC 6284D for farm use. The tractor will be equipped with a FEL, 60" MMM, snowblower, soft cab and cruise control. I have a little over 30 acres of rolling farm land but most of it is used as pasture for cattle. The tractor will be used for snow removal on a 600 foot gravel driveway, mowing approximately 2 acres with a MMM and occasional bush hogging. I live in Minnesota where almost all farm equipment is green, so I would really appreciate any feedback concerning either of these tractors.

 

[westy]

Either tractor will do what you want. I have the 5234D with bar tires, I cut about 3 acres with the 60" MMM and I clear a 500' driveway of up to 9" of snow with a 6' rear blade. The bar tires do not chew up my grass and provide great traction in the snow. I also use a 4' box blade which would probably work well on your gravel drive to smooth it out from time to time. I have a Woods PHD and 40" Woods tiller and I have more than enough power to operate these implements. I also have a 5" Woods landscape rake that I use a lot.

As far as the larger 6000 series, I have tested on out at the dealer and it's a very nice tractor. The same 60" MMM is available and it has a Caterpillar diesel. The Diahatsu diesel on the 5234D actually runs smoother. Not to say anything bad about the Cat diesel, it does feel very strong. You don't have to switch into 4wd on the 6000 series, it automatically senses where you need traction and those wheels are locked in when needed (PosiTrak). I believe there is a significant $$$ diff between the 5234D and the 6284.

I have had some problems with my 5234D but my dealer has taken excellent care of me. I am even considering buying another 5000 series with a FEL and keep the one I have now just to mow. I would definately buy again. Good Luck.

 

[RBP]

Thank you for your reply. What year model is your 5234? What problems do you think I might experience with the 2005 models and have you heard of any problems with the 6284? I was told that Cub's new lineup will be introduced this week at a show in Nashville, TN. I am going to wait until then before I make a final purchasing decision. For the features and price, the 6284 really seems like a great value. After much research, I really have not found any other tractor comparable at the same price point. My only hesitation is that I have been unable to receive any feedback concerning this tractor from a current owner. After looking at all the majors brands in my area, I really don't understand why the Cub Cadet line is not more popular. I believe it is mostly due to brand loyalty, not reality.

 

[westy]

My 5234D is a 2004 model. I had a transmission problem that effected only the 2004 5000 series. I have not heard of any problems with the 6284.

Regarding popularity, I believe that Cub just doesn't do a very good job marketing their sub-compact and compact tractors. They make a good tractor but don't do a good job getting the word out.