Help me pick a tractor (25-45 HP)

[tradosaurus]

Go big or go home.

Whatever size tractor you think you need go one size bigger. Ask me how I know.

Went from a L3301 to a MX5400.

 

[Torvy]

I've just got the 20 acre piece, complete with woods. That's a lot for a weakling like the 3901. I've got a 55HP tractor that matches up better with the M or MX.

You didn't mention budget. The JD and Kubota options are going to be 50-75% more expensive than equivalent options from LS, Kioti or TYM. Kioti makes the Bobcat tractors. LS makes the CNH smaller tractors. TYM makes RK and made models for Mahindra and others. TYM has most models that don't force the tractor into 'limp' mode if there is a regen/emissions issue.

If you're only taking it up north a few times a year, consider renting/borrowing a bigger trailer and/or truck. With that much work to do, a small tractor is going to drive you crazy, or get someone hurt.

 

[jyoutz]

I've just got the 20 acre piece, complete with woods. That's a lot for a weakling like the 3901. I've got a 55HP tractor that matches up better with the M or MX.

You didn't mention budget. The JD and Kubota options are going to be 50-75% more expensive than equivalent options from LS, Kioti or TYM. Kioti makes the Bobcat tractors. LS makes the CNH smaller tractors. TYM makes RK and made models for Mahindra and others. TYM has most models that don't force the tractor into 'limp' mode if there is a regen/emissions issue.

If you're only taking it up north a few times a year, consider renting/borrowing a bigger trailer and/or truck. With that much work to do, a small tractor is going to drive you crazy, or get someone hurt.

Agree, but JD and Kubota are more like 20% most expensive, not 50-75% more.

 

[scootr]

The MX5200 has been a good choice for me. I would recommend it to a friend.

 

[Get-in-muh-bellymower]

My impression is the work you are describing is better suited for a larger tractor: Kubota MX or M or equivalent other colors. I know you are weight limited with your current tow vehicle and trailer, but it still seems to me that a heavier machine would be safer and suit you better. Something in the 50+ hp range.

I've just got the 20 acre piece, complete with woods. That's a lot for a weakling like the 3901. I've got a 55HP tractor that matches up better with the M or MX.

You didn't mention budget. The JD and Kubota options are going to be 50-75% more expensive than equivalent options from LS, Kioti or TYM. Kioti makes the Bobcat tractors. LS makes the CNH smaller tractors. TYM makes RK and made models for Mahindra and others. TYM has most models that don't force the tractor into 'limp' mode if there is a regen/emissions issue.

If you're only taking it up north a few times a year, consider renting/borrowing a bigger trailer and/or truck. With that much work to do, a small tractor is going to drive you crazy, or get someone hurt.

Are those larger tractors really maneuverable in woods? I love the improved specs, but when I see them at the dealership my first thought is always "where would I even turn that around?"

For the cost difference on some of them I feel I could rent/hire a lot of the heavier work done. I may have to look more into TYM but I don't think there's a long established dealership anywhere near me.

 

[Tractorable]

Kubota Grand L3560
Kubota L4701/4802
Massey Ferguson 1835/1840M
Kioti DK4220/4720/5320

These are all ~3500lb machines with the sweet spot wheelbase of about 70 inches. Gives you the weight to get work done combined with the maneuverability to get around in your woods. Will run 6ft implements.

3500lb bare tractor + 1000lb loader = 4500lbs with 900lbs left over for an implement puts you at your 5400lb weight limit. Instead of loading your tires use removable wheel weights to adjust the weight as needed.

All will fit in a standard 7ft garage with the ROPS folded down except for the L3560. Kioti DK offers one rear remote standard.

 

[Torvy]

Are those larger tractors really maneuverable in woods? I love the improved specs, but when I see them at the dealership my first thought is always "where would I even turn that around?"

For the cost difference on some of them I feel I could rent/hire a lot of the heavier work done. I may have to look more into TYM but I don't think there's a long established dealership anywhere near me.

I have a T574H. The 5520 is a bit shorter.
@CloverKnollFarms can tell you more on that model. All I have is woods...loblolly pines, mostly. With tree work, you're going to want the weight. I'd find another solution for the 2 locations. How far between them?

I use a flail, rather than a Rotary Cutter. Much smaller turning radius.

 

[Torvy]

Agree, but JD and Kubota are more like 20% most expensive, not 50-75% more.

You need to compare more recently and closely, my friend.

 

[scootr]

Are those larger tractors really maneuverable in woods? I love the improved specs, but when I see them at the dealership my first thought is always "where would I even turn that around?"

For the cost difference on some of them I feel I could rent/hire a lot of the heavier work done. I may have to look more into TYM but I don't think there's a long established dealership anywhere near me.

My MX5200 is very maneuverable, that's one thing I really like about it. It almost turns around in its own length. Attachments will increase the needed area.

 

[Get-in-muh-bellymower]

I have a T574H. The 5520 is a bit shorter.
@CloverKnollFarms can tell you more on that model. All I have is woods...loblolly pines, mostly. With tree work, you're going to want the weight. I'd find another solution for the 2 locations. How far between them?

I use a flail, rather than a Rotary Cutter. Much smaller turning radius.

500 miles.