How much more do I need? B or L series?

FamilyFarm · Jul 12, 2006

I would not go over 6 ft wide cutter with the L3400. I know it sounds nice to have that extra 12" with the 7 ft model, but if you have to go slower for the tractor to effectively run the cutter, you won't gain anything vs the 6 ft. I also doubt you'll find a 7 ft that isn't too heavy for the L3400 - thinking tractor implement rating and safety on this.

5030tinkerer · Jul 12, 2006

I have an L5030 with a Rhino TX115 11' wide finish mower (two 48" decks and a 60"). The tractor handles it fine and is nothing short of impressive to watch in action. I'd go for at least this size tractor for as much land as you are talking about.

Carl Bill · Jul 12, 2006

It looks like I would need more power than an L3400 for that!

This brings me into the M series.

Looking at a leftover M4900.

Any pointers on what to look for in an M series?

Seems that for just mowing and general FEL work, an M series is a lower cost way to go. Looks like they are a no-frills deal over the large Grand L series.

Now a dealer is saying that I could get into a better deal in a MF in this range of tarctor..... More to think about.

My head hurts!

Carl Bill · Jul 12, 2006

I guess this is about to come out of the compact tractor world and go into the general tractor range. I guess I should also look more into used farm tractors?

FamilyFarm · Jul 12, 2006

The newer M 40 series tractors (5040, 6040, 7040, etc.) are pretty close to the Grand L's in the convenience, comfort issues. They have tilt steering, similar seat to Grand L, nice wide, flat platform. No HST is offered, but the hydraulic shuttle shift is very smooth to operate. The QA FEL bucket is standard as is one rear remote and a 7 pin trailer connector. All-in-all, a very nice setup that I wouldn't consider a no-frills tractor. Depending on the dealer, the price of the M5040 is pretty close to the L5030 and only goes up marginally for the 6040 or 7040. The 7040 was my first pick of tractors - I simply didn't need a tractor that large. I didn't need that much power and have too many obstacles, trees, close-in places I need to use a tractor. The HST is also a preference for me, although I was very impressed with the Hydraulic Shuttle.
Terry

Carl Bill · Jul 12, 2006

What about an MX5000 or M4900? They are less fancy than the Mxx40 series and have the power I am thinking of. I could get used to gears. I would like the HST, but the cost of the MX5000 & M4900 ar elooking good for the hp.

Any thoughs on these?

john_bud · Jul 12, 2006

Carl,

Why not look into a used 70-100 hp tractor with loader. Probably can get one for under 10,000 with only a few thousand hours. Then a 10' or 12' bat wing mower. Mowing 30 acres is real work!

jb

Carl Bill · Jul 13, 2006

Spent several hours searching for used 50 to 100 hp tractors. Expensive!

Old John Deere with many hours is gold!

Still working the numbers and trying to find the best compromise....

Time will tell...

Newer or new Massey Fergusion is in the running. I will see soon.

I am still a Kubota fan.

There is nothing made in the USA now. MF, even with the Perkins is made in Turkey and/or Brazil. John Deere is no longer a USA deal either. So no regrets no matter what I do here!

Thank you for the help!

Carl Bill · Jul 13, 2006

This is a eye opener. Even the local tractor dealer told me that the big John Deere's are using off shore engines. As are most tractor manufacturers.

I had thought that just the compacts and sub-compacts were doing that.

I am a Chevy guy and really like to keep big purchases at home. No way to do that here.

I feel much better about the BX1500 now.

I am not happy about the situation, but what can I do?

Which brand is the MOST American?

I am lost...

FamilyFarm · Jul 13, 2006

I have owned so many well made products from Japan, I guess I don't even think much about that anymore. What irks me is the fact most American companies are farming out everything to China now, even if the ownership of the firm is in the USA. WalMart has forced alot of companies to go to China or not do business with them.
Kubota makes most of their implements and some of their tractors in the US. Either way - made in Japan or US - you know they make the entire tractor and control the quality.
Terry