John Deere 5205 MFWD Question

TXCYCLE · Aug 21, 2011

I have found a 2002 JD 5205 MFWD with a 521 loader, 800 hours, clean, one owner. It comes with a JD canopy & MX6 cutter. I have around 60 acres of coastal to mow (even terrain, no rocks) a 7 acre deer plot to tandem & around 60 acres (scattered) of prickley pear to scoop up with the loader. (I've used a rock bucket in the past, works pretty good with the pear). Here's my question, there are some post on this JD model on TBN in the past, but they are all pretty old post. Not a lot on the net on this tractor either. Anybody know much about the 5205? I like the machine and it seems priced right. I also think it's pretty close to meeting my needs. Appreciate any reviews or comments anyone has. Thanks.

AKfish · Aug 21, 2011

I don't recall hearing about any real serious problems with either the 5105 or the 5205. They're a real solid, no-frills tractor!

Some mention about the 8x2 transmission and using the tractor for baling hay - could use another gear or two - for better match up to hay conditions and baler capacity.

AKfish

Bigfoot62 · Aug 21, 2011

There's only one review posted on that model:
John Deere 5205 Review by HIDDENHFARM - TractorByNet.com
However, there are five posted for the 5105. (same tractor, less HP):
John Deere 5105 Reviews - TractorByNet.com

Like AKfish said, it's a basic, no-frills tractor. If that will fit the need, fine. Just realize, there is no shuttle shift and it's a partially synchronized transmission. That means you have to stop to change directions, a real disadvantage if you're using the loader.

If you are cutting 60 acres of coastal bermuda for hay, even an 8' disc mower (like my Kuhn GMD600) will be a lot for that tractor to handle.

JMHO

deere5105 · Aug 21, 2011

I wouldn't be scared of the 5205 if it fits your needs. I had a 5105 for a little while and liked it. I wanted to move up to a 4WD unit and found a good deal on the 5303. My 5105 had the 8F/4R and the A Range and Reverse were synchronized if I recall correctly. You could pick a gear 1-4 and switch between A Range and Reverse without having to come to a complete stop. This is the same setup on my 5303 except it has a 9F/3R transmission. I actually liked the 5105 transmission set up better than the 5303. With the 5303 the the 2nd gear and Reverse are synchronized and you can pick A,B or C range. Problem is the B range is the one I stay in the most and Reverse speed is higher than the forward speed in 2nd gear. I wish the Reverse speed was a little slower.

TXCYCLE · Aug 21, 2011

AKfish-Bigfoot62-deere5105:
Thanks for the input, I appreciate it. On the coastal, I'm not cutting it for baling, just shredding. I went back & looked at the tractor today, I really like it. I just have to go & try it when I can find somebody around. I'm using a 26hp tractor now with a 5' shredder, (no loader & hating life)

The 5205 will be a big step up for me. Thanks again.