Kubota vs Massy

[Wobblin-Goblin]

I had a 2007 Massey Ferguson 1540 Powershuttle with the 1525 loader (almost the same tractor as the 1440 you describe, just one model generation newer). It was outstanding and the best tractor I've ever owned or operated. The 3cyl turbo engine started instantly no matter how cold the temps were, had very good fuel economy, and was very quiet. I sold it when the economy crapped the bed in '09, but it really hurt to see it go. I eventually replaced it with a '13 MF 1643 Hydro, but while a few things were improved (headlights, seat, ROPS), overall the 1540 was the better tractor.

 

[seville009]

In 2001, I purchased a new Kubota B7500 hst with a front snowblower and mid mount mower; think it was 25 hp

around 2004, I bought more land and needed something bigger in a tractor. Kubota dealer went out of business, so bought a geared MF1540 from a local MF dealer. Tractor was fine, but hated the gears. Traded it in for the same model, but hst. Still have it today.

so.....my opinion/experience (limited) with both brands is that I have had no issues with either brand. You should be fine with either one. Local dealer support would be the only real factor to consider for supplies and any possible issues.

 

[RjCorazza]

I do not know in what year the SSQA standard (Skid Steer Quick Attach) was adopted by the tractor industry. The Kubota you are contemplating may or may not have SSQA, permitting one minute change from an FEL bucket to FEL pallet forks.

Inquire of the dealer about interchangeability between bucket and pallet forks generally. With clamp on (as opposed to SSQA) pallet forks, sooner or later a timber will roll over the bucket and over the tractor hood...... You are welcome to visit and see my hood dents. The incident did not kill me, but it could have.

I ended up getting ssqa pallet forks when I replaced my non ssqa L3410 6 years ago. I considered clamp on forks for the old tractor, but never thought about material rolling up the bucket and onto the tractor or God forbid the operator.
I can definitely see that happening... Almost like a ready made ramp!

 

[Holmen WI]

Thank you! Very useful. Question: I move big logs to a portable mill. I believe the lifting capacity is limited. The kabota is almost double. What was your experience with the strength of the loader, if I may ask?

 

[Holmen WI]

In 2001, I purchased a new Kubota B7500 hst with a front snowblower and mid mount mower; think it was 25 hp

around 2004, I bought more land and needed something bigger in a tractor. Kubota dealer went out of business, so bought a geared MF1540 from a local MF dealer. Tractor was fine, but hated the gears. Traded it in for the same model, but hst. Still have it today.

so.....my opinion/experience (limited) with both brands is that I have had no issues with either brand. You should be fine with either one. Local dealer support would be the only real factor to consider for supplies and any possible issues.

Thank you, very useful.

 

[Holmen WI]

I ended up getting ssqa pallet forks when I replaced my non ssqa L3410 6 years ago. I considered clamp on forks for the old tractor, but never thought about material rolling up the bucket and onto the tractor or God forbid the operator.
I can definitely see that happening... Almost like a ready made ramp!

Really important and valuable information!

 

[Wobblin-Goblin]

Thank you! Very useful. Question: I move big logs to a portable mill. I believe the lifting capacity is limited. The kabota is almost double. What was your experience with the strength of the loader, if I may ask?

Not sure if you are asking this question of me, but the 1525 loader on the Massey was decent. Yes, I wish it had more capability, but there is one absolute truth about tractors and implements such as loaders: no matter how much they can do, you always wish they could do more. I recently traded in my 1643 with the DL120 loader (about the same thing as the 1525) for a 70hp MF 4707 and the most capable optional loader available. Guess what? I still wish it could do more, and it easily lifts double the amount of the 1525/DL120.

I have nothing against orange tractors and in fact looked hard at them when I decided to move up. You'll do fine either way. I just prefer Massey Ferguson and part of the reason is I have a dealer just ten miles away. I still kick myself for having to sell that 1540 and wish I could buy it back.

 

[Holmen WI]

Yes, and thank you again.

 

[airbiscuit]

One is a Kubota, a wider, heavier (3860 lbs) more stable tractor, with a hydrostatic transmission. The other one is your Father's Oldsmobile.

 

[paulfun9]

One is a Kubota, a wider, heavier (3860 lbs) more stable tractor, with a hydrostatic transmission. The other one is your Father's Oldsmobile.

Well my son to this day says he would trade any car he ever owned for any of my Olsmobile’s.
Sometimes things are not what they seem!
By the way my last Oldsmobile at trade in time they gave me a brand new car and 10’000 cash. Let’s see how many folks can say similar with today’s cars 20 to 25 years from now.