m5640, m5040, mx5100, l4400, suggestions??

Bob_Young · Mar 24, 2009

One thing to keep in mine, uncle, is that the final drives on the MX and the L4400 are spur gears. On the M5040 and above, it's a planetary drive. Dunno about the M5640SU or whatever that new one is called.

Spur gear finals are less costly to make, but they are also noisy. My MX and L both set up a bit of a howl when traveling at road speeds. It doesn't bother me, but if you expect a fair amount of road travel, it may wear on you after awhile.

The planetary drives are very strong and quiet, but much more expensive to make. That explains at least part of the cost jump from the MX to the M5040.
Bob

pitt_md · Mar 26, 2009

I have the MX5000 and do a lot of heavy duty tasks with it. Never had a problem doing any of it. Something to consider if choosing between the
MX5100 and M5040 is that the M5040 comes standard with rear hydraulics which I had to add on to my tractor for around $800. I don't know what the price difference is but more weight means more traction. Knowing now what I use my tractor for I would have opted for the M series with ag tires. Both are about the top of the line in their class.

GuideUncle · Mar 27, 2009

I tend to agree with most of you pushing for the large machines... "You only hear someone complain about having too little machine, not too much," is something that I appreciate. However, The cost of a new M series is probably more than I can justify for a hobby tractor. Also, I know several people with ~35 hp L series tractors that manage just fine in their woods. I think that if I can get this m5700 (auction is soon!) or a good deal on a used M series before fall I'll do that. If that doesn't happen then I'll probably spring for a new mx5100 in the fall or winter. The 5100 does have the smaller 3ph, but I like the maneuverability of a smaller machine in the woods. I think the partially sync. tranny will be OK for me and the road noise of the spur gears won't be an issue.