NCL4701
Member
Great advice already. Only two things to add:
I have a L4701. Obviously the L6060 is a significantly larger tractor but the M/MX series v L series isn’t so much about HP as it is a larger frame size which translates to more weight (more pulling power), more 3 point lift capacity, and more loader capacity even in a unit where the L and M/MX HP is similar (there is overlap in HP in the two series). I went with the L due solely to size restrictions in some areas of our property. The Lxx60 series is a top of the line machine but I’d take a hard look at the M/MX series if you go with Kubota.
Second, I would do what research you can on the dealership. Talk to people in the area who have to deal with them if at all possible. Talk to the service manager and have a look at the shop if you can. Unless you are a highly skilled equipment mechanic with a well outfitted shop, you’ll have a relationship with the dealer so long as you own the tractor. An old attorney told me years ago while discussing a breach of contract case, “an ounce of performance is worth a pound of obligation.” That’s true for dealerships, too. A dealership that will work with you and provide good service is very valuable. JD and Kubota are both high quality machines that hold their value over time, which is important if your needs change. Got nothing against Mahindra or Kioti but (just my opinion) they’re not in the same class as Kubota and JD. I looked at JD, Kubota, and New Holland. The decision on brand came down to dealership. Not naming them, but I have no use for the JD dealer in my area and the nearest JD dealer that is decent to work with is about 2 hours from me. I did visit the local JD dealership anyway and they confirmed by their response since I was looking at just one tractor in the 50hp range instead of being a large farmer/contractor they had no interest in speaking to me, but they’d sell me one if I insisted. Just that narrowed it down to Kubota and New Holland. From there, I just preferred the Kubota.
I have a L4701. Obviously the L6060 is a significantly larger tractor but the M/MX series v L series isn’t so much about HP as it is a larger frame size which translates to more weight (more pulling power), more 3 point lift capacity, and more loader capacity even in a unit where the L and M/MX HP is similar (there is overlap in HP in the two series). I went with the L due solely to size restrictions in some areas of our property. The Lxx60 series is a top of the line machine but I’d take a hard look at the M/MX series if you go with Kubota.
Second, I would do what research you can on the dealership. Talk to people in the area who have to deal with them if at all possible. Talk to the service manager and have a look at the shop if you can. Unless you are a highly skilled equipment mechanic with a well outfitted shop, you’ll have a relationship with the dealer so long as you own the tractor. An old attorney told me years ago while discussing a breach of contract case, “an ounce of performance is worth a pound of obligation.” That’s true for dealerships, too. A dealership that will work with you and provide good service is very valuable. JD and Kubota are both high quality machines that hold their value over time, which is important if your needs change. Got nothing against Mahindra or Kioti but (just my opinion) they’re not in the same class as Kubota and JD. I looked at JD, Kubota, and New Holland. The decision on brand came down to dealership. Not naming them, but I have no use for the JD dealer in my area and the nearest JD dealer that is decent to work with is about 2 hours from me. I did visit the local JD dealership anyway and they confirmed by their response since I was looking at just one tractor in the 50hp range instead of being a large farmer/contractor they had no interest in speaking to me, but they’d sell me one if I insisted. Just that narrowed it down to Kubota and New Holland. From there, I just preferred the Kubota.