Resale of M5040 vs L5240

SCDolphin · Mar 4, 2007

Looking for a tractor to take care of 40 acres. I am torn between the two tractors. Which would be easier to sell if I had to unload them. Before I have buyers remorse, I am wide open to any advise before I write the check.

Thanks

Z-Michigan · Mar 4, 2007

At the moment I think an L40 would have more resale, but in 6-12 months as they are more available that will probably go away. Many years down the road the M40 should have better resale as it is a heavier duty tractor capable of harder work. Would be interested in what you're planning to use the tractor for and how many of those acres will be worked - you might get some interesting advice.

artf · Mar 18, 2007

L5240 Hydro will be easier to resell than M5040.

art · Mar 18, 2007

The M-series is a farm tractor with no ability to take a mid mower or anything close from the factory. The L-series is a compact tractor with a lot of attachments available. The M-series is a heavier chassis built for heavier work load day in and out.

Glowplug · Mar 18, 2007

Kinda depends on your market. I assume you're not in downtown Columbia. My dealer is in rural farmland and most of his customers are farmers. He has very few GrandL40s even on the lot. Most of the tractors are Mxx40s. So if you're going to be selling to farmers the M5040 would be the way to go. If you're going to sell to small acreage customers in need of a general purpose compact utility tractor then consider the L5240. What are going to be your main applications? Loader work? Mowing? Plowing? Also, consider the transmissions. The M5040 has the standard manual synchro transmission. The L5240 has the options of glide shift transmission and hydrostatic. All have their advantages/disadvantages.

But I wouldn't really buy a tractor based mostly on the resale value. Buy what you need, can use, and feel comfortable with. Otherwise, you may be looking at the resale sooner than you thought. However, if you got the right tractor for you, you may not be looking to sell for several decades.

Glowplug · Mar 18, 2007

artf said:
L5240 Hydro will be easier to resell than M5040.

Not around here. No way. If you're selling to people who do long stretches of plowing, mowing, hay baling, etc. such as farmers you're never going to be able to unload it. So it's not an easy answer. You can't just make a blanket statement like one will definately be easier to resell than the other.

Redbug · Mar 18, 2007

Hey Hugh,

That's a hard decision...I think I would probably go with the L5240HST. I think more versatility. Definately get the Bobcat style Quick Attach, and possibly a couple rear remotes for future implements. I have not looked...but can you put a backhoe on the M series? Not to say you want a backhoe now...but you never know in the future... Like what Chuck said...I think resale value is not a factor in life's real pleasures...get what YOU really want because you will be happy with your baby and not want to put her up for adoption any time soon.

Also, about writing the check...I am not the kind of person who buys on credit either, but it may be a good way to go in this instance, looking back in hindsight. Really good credit rates thru Kubota, (or whoever...blue, green, red) and...something you don't think about when adding it all up...the insurance for the tractor is probably half the price thru Kubota while paying on credit verses an outside insurance carrier for a paid up tractor. I know and learned...I wrote the check!