Standard Shift tractors and loader work

[npaden]

Okay, I'm still trying to narrow down the tractor that I need and have about decided on the XM5000 with the LA-852 loader.

I will be using this as my only tractor on my 42 acres that would need to be used for grading my road, mowing pasture and brush, plus some occasional loader work. The primary useage will be on the road and mowing, not on loader work.

So I'm looking for opinions from people who have standard shift tractors that use them for loader work. It seems that it wouldn't be too difficult to operate picking up a load of dirt or gravel in a relatively low gear and pushing the clutch in once you have a good scoop and getting the loader situated and then putting it in the gear you want and moving it and dumping it. I do see how a HST transmission would be a big plus here, but it comes down to is it worth it to step all the way up to a 5030 at $26,700 over the MX5000 at $22,000. (Considering I've already just talked myself into the MX5000 over the L4400 at $19,500) I realize there are a few other nice features on the 5030 but the transmission is the only one that I see as a big plus from a practical standpoint.

I would just appreciate input from users of standard shift tractors who use them for occasional loader work. Does it work fine or do you really regret not getting a HST or GST transmission?

Thanks, Nathan

 

[Toolguy]

Farmers used loader tractors with standard shift transmissions for years before shuttles and HST were developed. HST is a luxury item like power windows and locks on a car. If you don't think you need it, you don't. Don't get me wrong, it is a nice feature and saves time and effort and I have it on my tractor, but do you need it? No.

On the other hand, if you plan on owning the tractor for a long time, over the years you may come to wish that you had it. It is very nice for mowing and the above mentioned loader work. If you buy it now you probably won't regret it after you have used it. I know it can be a tough decision. When I bought my B3030 I had thoughts of a cheaper model in my head but decided to spend the extra money since it should last me the rest of my life and I will get a lot of use out of it. You only live once so I think it is better to get the best you can afford on the big purchases and if you need to cut corners somwhere, do it on the small items that don't matter as much. JMO. Good luck.

 

[Bird]

I think Toolguy's answer says it quite well.

 

[npaden]

Okay, one more wrench to throw in the mix.

Which is more useful for the applications I mentioned - a GST or HST transmission?

 

[npaden]

Another option to keep in the general price range I've been looking at would be to drop down to a 4630 for less hp but get the GST or HST transmission on it for an out the door price in the $24,700 range.

There are just too many options!

 

[rdln]

I have a GST on my JD and dont have a problem with loader work though I went from an old GST lawn tractor to new HST and wouldn't go back.

 

[kingoflawns]

Hst is a luxury, last kubota was a 2 range, new kubota is a 3 range, imho it's the way to go. B3030 HSDC 403 fel, very pleased with this setup!

 

[RobJ]

it's all what you can afford. if you can then no real need to ask. if you can't then the money could buy something else that'll be used more. FEL with a gear tractor is just a bit slower.

Good luck, rob

 

[ksmmoto]

I grew up operating Allis-Chalmers D-14 and D-15's with standard shift. They worked fine for their time, but if time is important HST will be the way to go.

I couldn't believe how fast and easy loader work was when I rented a B2910. Now I own a L3430 HST and love it. Sure the HST cost more, but if you keep your tractor forever it will pay off. Even if you sell your tractor an HST will sell faster and at a higher price.

ksmmoto

 

[Av8r3400]

</font><font color="blue" class="small">( ... The primary usage will be on the road and mowing, not on loader work. ...)</font>

PTO HP and drawbar pull are your main concerns with these, right? Does not the gear type tranny excel here? These were my primary uses, too, so I bought the L3400 with the shuttle.

I like the hydros, definitely. They are very convenient and work well with little if any problems compared to the gear. I don't use the tractor for hire, just for my own private use, so speed is not necessarily a problem for me and I don't mind a clutch.

But, overall the two things held me back from going to the HST:

1. $$ (I'm cheap)
2. I think the wife is less likely to want to drive the manual tranny. /forums/images/graemlins/tongue.gif