Tractor Sizing Tractor buying advice for 47 acres at 8600 ft

[jeff9366]

HST/PLUS transmission.

LINK: Kubota HST PLUS transmission - Google Search

HST/PLUS is the key feature on Grand Ls and one of the features that justifies Grand L prices.
What HST/PLUS does, how it works, its contribution to efficient tractor operation are all worth research.
Only Kubota has it.

 

[rScotty]

HST/PLUS transmission.

HST/PLUS is the key feature on Grand Ls and one of the features that justifies Grand L prices.
What HST/PLUS does, how it works, its contribution to efficient tractor operation are all worth research.
Only Kubota has it.

Jeff, I agree completely on HST +. It just might be the best tranny out there in this size tractor.

BTW, on TractorData.com I see that the L5460 is listed as Tier IV and has only an EGR valve. Is that possible? Does that mean that this L5460 has one of the favored older style EGR style engines without the additional newer emission controls? Or does TractorData.com have incomplete data? Is the L5460 a turbo?

I also see that model was available with a factory cab and optional 3pt draft control but only Category I I find it odd that draft control should be optional and that any 3pt that can pick up 3000 lbs wouldn't be Catergory II.
Also listed as optional is a mid PTO. I've never used one. What in the world is a mid-PTO used for on a tractor this big?
Nothing listed about forward remotes or SSQA, but I'd want both.
Jeff - or anyone - how do you feel about all those options?
rScotty

 

[MtnViewRanch]

All of these tractors will get the job done, but unless a person is retired, don't you really want to get the jobs done as quickly as possible? The utility sized machines will simply get the work done faster and easier than the compacts, even the 60hp compacts.

If you have areas that require a smaller machine, then consider 2 separate tractors. I know that I started with a 75hp utility and 2 years later added a 32hp compact to do the smaller tight areas that needed to be worked on. No one machine is going to be good at everything, just isn't going to happen.

If it were me, the 2 biggest things I would be looking at is the engine has to have a turbo, don't care what anyone says about that and a full sized utility tractor to start with. Adjust from there.

Yes this all costs $$$$, if you don't have it or don't want to do these things in stages, then probably shouldn't have bought the property.

Just my :2cents:

 

[dannoGT]

At 8600 ft I would need a place in the cab to mount my oxygen tank!

 

[ericm979]

Isn't a tall narrow orchard tractor going to be tippy on slopes?

 

[Kyle_in_Tex]

You have received some really great advice.

I worry, that stump removal (clear felled area) is something that you will kill/damage an expensive tractor. I would recommend hiring large equipment to do this task, and then re-evaluate your list without that task. A large bulldozer that can "pop" up the stumps, or an excavator/backhoe that can dig them up. A seasoned operator can tell you which is better in your area.

Turbo at altitude is good.

Cab is great.

Being on slopes is not fun. There is a reason you take a mule and not a horse for these types of jobs.

I have been through Ft. Collins, and have drank beer at the WyColo bar by the snowmobile trails. Many years ago. Beautiful country.

 

[Kyle_in_Tex]

I have a compact 4310 Deere and a Utility 5420 both MFWD.

I would want the Utility sized tractor, being heavier duty for the tasks. The larger front R1's make a huge difference between the bigger and smaller machine.

 

[flingwing1969]

Having lived on very steep terrain for a long time and dealing with a tractor so I'll tell you, if I had the money I would buy a track steer for my work not a CUT. The problem with hills is the teeter totter front axle on a wheel tractor - not a problem if both rear wheels are on the ground, an advantage in fact, but get a rear wheel off the ground on the uphill side and you better get that boom down QUICK. Happened to me more than once.

 

[kneedeep]

Buy BIGGER!!:thumbsup:

 

[Jchonline]

Along the bigger and smaller tractor thoughts.....If I were to get a smaller (subcompact) to do smaller chores with (or those that require more maneuverability/smaller footprint) anyone know of a subcompact with a turbocharged engine?

I looked at Kubota, JD, and Kioti and did not see any. I might have missed them.