My folks are looking to buy a tractor and shredder. They live on about 60 acres near Chappel Hill. I'm trying to help them out, but honestly have no idea what I'm doing. They're pretty sure they want something around 50hp. Will be used to move round bales, shred (not the whole place, just spot shredding and around the house). They want a front end loader.

Some questions:
1. What brands are best value? I realize this is likely a personal opinion but they've looked at John Deere, Kubota, and New Holland and will be going into Houston to look at Mahindras.

2. Is it worth it to get 4wd for what they'd be using it for? I'm sure it will help with occasional tree removal, stump pulling, etc.

3. Would you recommend something larger or smaller than 50hp?

4. Do different dealerships advertise different prices or is it all pretty much set? Do they negotiate at all or can you negotiate on equipment?

Thanks a bunch for any advice.

Sounds like you're in the ballpark on a 50 HP. Front end loader is a must in my opinion, I use my FEL all the time. 4 wheel drive isn't necessarily required but if they are feeding hay they may not have a choice but to get out there during a rainy week to feed and they will be glad they had it.

I used to roll my eyes when people said buy the right size tractor from the dealer closest to you. And now I have a Mahindra with a dealer 25 min away and I pass a kubota dealer everyday on the way to work. It wouldn't have mattered because I got such a good deal on the Mahindra, and I love my Mahindra. But if I were buying new I would give a long hard look at the kubota dealer.

4X4, FEL, buy used so you can get one without the emissions crap.
If I was in the market, I would be all over this one.

https://texags.com/forums/34/topics/3310413

Jbob04 said:

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4X4, FEL, buy used so you can get one without the emissions crap.
If I was in the market, I would be all over this one.

https://texags.com/forums/34/topics/3310413

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Agree. I would definitely take a look at it.

I would stay away from the 4 wheel drive unless they plan on needing it. In that area, maybe only needed to feed round bales if it was real muddy but it's kinda hilly there so would depend on their area. The front hubs leaking oil around the seals and bearing/ kingpin issues are a problem as these tractors age. Much less maintenance and problems with a 2 wheel drive tractor. And they handle better with smoother front end loader operation.

SquirrellyDan said:

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Some questions:
1. What brands are best value? I realize this is likely a personal opinion but they've looked at John Deere, Kubota, and New Holland and will be going into Houston to look at Mahindras.

2. Is it worth it to get 4wd for what they'd be using it for? I'm sure it will help with occasional tree removal, stump pulling, etc.

3. Would you recommend something larger or smaller than 50hp?

4. Do different dealerships advertise different prices or is it all pretty much set? Do they negotiate at all or can you negotiate on equipment?

Thanks a bunch for any advice.

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1) Get a brand that has a reasonably close dealership. Pretty much universal advice on any "what tractor brand should I go with?" thread we've had on here over the years. Stuff will break and you don't want to have to haul it 250 miles to the closest dealer, or have them sending a tech out from crazy far. Different brands may perform a little better in certain models, but most these days will run if you take care of them right and stick to the bigger brands.

2) Not absolutely critical from what you've described, but as the saying goes "better to have and not need, than need and not have….."

3) depends on the shredder and just how much harder work like pulling stumps and tree removal they'll be doing. For shredding the rule of thumb is 5hp per foot, and sounds like they don't need a big bat wing 12+ foot one so I'd think 50 would be about right. Certainly wouldn't go any smaller on horsepower, if anything slightly bigger.

4) just like in the automotive world, dealerships will absolutely have different prices and will negotiate differently than each other to some degree. With the supply chain issues post Covid, just like cars, don't be surprised if there isn't a ton of wiggle-room, though.

FEL = 4x4, unless you're getting a BIG tractor, I suppose.

I have a 4x2 tractor with an FEL and it can get interesting in soft soil, or mud, when you're trying to control with just those 3 ribbed front tires. It works but you have to work harder to set up the position of the tractor.

Outside of that, you'll pretty much want the most capacity you can transport with your trailer and tow vehicle and fit where you plant to store it. Bigger tractor = more breakaway force if you're trying to rip up a stump.

Chapel Hill area I would go with kubota from Washington county tractor, there may be a new holland in brenham I think as well, John Deere is in navasota but may be in brenham as well

If they are moving round bales, they will probably get along better with something in the 70 hp range.

Respectfully disagree. My 55HP would move them no problem. I have stacked them in 3 high pyramids with my friend's 42 HP John Deere.

You won't have emissions crap on a new tractors under certain HP. But if you could find a used one with less than 500 hours, that would be worth looking at if it isnt ragged out.

I am a CNH guy, so for what you are looking at, I am going straight to the Farmall A series of machines. I have an older 2004 tractor, with a Shibaura diesel and that damn thing has done everything I asked of it and more. I know I have exceeded its capacity on multiple occasions and it just does what I ask it do and doesn't complain. I know I sounds like 'that guy', but I would go look at John Deere and Kubota and then probably buy my CNH anyway. That said, I don't think you can go wrong.

I move round bales with mine. Anything in the 45HP or better range will easily handle round bales. Hell, we've moved them with 35HP tractors, but I suggest making sure your rear tires are ballasted. That's the issue...weight.

I personally disagree with the 'closest dealer' idea. How about buying a machine that is built well enough that you don't need a dealer enough to make it a consideration? Plus, there aren't a lot of places in this country that don't have a Kubota, Deere, or CNH dealer close ish.

Also, you should absolutely have 4wd with an FEL. Plus, if you are doing any work with ground engaging equipment, its going to be totally worth having. A FEL at 75% capacity, even with ballasted tires, will get a little light in the ass end. The 4wd will solve any issues with that. There is just no reason whatsoever to forgo 4wd on a utility tractor like you are looking for.

https://smallfarminnovations.com/manufacturers/

4WD, never look back. And especially if running a FEL, for both the power to load the bucket, and for the traction to pull away. Modern tractors have a high HP-to-weight ratio, so the challenge is getting that power to the ground.

For a 60 acre operation, even a 40HP unit would typically do what's needed, my 38HP Kubota has a 1600lb FEL rating, and due to the external cylinders, a 3000lb 3-point rating. The little tractor that could....18 years old, and only repair has been the front wheel bearings and seals, as it does seem Kubota didn't quite engineer it for the frequent max FEL loads.

Anecdotal, but my neighbor's 60HP New Holland, 2WD, w/FEL, has been stuck a couple of times, rescued by my Kubota. Quite sure if 4WD, my phone would not have rang....

I have a T35. 33 HP, 4WD. Does everything OP is looking for.

If you go 50 +/- hp make sure to get ballast in the rear of the tractor. I had a 50 hp Kubota, loved the tractor on 20 acres. HATED it when we moved to the farm (1,300 acres). Could only carry a bale on the FEL if you had one on the back. Fuel economy was terrible for real work, screen in front of the radiator plugged way too easily. I traded it for an older JD 4430 and have never regretted it since. I use the 4430 to rake and bale hay run a 12' shredder and maintain roads and such. We use it all winter long to feed hay via a bale unroller (best investment we've made in the last 5 years).

coolerguy12 said:

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Respectfully disagree. My 55HP would move them no problem. I have stacked them in 3 high pyramids with my friend's 42 HP John Deere.

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I guess the bales we make around here might heavier. A 50 hp machine isn't stacking them 3 high, and needs extra ballast to keep the back end on the ground.

Go watch Tractor Mike on YouTube before buying anything. His videos are full of information for new tractor buyers

Kubota 4wd. FEL

I have a 44 HP John Deere. New in 2020. I also move round bales and I wish I had a bigger tractor. I have weights on the front of mine but my front tires have very little weight on them when hauling a round bale and I have popped some knarly wheelies when first taking off with the round bale attached. I do not have a front end loader and so that would obviously help the situation.

I have a JD 5055e for a 50 acre property. That size seems to work. I will say that if you buy new JD, you are near the year end. Their year ends in October, so that is the best time for a deal.

Mas89 said:

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I would stay away from the 4 wheel drive unless they plan on needing it. In that area, maybe only needed to feed round bales if it was real muddy but it's kinda hilly there so would depend on their area. The front hubs leaking oil around the seals and bearing/ kingpin issues are a problem as these tractors age. Much less maintenance and problems with a 2 wheel drive tractor. And they handle better with smoother front end loader operation.

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Disagree, would never tell somebody to stay away from 4wd. It is handy to have, will make a 50hp pull like a 60hp and overall is well worth the cost.

SquirrellyDan said:

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My folks are looking to buy a tractor and shredder. They live on about 60 acres near Chappel Hill. I'm trying to help them out, but honestly have no idea what I'm doing. They're pretty sure they want something around 50hp. Will be used to move round bales, shred (not the whole place, just spot shredding and around the house). They want a front end loader.

Some questions:
1. What brands are best value? I realize this is likely a personal opinion but they've looked at John Deere, Kubota, and New Holland and will be going into Houston to look at Mahindras.

2. Is it worth it to get 4wd for what they'd be using it for? I'm sure it will help with occasional tree removal, stump pulling, etc.

3. Would you recommend something larger or smaller than 50hp?

4. Do different dealerships advertise different prices or is it all pretty much set? Do they negotiate at all or can you negotiate on equipment?

Thanks a bunch for any advice.

---

50HP is, in most cases, sufficient for what you're describing, but make sure you're checking all the specs on the loader.

you CAN pick up round bales with some tractors less than 50 HP, but it can get dicey on uneven terrain. you are really looking at two things.

Tractor weight
FEL lift capacity

an FEL that can lift the moon is of no use on a light tractor unless you add ballast.


WC Tractor sells both Kubota and NH in Brenham and in Navasota
J5 sells Mahindra in Navasota
United Sells JD in Navasota
Krenk sells Kioti in Brenham

All are a reasonable distance from Chappell Hill

I shopped them all and settled on a 50kp from J5 comparable specs on a JD or Kubota were a 12-20% premium. I have a buddy with a brand new NH that has spent more time in the shop than on the job.

Your folks are in CH, where are you?

also... added expense of 4WD is worth it IMO. We are on heavy clay. Chappell Hill could have any number of soil types.

When you NEED it, you'll wish you had it. Also, considerable premium at re-sale if you ever move up or down in size.

cavscout96 said:

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SquirrellyDan said:

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My folks are looking to buy a tractor and shredder. They live on about 60 acres near Chappel Hill. I'm trying to help them out, but honestly have no idea what I'm doing. They're pretty sure they want something around 50hp. Will be used to move round bales, shred (not the whole place, just spot shredding and around the house). They want a front end loader.

Some questions:
1. What brands are best value? I realize this is likely a personal opinion but they've looked at John Deere, Kubota, and New Holland and will be going into Houston to look at Mahindras.

2. Is it worth it to get 4wd for what they'd be using it for? I'm sure it will help with occasional tree removal, stump pulling, etc.

3. Would you recommend something larger or smaller than 50hp?

4. Do different dealerships advertise different prices or is it all pretty much set? Do they negotiate at all or can you negotiate on equipment?

Thanks a bunch for any advice.

---

50HP is, in most cases, sufficient for what you're describing, but make sure you're checking all the specs on the loader.

you CAN pick up round bales with some tractors less than 50 HP, but it can get dicey on uneven terrain. you are really looking at two things.

Tractor weight
FEL lift capacity

an FEL that can lift the moon is of no use on a light tractor unless you add ballast.


WC Tractor sells both Kubota and NH in Brenham and in Navasota
J5 sells Mahindra in Navasota
United Sells JD in Navasota
Krenk sells Kioti in Brenham

All are a reasonable distance from Chappell Hill

I shopped them all and settled on a 50kp from J5 comparable specs on a JD or Kubota were a 12-20% premium. I have a buddy with a brand new NH that has spent more time in the shop than on the job.

Your folks are in CH, where are you?

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I live out near San Antonio. Thanks for all the information, I'm going to advise them to make sure and take a look at Mahindra in Navasota.

cavscout96 said:

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SquirrellyDan said:

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My folks are looking to buy a tractor and shredder. They live on about 60 acres near Chappel Hill. I'm trying to help them out, but honestly have no idea what I'm doing. They're pretty sure they want something around 50hp. Will be used to move round bales, shred (not the whole place, just spot shredding and around the house). They want a front end loader.

Some questions:
1. What brands are best value? I realize this is likely a personal opinion but they've looked at John Deere, Kubota, and New Holland and will be going into Houston to look at Mahindras.

2. Is it worth it to get 4wd for what they'd be using it for? I'm sure it will help with occasional tree removal, stump pulling, etc.

3. Would you recommend something larger or smaller than 50hp?

4. Do different dealerships advertise different prices or is it all pretty much set? Do they negotiate at all or can you negotiate on equipment?

Thanks a bunch for any advice.

---

50HP is, in most cases, sufficient for what you're describing, but make sure you're checking all the specs on the loader.

you CAN pick up round bales with some tractors less than 50 HP, but it can get dicey on uneven terrain. you are really looking at two things.

Tractor weight
FEL lift capacity

an FEL that can lift the moon is of no use on a light tractor unless you add ballast.


WC Tractor sells both Kubota and NH in Brenham and in Navasota
J5 sells Mahindra in Navasota
United Sells JD in Navasota
Krenk sells Kioti in Brenham

All are a reasonable distance from Chappell Hill

I shopped them all and settled on a 50kp from J5 comparable specs on a JD or Kubota were a 12-20% premium. I have a buddy with a brand new NH that has spent more time in the shop than on the job.

Your folks are in CH, where are you?

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Excuse my ignorance, is the J5 tractor a Mahindra?

J5 is the Dealer.

www.j5tractors.com

https://www.tractorhouse.com/listing/for-sale/212244039/2021-john-deere-5075e-40-hp-to-99-hp-tractors

That would be a good one.

yes

You have had lots of good advice, but I would add to consider if you want a cab or not. I have cab for the first time, and I wish I would have gone that route sooner. It makes shredding so much nicer. I also like stacking hay with it. It is certainly nicer in the winter when it is time to feed.

Here are 3 cab 5055e with 12F/12R PowrReverser transmissions

https://www.unitedagandturf.com/used-equipment/utility-tractors/john-deere-5055e-e696005/
https://www.unitedagandturf.com/used-equipment/utility-tractors/john-deere-5055e-e689476/
https://www.unitedagandturf.com/used-equipment/utility-tractors/john-deere-5055e-e673940/

Have 3 of the 4 wheel drive mfwd currently and have had problems with front hubs on all 3 over the years. Have two rear wheel drive that are so much cheaper to buy and operate. But if someone needs the 4 wheel drive like we do for feeding round bales in the mud, or pulling a heavy disk, then sure the 4 wheel drive is necessary.
I usually leave them parked when not specifically needed- like cutting, raking, and baling hay on dry ground.

Down time and repairs are big expenses.

GrimesCoAg95 said:

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You have had lots of good advice, but I would add to consider if you want a cab or not. I have cab for the first time, and I wish I would have gone that route sooner. It makes shredding so much nicer. I also like stacking hay with it. It is certainly nicer in the winter when it is time to feed.

Here are 3 cab 5055e with 12F/12R PowrReverser transmissions

https://www.unitedagandturf.com/used-equipment/utility-tractors/john-deere-5055e-e696005/
https://www.unitedagandturf.com/used-equipment/utility-tractors/john-deere-5055e-e689476/
https://www.unitedagandturf.com/used-equipment/utility-tractors/john-deere-5055e-e673940/

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Cabs aren't cheap, but there were a couple days this summer I sure wished I had one!

Eh, cab has its own complications many don't account for. It also adds a ton of stuff that can/will break on you. A/C on a Kubota just cost us $2k. Tractor is basically unusable without it because the cab heats up so much.

Makes work under trees and buildings more difficult. Barn entrances need to be the right height. Giving directions while doing FEL work is more difficult than just talking to the person on the ground.

If your running an operation with multiple hours of work at a time, sure get a tractor with a cab. But when working when communication is key, the open cab is very helpful.

And if the usage is low it will save real money.

Get fifth hydraulic connection on front of FEL controlled from FEL joystick.
Definitely get a grapple if they have trees- for picking up limbs and cleanup.

fightingfarmer09 said:

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Eh, cab has its own complications many don't account for. It also adds a ton of stuff that can/will break on you. A/C on a Kubota just cost us $2k. Tractor is basically unusable without it because the cab heats up so much.

Makes work under trees and buildings more difficult. Barn entrances need to be the right height. Giving directions while doing FEL work is more difficult than just talking to the person on the ground.

If your running an operation with multiple hours of work at a time, sure get a tractor with a cab. But when working when communication is key, the open cab is very helpful.

And if the usage is low it will save real money.

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To me the question is a cab is how much mowing will you be doing. Working on a farm in high school and college we did almost no mowing. It was all fence work with the auger and FEL, trimming trees, loading/unloading trailers, etc. lots of two man operations using the FEL and communication was key. When I was looking for a tractor I didn't want a cab but the one I found had one and it was too good a deal to pass up. My tractor is used over 50% of the time for mowing and it is awesome. My wife and father in law have done way more mowing than I have and I guarantee you that would not be the case on an open air tractor. It's also nice to have the kids contained in the tractor with no risk of falling off.

The cab is a pain when I'm working around trees, trimming branches, or doing FEL work with a helper. Communication and sight lines are worse and it's harder to jump on and off to throw something in the bucket, switch attachments, or hook a chain up. Also had my AC belt break and the tractor was nearly unusable in the sun during the summer while I ordered a new belt.

Lots of good advice on this thread. Your choice depends heavily on what your planned use is for the tractor. I have both an open station and a cab tractor. They each have areas where they are better. The cab can be both a blessing and a curse but I still use it the most. Just cleaner and more comfortable work environment. My cab tractor is a 85HP Mahindra . I was a bit hesitant to buy that brand but I can now say that it is a beast and is heavier and outworks any Kubota of similar HP. It is a 2017 model so I have had some time with it. It is also 4WD. It just works when I need it.
That said, there is lots of good advice on this thread. Good luck in your search