Comparing John Deere’s 5E Family and Kubota’s MX Series Utility Tractors

If you’re in the market for a utility tractor, two very well known models are the John Deere 5E Family and the Kubota MX Series.  While there are many similarities between the two tractors, there are also a few key differences.  If you’re in the process of deciding which tractor will be best for you and your operation, there are a few things you have to know about each model.  If you’re still not sure which tractor will be best for you, here is a guide to help you compare a few of the key features found on the John Deere 5E and the Kubota MX.  Today, we’ll look at three elements: Performance, Ease of Use and Cost of Operation.

Performance:

• • John Deere 5E Series Tractors offer three transmission ranges, while the Kubota MX only offers two.
  • The John Deere 5E Family offers more hydraulic power.  The 3-point hitch on the John Deere 5E family can easily lift over 3,000 lbs, while the Kubota tops out at just under 2,300 lbs.
  • John Deere 5E Family Tractors also weigh 33{fef43dd3ebe491a7a0b77b2f8c85361e365cdac36b5c2305aad1e03c7b03cc05} more than the Kubota MX.  When it comes to lifting, those extra pounds are necessary!  On the Kubota, you would need to purchase ballasts in order to effectively and safely use most applications.

Ease of Use:

• • The John Deere 5E Tractor features a Power Reverser Transmission that makes loader work easier and faster.  On the other hand, not only does the Kubota not have a power reverser, but it’s also designed so that the Forward-Reverser lever is hard to reach during loader operation.
  • The John Deere 5E tractor features an 18 Gallon Fuel tank, while the Kubota MX only has a 13.5 Gallon Fuel Tank. This means that with the Deere, you can spend more time in the fields and less time at the pump.
  • The 5E family features heavy duty wet-disc brakes that require NO adjusting. On the other hand, the Kubota MX requires 5 brake adjustments within the first 500 hours alone.

Cost of Operation:

• • The John Deere 5E features a polymer hood, which means the John Deere hoods are virtually unbreakable, while the Kubota hood is composed of a thin, metal material, which is very prone to scratching, denting, and rusting.
  • On the John Deere 5E, the steering cylinder is safely protected behind the front axle.  Kubota’s steering cylinder is located in front of the axle, which increases the risk of costly repairs.
  • Tractor maintenance is also much more time-consuming on the Kubota MX. It’s oil pan is split down the middle of the driveshaft, which means that in order to change the oil, you have to remove two plugs, rather than just one.