Key Differences Between John Deere 5100E & Kubota M9960 Compact Tractors

John Deere 5100E			Kubota M9960
4 Cylinder Engine(276 cubic inches, 4.5 Liter)	✓		4 Cylinder Engine(230 cubic inches, 3.769 Liter)
Wet Sleeved Lined Cylinders	✓		Dry Sleeved Cylinders
90 Amp Alternator	✓		60 Amp Alternator
Standard Valve System		✓	Multi Valve System
Fixed Cab A/C Condenser		✓	Slide Out A/C Condenser
12/12 Power Reverser Transmission	✓		8 X 8 Sync Shuttle Transmission
3,214 lb 3 point lift capacity		✓	4,630 lb 3 point lift capacity
22.5 gpm/2900 psi	—	—	23.1 gpm/2800 psi
U Joint Design Front 4WD Axle		✓	Bevel Piston Front 4WD Axle
7,937 lb Tractor Weight	✓		5,585 Tractor Weight

One issue that has been heavily debated is the productivity and performance of John Deere’s 5 Series Tractors, compared to Kubotas M9960 Tractor. The fact is, there are many similarities between the two, but there are also a few key differences. Here is a guide to some of the main differences between the John Deere 5100E & the Kubota M9960 Tractors.

Engine Capacity

The John Deere 5100E contains a 4-Cylinder Engine with a displacement of 276 cubic inches, and a rating of 100 Horsepower at 2400 RPM, while the Kubota’s 4-Cylinder only has a displacement of 230 cubic inches, and a Horsepower rating of 104 at 2600 RPM. More torque means improved production and increased power for implements. Along with engine power, John Deere rates horsepower at a lower rpm. Less RPM allows the engine to move at a slower rate, which means less maintenance, noise, and fuel.

Cylinders

The 5100E contains wet sleeved cylinders, while the Kubota utilizes dry sleeved cylinders. Wet sleeved cylinders stay cooler than dry sleeved cylinders, which means increased engine performance in extreme conditions, and increased engine life.

Alternator

The John Deere is complete with a 90 Amp alternator, while the Kubota’s Alternator is only a 60 Amp Alternator. The additional amperage found in the 5100E makes it easier to start your tractor, especially in extreme conditions.

Valve System

The Valve System on the 5100 is a Standard Valve system, while the Kubota contains a Multi Valve System, which maximizes air intake, increases fuel economy, and power output.
Air Conditioning Condenser

With the John Deere, the A/C Condenser is fixed in the cab. On the other hand, the Kubota’s A/C Condenser slides out for easier access when you need to clean or repair your A/C Condenser.
Transmission

John Deere’s 5100E has a 12/12 Power Reverser Transmission, while the Kubota’s Transmission is an 8X8 SyncShuttle Transmission. Both models have 12 speeds, and a shuttle transmission, which makes it possible to switch directions without engaging the clutch. However, John Deere’s Power Reverser makes it easier for the user to operate and switch gears. With the 5100Es ease of use, you can steer and shift directions with one hand, while freeing the other hand to operate a loader or other implements.

Axle

The John Deere 5100E has a U Joint Front 4WD axle, while the Kubota has a Bevel Piston Front 4WD Axle. The beveled design of the Kubota’s axle makes it possible to maintain constant power at all turning angles. In the 5100Es U Joint Design, some hydraulic power is lost when making sharp turns and angles.

3 Point Lift Capacity

Although the 5100E and the M9960 both offer the same amount of Hydraulic Flow, the Kubota’s lift capacity is over 1000 pounds more than the John Deere’s lift capacity.

Tractor Weight

When it comes to Utility Tractors, there is nothing more important than weight. The simple fact is, heavier tractors are more capable of lifting heavier weights. No matter the 3 point lift capacity, the tractor must have enough weight to counter the implement or material.

Overview

Although the Kubota M9960 and the John Deere 5100E are both very similar in power and productivity, there are a few components that separate the two. When it comes to deciding which tractor is best, that depends on your own specific needs. Which features are important to you? Which features are a necessity? As always, before deciding on a model, take into account your needs. You most certainly want a tractor that will best meet your demands.