Visibility to the tractor’s loader has been improved and controls have been repositioned to further enhance operator comfort and reduce fatigue.

The four updated models are the 5045E, 5055E, 5065E and 5075E Utility Tractors, ranging from 50- to 73-engine horsepower. There are 2WD, MFWD, open operator station and cab versions to choose from. Each is powered by a 3-cylinder, turbocharged John Deere PowerTechTM diesel engine.

“New 5E Series tractors are sure to become the go-to chore and loader tractors for large property owners, and non-commercial ag customers. One reason is the improved visibility from the tractor seat, as the hoods on the new tractors were lowered 3.5 inches and are 4 inches narrower than previous models,” says John Deere product marketing manager, Nick Weinrich. “Whether you’re stacking bales, pushing snow, or moving in an out of a barn, having a lower profile and good visibility from the tractor seat while you work is paramount.”

To help reduce operator fatigue, many tractor controls were relocated. “We moved the hand throttle 12 inches closer to the operator seat and repositioned the joystick to provide 20 percent more legroom than previous models,” Weinrich said. “In addition, John Deere added a thicker seat and taller seatback to provide operators all-day comfort. The operator station was also widened 20 percent to create more foot room and the tractor platform is flatter than previous models. This makes it easier to climb on and off of the tractor and reduces operator fatigue.”

“We improved the productivity and value of our 5E Series Tractors so they are now even easier to own and operate. The combination of new features, along with a 5-year powertrain warranty, provides tremendous value to all customers who are looking for a new utility tractor,” Weinrich said.

For more information about new 5E Series Tractors contact your local John Deere dealer or visit JohnDeere.com/ag.

While the main advancements in farm equipment for the past decade have focused on developing precision agriculture, engineers haven’t been sitting idly, expecting technology to do all the work. Equipment manufacturers around the world are experimenting with ways for electrical equipment to improve tractors and implements.

“Electrification is coming – if we can figure out how to keep the price down,” says Tim Stombaugh, an Extension professor of machine systems automation engineering at the University of Kentucky. “It is more efficient, is quieter, requires less maintenance, is more controllable, and is potentially safer and lighter.”

There are two main experiments being conducted on how electric power can be used: one for diesel-electric tractors and one for battery-powered tractors.

DIESEL-ELECTRIC TRACTORS

Back in 2001, Fendt and AGCO began intensively researching how electric power generated by an electric tractor could be transferred to an implement. In 2013, the results of that work went on display for the first time when Fendt presented the X Concept tractor at Agritechnica.

The X Concept is powered by AGCO’s Power four-cylinder diesel engine. The compact design of the engine allows the tractor to accommodate the necessary components for the electrical technology, including a high-performance alternator, power electronics, wiring, and the specialist heat exchanger.

The electrical systems within the X Concept – dubbed the Powerbus – can provide up to 174 hp. to implements through a compact power socket. The system also provides power to the internal tractor, including the electrical fan drive and the coolant pumps.

To see how this prototype could work on the farm, Fendt also needed to develop a high-voltage, electrically powered implement. Two years ago, Fendt introduced another prototype: an electric-driven rotary rake called the Former 12555 X.

“We are confident that electricity will be used more and more in agriculture. This is one example from Fendt,” says Stephan Bea, head of sales engineering at Fendt.

Each rotor on the rake has an integral electric drive powered by the Fendt X Concept tractor. The torque motors are integrated into each rake socket, eliminating the need for separate housing, gearbox, or bearings.

Because each motor is regulated independently, you are able to vary the speed of each rotor. For example, you can turn the front rotors more quickly than the rear. The speed of the rotors is also no longer dependent on the engine or the ground speed of the tractor. This makes it easier to react quickly to different crop situations.

“The electric-powered rake is working well under various conditions, and it passed several field tests during the past two years,” says Benno Pichlmaier, AGCO.

In addition to working on its own implements, AGCO is also working with external partners in other key areas, including hay, seeding, plant protection, and harvesting.

Because there is a low demand for this technology, Pichlmaier admits there is no need for a quick launch. “Current mechanical and hydraulic systems will remain in place for a long time,” he says.

However, he does believe that electric power systems will play more and more of a significant role. “We are convinced that electric power will be used for special tractor-implement combinations in the future,” says Pichlmaier.

BATTERY-POWERED TRACTORS

AGCO isn’t the only major OEM working on ways that electric power can be used in farm equipment. At the end of 2016, John Deere introduced a prototype for an all-electric tractor. Nicknamed SESAM (sustainable energy supply for agricultural machinery), the battery-powered tractor has all the functions and features of a standard tractor, yet it offers the benefits of electrification.

The tractor is modeled on John Deere’s 6R series tractors. Two electric motors operate an adapted DirectDrive transmission, producing 174 hp. of continuous power and peak power of 400 hp. One motor powers the drivetrain; the other motor is used for the PTO and auxiliaries. If necessary, both motors are linked to supply full power for driving or for PTO and hydraulic work.

One battery charge lasts up to four operating hours in mixed-mode operations or for 34 miles of travel. The battery takes three hours to charge and can be charged up to 3,100 times.

When the machine is at idle, there are no energy losses. The SESAM tractor is emissions-free and runs at a lower noise level than traditional tractors.

According to a news release from John Deere, the tractor is an elementary component of John Deere’s vision of future energy autonomous farms. “The John Deere all-electric tractor was designed and created to help evaluate the feasibility of such a tractor and to demonstrate John Deere’s advanced, innovative expertise and capabilities in producing a battery-powered tractor for agricultural use,” the release stated.

FUTURE APPLICATIONS

For fieldwork applications, Stombaugh believes that Fendt’s electrification solution will be practical much earlier than the battery solution.

“Longevity is the primary limitation for operating tractors with battery technology,” he says. “The tractors aren’t getting the hours typically needed to operate for a full day, so you’d have to stop and recharge.”

However, battery technology is an area that is continually improving, so new batteries that are smaller and last longer could make battery-powered tractors more feasible, points out Stombaugh.

In addition, battery-powered tractors could work well in other ag applications, such as for a chore tractor that is only used a few hours a day to feed livestock.

“The problem is the cost. That’s the trade-off,” he says. “There are applications where battery technology may be better suited, but are you willing to spend money on it?”

Bringing the price point down will be one of the main limiting factors for introducing more electric equipment into farming.

“The electric motors used have to be specialized for ag applications, so they have to be able to take dust and tolerate a wide range of temperatures,” notes Stombaugh. “Developing that technology and making it available at a larger volume with a price point that makes sense will take a while to mature.”

Construction Attachments has their version of John Deere Compact Pallet Forks. Designed for the John Deere CX Compact tractor loaders with the John Deere Hookup. Front end loaders with special JD quick attach.

The GB70 Tractor Garden Bedder features 14″ Discs, with Sealed Ball Bearings The Tool Bar is 3/8″ thick steel and 5″ tall, with a 2 1/4″ wrap around the bottom for strength. It has a standard category 1, 3 point clevis type hitch and is Quick Hitch and John Deere™ i-Match™ compatible.

Wicked Root Grapple for Large Utility Tractors is built incredibly strong and designed for maximize efficiency and productivity. Talk about an attachment that grabs your attention. The Wicked Root Grapple can grab just about anything.

The John Deere 500 pallet forks offer great visibility and amazing strength. The tines are available are in 42 or 48 inch lengths, and in 4,400 or 6,600 lift capacity at 20 inches from the bend. Crafted with strong tubular, laser cut frame.

Residential Zero Turn Mowers

While some might not considered zero turn mowers a tractor I figured I’d do a wright up on them anyway. Oddly enough both Kubota and John Deere have released new Zero Turn mowers in the past few months. If you have ever used a zero turn mower you know that there is nothing like when it comes to mowing. Honestly I think zero mowers can save you about half the time compared to traditional mowers so that’s gas and time which in the long run makes the higher price worth paying.

John Deere has added a new line of Z300 series under $3,500 which is a moderate to high price for a mower in my opinion. You got the Z335M, Z345M, Z345R, Z355R and Z375R each that preform well when mowing at higher speeds. John Deere claims that the improvements on the step-up model additions to the ZTrak Z300 series will improve the cutting quality, easy-to-use ergonomic controls, enhanced engine performance, and features aimed at upgrading comfort.

The new Z300 series mower decks will be available in 42 inch, 48 inch, and 54 inch cutting widths and will provide better grass dispersion and improved cutting quality at faster speeds than previous models. They will all use the Accel Deep mower deck that was introduced in 2016 which is compatible with John Deere’s MulchControl kit that allows operators to quickly switch between side discharge and mulching with the flip of a lever. For a smoother ride some models offer a wider tire option and a foot operated deck lift option that allows for quick and efficient engagement of the deck without having to get off the mower.

As far as horsepower the new ZTrak Z300 series got an upgrade in engine performance ranging from 20-25 HP depending on the model. There was also a seat upgrade for enhanced comfort and improved ergonomics. The new seat no longer requires a tool for adjustments which makes it easier to adjust when needed.

Commercial Zero Turn Mowers

As John Deere’s new zero turn mowers are geared towards the residential user Kubota’s new zero turn mowers are geared a bit more towards the commercial users. Kubota recently released a new Z400 series of their zero turn mowers. Humm sounds similar to the John Deere’s Z300 however the number/names may look, Kubota did release their version a few months earlier not it matters because with this line up Kubota is focusing more on the commercial crowd.

The new Kubota Z400 line up consists of the Z411KW-48, Z421KW-54, and the Z421KWT-60 that are all powered by a Kawasaki FS gasoline engine. As you can see the widths of each by the last two digits at the end of their names and range from 48 to 60 inches wide which is perfect for landscapers. The new series of Kubota zero turn mowers is adding a new modern design and class leading speed along with performance and durability or commercial grade mowers.

A commercial grade mower with all the bells and whistles at an affordable price. The new Z400 series uses Hydro Gear’s commercial ZT3400 transmission to provide the optimum combination of speed and torque. The Z421-KWT-60 and the Z421KW-54 mowers use a 24 horsepower Kawaski FS gasoline engine with all modeling having a 6.8 gallon fuel tank. Large, low-profile tires help provide superior cutting performance through dense turf and across hilly terrain according to Kubota.

Each of the mowers in the Z400-Series is designed with a thick and durable tubular steel frame for strong and stable operation. Each model features a 10 gauge, five-inch deep, fully-welded deck for superior grass-cutting performance. And the Kubota K-Left deck height adjustment system allows for quick, easy cutting height changes with the turn of a dial and press of a petal.

Do you own a Zero Turn?

Do you own a zero turn mower and if so how about sharing your thoughts. Let us know your make and model, how long you’ve had it and how has it stood up to the test of time! Compare it to a traditional mower if you’ve owned both.

It seems Root Rakes are becoming ever so popular! As of January 26th, 2017 John Deere introduced their new line of Root Rakes that are designed to fit the John Deere G & E series skid steers, their compact tract loaders, and the K series compact wheel loaders.

These John Deere root rakes are great for a number of jobs such as digging up root of course, moving material, clearing all sorts of debris, loading logs just to name a few. One of the benefits of a root rake over a traditional bucket is that they are made so that loose dirt, small rocks and such can be sifted through creating a lighter load and minimal landscape disturbance. This is true for all root rakes not just John Deere rakes. Back to the John Deere rakes, these new root rakes are built with alloy-steel construction, replaceable pin-on teeth and zinc-plated, pivot pins with protected Zerks, these attachments can ruggedly resist impact that any ground materials provide. Another key feature is a weld-on “D” ring that expands the list of job site tasks these root rakes can tackle, such as pulling brush in forestry applications or scrap on a job site.

The new root rakes are in John Deere’s Worksite Pro attachment line and are avilable in 72 inch (RR72), 78 inch (RR78), and 84 inch (RR84) widths. The height and width of the root rakes also help shield the fronts of the machines, protecting against damage from large piles of brush or jagged scrap.

With the universal, self-cleaning Quik-Tatch™ easy attachment system found on all John Deere skid steers, CTLs and compact wheel loaders, the machine can easily add and remove the root rake in no time. The new attachment is also backed by John Deere parts, service and warranty coverage.

Okay so there you have it the new Root Rakes from John Deere. Now if you are a big John Deere fan and only buy into the John Deere brand then have at it, however if you are looking for an alternative that is just as good if not better than you might want to check out our Bradco Skid Steer Root Rake & Grapple or our Construction Attachments XTreme Duty Root Grapple 1RG!

Bradco Skid Steer Root Rake & Grapple

Like the John Deere rakes these are available in 72″, 78″, and 84″ sizes. The Bradco Skid Steer Root Rake has a universal skid steer quick attach, upper push-bar, aggressive profiles with H&L-230 style teeth, zinc plated, greasable, pivot pins with protected grease zerks, and replaceable hardened steel bushings. Weld on D-ring for numerous applications and a 2 year limited warranty! To learn more about this Skid Steer Root Rake & Grapple check out the product page over at EverythingAttachments.com

Construction Attachments XTreme Duty Root Grapple 1RG

This extreme grapple comes in 66″, 73″ 78″, & 84″ with the number of tines ranging from 7 to 10 depending on the size grapple. A universal skid steer quick attach mount for easy mounting and dismounting. 3000 lbs of clamping force at 2000 psi and a 43″ grapple opening to get those larger objects. The bottom tines are crafted out of 1/2″ A572 steel and the grapple tines are made of 3/4″ A36 steel. To learn more about this Skid Steer Root Rake & Grapple check out the product page over at EverythingAttachments.com

Kubota BX vs John Deere Sub Compact Tractors. Is it a lawnmower? Is it a tractor? Is it a transformer? In the world of sub compact tractors the answer is yes to all three questions as these sub compact tractors are becoming super popular thanks to their versatility and usefulness. Okay so maybe it’s not a transformer as the walking talking robots in disguise but when you can take a lawnmower and add a few attachments you basically transform it into a tractor. If we were to be honest attachments is what really makes a tractor a tractor otherwise you would just have a 4 wheel vehicle.

Difference Between Compact and Sub Compact Tractors

I know this article is about the Kubota BX vs John Deere Sub Compact Tractors but first lets do a quick fact check on the differences between compact and sub compact tractors. For the most part size, horsepower, and attachments are the main differences. Sub Compact tractors generally use a two to three cylinder engine ranging between 15-25 horsepower while compact tractors use a three to four cylinder engine ranging between 25 to 45 horsepower. Both the Compact and Sub Compact tractors are great for garden and utility tractors. Sub Compact tractors have a smaller frame and less ground clearance for the purpose of having a mowing deck built underneath where as a compact tractor would need a pull behind mowing attachment.

Of course cost is another factoring difference between the Compact and Sub Compact tractors but that’s to be expected. I would have to say one of the biggest differences between Sub Compact tractors and Compact tractors is the range of attachments. Compact tractors use a category 1 or 2 style hitch while Sub Compact tractors use a less common category 0 hitch. Sub Compacts are becoming more and more popular and attachments are becoming easier to find but will still always be limited by there size.

Kubota BX Sub Compact Tractor

According to Kubota’s site the Kubota BX25d-1 features a compact body that has an similar length to a standard garden tractor. It’s easy to drive and works smoothly while being gentle to the turf. Diesel engines that are rugged and built by Kubota exclusively for these tractors with 18 to 25.5 horsepower. Horsepower plus traction makes a good combo and the Kubota BX series of tractors has just that with it’s rugged sturdy 4 Wheel Drive power. Work more refill less because with that exclusive diesel engine comes a large 6.6 gallon fuel tank.

Lets talk about comfort. The Kubota BX tractors has a deluxe high-back reclining seat with dual armrests and soft cushioning to support the back and legs. The deluxe seat can also be adjusted to move forward and backward to allow for better leg room. On the BX25D the seat is also reversible and perfect for back-hoeing. With a full flat deck layout style and the brake on the left side leaves plenty of leg room. Even the steering wheel position has been re-positioned to provide any operator with better steering and control and of course they didn’t leave out the hydraulic power steering, cruise control (optional on BX1870), an easy to read meter panel with LCD display.

Factory standard Bright Halogen Headlights that provide clear and bright illumination for working in the dark. Optional work lights mounted on the ROPS  which is easy to reach from the seat. These lights add more light for those who like to work before sun rise or after sun down. They can also be easily reversed to light up rear. A few other features includes the foldable ROPS, delux lever guide, a 12 volt DC outlet, are among some. However as mentioned earlier a tractor is only as good as it’s attachments and the Kubota BX tractors are equipped with a sturdy, hydraulically controlled Category I 3-point hitch that allows you to attach a wide variety of attachments.

John Deere Sub Compact Tractor

Like the Kubota BX the John Deere 1025 Series has a compact body and easy to maneuver. Running a 23.9 hp three-cylinder diesel engine that delivers responsive, efficient horsepower. Johen Deere’s trademark Twin Touch pedal controls and hydro-static transmissions for precise speed control and smooth directional changes. The John Deere sub compact tractors are also 4WD with power steering which gives them excellent maneuverability.

The John Deere H120 loader which is similar to the Kubota BX25d-1 has a lift capacity of 955 lbs and integrated Quik-Park mounting system. A max lift height up to 71.2 in makes stacking much easier. The Quik-Park loader mounting system is another trademark by John Deere that is designed to make it easier to mount and remove attachments without the need of tools.

AutoConnect Deck is also a John Deere trademark. It’s a system that was created to make attaching the mowing deck simple and easy by driving over the deck ramps and after you hear it click in just lock the gauge wheel and you’re done.

A few other features on the John Deere sub compact tractors are the front weight brackets that allow you to add more weight to add stability when needed, forward lighting kit that includes 2 extra lights that mount above the warning lights on the ROPS. These are not reversible like the Kubota lights for real lighting however John Deere does offer a single rear work light.

Pros & Cons

On John Deere’s website they allow customers to review their products and give some pros and cons so figured I’d list a few of them here.

John Deere Pros

• very compact
• ease of use
• So many options
• easy to trailer
• attachment changes are easy
• small size with power
• affordable
• more powerful than expected
• good loader tractor
• great little backhoe
• nice handling good ride

John Deere Cons

• very poor mower deck
• smokes black
• no anti scalp rollers on deck
• trade in value
• backhoe controls are touchy and take practice
• tires
• seat needs work

Kubota BX Pros

• need some feed back

Kubota BX Cons

• need some feed back

Which Tractor Do You Think Is Better!

Okay so as far as sub compact tractors go which do you think is better?  How about leaving a comment below and let us know which you own or which one you would rather own. As you can see we need some feed back on the Kubota BX Sub Compact tractors so if you have any please share your thoughts. Tell us why you like one over the other.

For all those Kubota BX Tractor owners who would love to have a grapple attachment, you are in luck! Everything Attachments has just what you are looking for a brand new Wicked Root Rake Grapple designed perfectly for Kubota BX Tractors! It’s the ultimate lightweight grapple that is ultra light at 150 pounds yet super strong frame, crafted out of AR400 steel allowing for high durability and build to last.

The Kubota Wicked root rake grapple fits the the Kubota BX pin configuration for LA203, LA210, LA240, LA243, just to name a few. The grapple teeth or tines are precision cut with a high powered laser out of AR400 steel and gives it that extra gripping power. The tines are spaced at 9 1/4″ with the frame being 40″ wide and the lid opens up to 30″. The hydraulic cylinders are 2″ bore x 4″ stroke. The lid hinges are greasable to help the longevity and also included are the folding stands that allows for easy hookup and storage. The stands are neatly hidden and tucked away behind the end tines and use a folding mechanism to deploy them.  This keeps them out of the way while the grapple is in use to prevent them from being damaged.

Order Today at Click Here

Universal Quick Hitch and John Deere Hitch coming in a 54″ wide version soon!

It appears John Deere has 2 new attachments they introduced last month, the 2230 Field Cultivator and the 2330 Mulch Finisher. The goal of these two new implements is to help speed up the preparation process for seedbeds. These are next gen secondary tillage attachments designed to work smarter  and more effective with excessive amounts of leftover crops at a speed up to 10 miles per hour! To meet producers needs John Deere extended the working widths and operating speeds along with a number of finishing attachments for those that like that perfect look.

The 2330 Mulch Finisher comes in 9 different sizes to a max of 56.25 feet. With that much width and speed completing those large fields will take no time.

As for the John Deere 2230 Field Cultivator they redesigned the frame with special tires that are stubble resistant and no maintenance points. With 6 inch split in the middle shank spacing and 200 pounds of trip force the John Deere 2230 Cultivator give an even and consistent ground mixture and residue flow.  Choose between a three section or five section configuration in a good number of sizes that start at 23.5 feet and max out at 60.5 feet in width if you have easy rolling or level ground. However for more hilly type environment they have options ranging from 25.5 feet to 69.5. Thanks to the width, speed, and power of this utility producers can cover an area up to 217 more acres in a 10 hour day compared to previous models.

A few other features that both of these new attachments are equipped with is the John Deere ProFinish Leveling System and 6 rear harrow options. For that easy operation of raising and lowering of the baskets there is the Hydraulically adjustable flat bar or round bar rolling baskets. The exclusive TruSet Tillage technology that allows for more precise depth and down pressure control. With all these new features the driver never needs to leave the cab till the job is done.

For more information on these attachments please check out John Deere’s site.