I have a MX6000. I looked at the specs for the MX4700 and they are similar to my tractor but slightly different. The major difference in the older MX tractors is they have the LA844 loader and the newer models have the LA1065 loaders, which are quite a bit heavier with more lift capacity. Now, compared to the L4701, the MX is generally more robust with a category 1/2 hitch and the L series has the category 1 hitch. They have a slightly longer/wider wheelbase and are heavier with larger diameter front wheels, so they are very stable machines. Depending on your intended usage it’s a significant step up in capability and the category 2 hitch allows for using heavier duty 3ph implements. Both the MX and the L4701 tractors are basic no frills dependable machines. A MX4700 with only 170 hours is a nice find indeed if it’s in good condition.
X2 on the above based on my research of the MX series. No worries on the low hours, for some folks, that’s all the need they had. I’d like to think it’s the original owner? If so, they should have maintenance records, which are likely a few engine oil change's and maybe an HST oil and filter change, just based on age.
You didn’t mention price on this unit, so I can’t really give you an overall opinion between the two units you’ve mentioned herein. I’m presuming there’s about a $10k or more delta, in favor of the MX. If so, the MX might be the one. For me, if it was only a $5k delta, I’d make a refundable deposit (better define that in writing) on the L4701 to get the guy to hold it until the snow melts.
Edit. You mentioned the price as $15k while I was typing. Yup, I agree with your logic. Go with the MX and outfit it for $4-5k and you’ve saved about $8k plus the cost of transportation of the L.
Happy tractoring.
